Time of Flight Feedback (TOFF)

Enabling the visually impaired to feel the depth of obstacles through LIDAR technology.

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Inspiration

We wanted to create a project that would help people, and we specifically chose a target audience of blind people to assist them with object detection.

What it does

The system works by taking Lidar data, splitting it into 5 segments, and returning a depth value for each segment. It then sends the data via Bluetooth to the Raspberry Pi Pico, which controls 5 motors and applies a specific pressure on the forehead to determine how close the object is.

How we built it

We used Xcode to build the app that obtained lidar data, which was then sent via Bluetooth to the Raspberry Pi Pico. The Raspberry Pi Pico would receive the depth data from each of the 5 segments

Challenges we ran into

We had trouble sending lidar data from the iPhone to the Raspberry Pi Pico and determining a specific algorithm for how far the servo motors should move. We also needed to reset each servo motor's position.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We are proud of how we successfully combined two distinct aspects of software and hardware to create a working product.

What we learned

We learned that building in Xcode greatly limits what you can do via windows, but that Apple's ARKit is really useful.

What's next for TOFF

We plan on adding more features, such as fall detection and vibration, when something is really dangerously close.

Built With

  • micropython
  • onshape
  • pi
  • pico
  • swift
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