SESAMONET: RFID Friend for the blind

Filed in archive Implementation on February 7, 2008

Visually impaired people can really have a tough time finding their way out if they don't have any help along but RFID might emerge as their true friend in their dark lives and be a companion in their journey too. This is what is happening in Italy where an EU backed named Secure and Safe Mobility Network or SESAMONET is trying to come to the rescue of visually challenged people.

Under the pilot RFID tags have been installed on a two km stretch and around ten people which include both blind and people with vision are testing the system with the aid of customized canes which act as interrogators for the tags buried. The system transmits the directions generated to the concerned person through the earpiece worn by the tester. It warns the person in case of any obstacles so that he or she can avoid them and not cause any kind of injury to self.

If costs hurdles can be overcome this pilot can surely become a reality and make the lives of hundreds and thousands of blind people around the world a lot smoother.