Singapore Nanyang Polytechnic students develop a prototype robot dog for the visually impaired that reads out directions and even “barks.
What is the prototype called and how does it work?
The e-Guide Dog is equipped with laser scanners that detect when an obstacle is in the way. It can also be programmed with preset routes that will give its user directions.
The e-Guide Dog can detect and will even alert users to oncoming cyclists by playing the sound of a dog barking.
Instead of a leash, the user holds onto a handle attached to the wheeled device as it is pushed by the user.
What are the main functions of the e-Guide Dog?
The e-Guide Dog has three key functions
Navigation:
The e-Guide Dog records and replays travelling paths up to an accuracy of one metre.
It is equipped with a built-in digital compass that records paths users take. The data is provided by encoders at the e-Guide Dog’s wheel. These encoders monitor the robot’s wheel revolutions and steering angles to provide a more accurate guide for users.
Obstacle Detection:
The robot is equipped with laser scanners that detect obstacles in the way. It then navigates its user around them, preventing accidents from occurring.
Traffic Light Signal Detection:
The e-Guide Dog is also equipped with artificial intelligence that can identify when traffic light signals turn from red to green.
The robot will then alert the user when to cross the road. This detection is a plus for the e-Guide Dog as regular guide dogs are colour blind and unable to detect colour changes.
The e-Guide Dog was developed by a team of more than six NYP students across several semesters who were led by Dr Kong Wai Ming, lead specialist of the biomedical engineering and materials group at the polytechnic’s School of Engineering.
The project is backed by the Enabling Lives Initiative Grant by SG Enable, an agency that supports people with disabilities, and the Tote Board. The grant funds innovations that support persons with disabilities.
On Wednesday May 5, the project earned recognition from Dr Maliki Osman, Second Minister for Education, during the polytechnic’s graduation ceremony.
In his speech, Dr Maliki said the project was an example of what NYP stands for — “innovation and enterprise, anchored in service to those around us.”
Was there any collaboration with the blindness community during development?
During development, the team worked with Guide Dogs Singapore — the main charity in Singapore that pairs guide dogs with the visually impaired — to test the device.
Vanessa Loh, the General Manager of Guide Dogs Singapore Ltd said that the e-Guide Dog would serve as a useful mobility aid for persons with visual impairment.
Are there any other uses for this technology?
The NYP team adapted the technology behind the e-Guide Dog onto a cane, which was fitted with sensors and encoders on wheels to provide wayfinding instructions, which they showcased at an exhibition at the National Museum of Singapore last December. Currently, the technology is only limited to indoor spaces.
Now, the team is seeking to improve its robot guide dog by working with industry partners and hopefully commercialize the project.
