VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
BELAGAVI-590018, KARNATAKA
MAJOR PROJECT PHASE-1 REPORT
ON
“SMART-SHOE FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED”
Submitted by
Sahana S (1CR22EC195)
Tanusha R (1CR22EC224)
Tungashree D (1CR22EC227)
Veda D (1CR22EC235)
Under the guidance of
Dr. Sutapa Sarkar
Associate Professor
Department Of Electronics and Communication Engineering
February 2025– May 2025
Department Of Electronics and Communication Engineering
CMR INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
#132, AECS LAYOUT, IT PARK ROAD, KUNDALAHALLI, BENGALURU-560037
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify the Major Project Phase-1Report entitled “SMART-SHOE FOR
VISUALLY IMAPRIED”, prepared Ms. SAHANA S, bearing USN 1CR22EC195, Ms.
TANUSHA R, bearing USN 1CR22EC224, Ms TUNGASHREE D, bearing USN
1CR22EC227, Ms VEDA D, bearing USN 1CR22EC235 a Bonafide student of CMR
Institute of Technology, Bengaluru in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
award of Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication Engineering of
the Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi-590018 during the academic year
2024-25.
This is certified that all the corrections and suggestions indicated for Internal
Assessment have been incorporated in the report deposited in the departmental library.
The Major Project Phase-1 has been approved as it satisfies the academic requirements
prescribed for the said degree.
----------------------- -----------------------
Signature of Guide Signature of HOD
Dr. Sutapa Sarkar Dr. Pappa.M
Associate Professor Professor & HoD
Dept. of ECE, CMRIT Dept. of ECE, CMRIT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The satisfaction that accompanies the successful completion of any task would be incomplete
without mentioning the people whose proper guidance and encouragement has served as a beacon
and crowned my efforts with success. We take an opportunity to thank all the distinguished
personalities for their enormous and precious support and encouragement throughout the duration
of this seminar. We take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude and respect to CMR
Institute of Technology, Bengaluru for providing me an opportunity to present my mini project.
We have a great pleasure in expressing my deep sense of gratitude to Dr. Sanjay Jain, Principal,
CMRIT, Bangalore, for his constant encouragement. We would like to thank Dr. Pappa.M, HoD,
Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, CMRIT, Bangalore, who shared her
opinion and experience through which we received the required information crucial for the
Entrepreneurship project. We consider it a privilege and honor to express my sincere gratitude to
our guide Dr. Sutapa Sarkar, Associate Professor, Department of Electronics and Communication
Engineering, for the valuable guidance throughout the tenure of this review. We also extend my
thanks to the faculties of Electronics and Communication Engineering Department who directly
or indirectly encouraged me. Finally, we would like to thank my parents and friends for all their
moral support they have given me during the completion of this work.
Sahana S (1CR22EC195)
Tanusha R (1CR22EC224)
Tungashree D (1CR22EC227)
Veda D (1CR22EC235
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ABSTRACT
Eyes play important role in our day to day lives and are perhaps the most valuable gift we
have. This world is visible to us because we are blessed with eyesight. But there are some people
who lag this ability of visualizing these things. Due to this, they will undergo a lot of troubles
move comfortably in public places. Hence, wearable device should design for such visual impaired
people. IoT based Smart shoe system for the blind is a system made with the help of ultrasonic
sensors paired to ESP 32 Microcontroller. Internet of things is all about making physical objects
communicate with other objects or even with humans. It is an enabling technology which has a
rapid development and growth in the market. In our India there are almost 40 million blind people
among which 1.6 million are children. Blind people face great difficulty to travel independently.
They have to depend on others in many aspects of their life. The Major problem is when they walk
on the road. With a stick in hand they cannot detect every obstacle that comes in their way. The
Smart shoe design provides a long term solution for the blind to walk on roads independently. The
smart shoe will help the Blind person to reach his destination independently. It is built using IoT
Technology in which the shoe will be embedded with various sensors, Microcontroller and
buzzers. The shoe warns the user by making noise with the buzzer when he/she walks in front of
an obstacle. 285 million people are estimated to be visually impaired worldwide out of which 39
million people are blind and 246 million have low vision. This paper presents various features of
smart shoes for visually impaired using Internet of Things
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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LIST OF FIGURES
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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION:-
Visually impaired individuals often face challenges in navigating public environments safely and
independently. To address these issues, we have developed a smart wearable solution — Smart
Shoes for Visually Impaired People — integrated with IoT and mobile technologies. Unlike
traditional systems that rely solely on obstacle detection and Arduino IDE interfacing, our design
includes a mobile application (developed using MIT App Inventor) that enables live location
tracking and SOS communication with a guardian. The hardware consists of an ESP32
microcontroller, ultrasonic sensors for obstacle detection, a vibration motor, and a buzzer for real-
time feedback. Power efficiency is enhanced using piezoelectric sensors that convert footstep
pressure into electrical energy. The smart shoe empowers users with improved mobility and safety
through a blend of sensor technology and smartphone connectivity, offering both independence
and emergency assistance when needed.
Vision plays a crucial role in human perception and movement. However, millions of people
globally live with visual impairments that hinder their ability to move independently. While
conventional aids like walking canes provide some support, they have limitations in detecting
certain obstacles or offering navigational guidance in unfamiliar areas. To address these
challenges, we propose an IoT-based smart footwear system tailored for the visually impaired.
Our project, Smart Shoes for Visually Impaired People, combines embedded electronics with a
mobile application to enhance both safety and usability. The shoe is equipped with ultrasonic
sensors to detect nearby obstacles and alert the user using vibration and sound feedback.
Furthermore, a custom mobile app built using MIT App Inventor allows the user to share their live
GPS location and automatically send emergency alerts to a guardian in case of distress. This dual-
layered system ensures both real-time obstacle avoidance and location-based assistance.
Unlike previous solutions that heavily relied on the Arduino IDE for development and testing, our
approach bypasses that platform to make room for enhanced mobile integration and simpler user
interaction. Additionally, piezoelectric sensors are embedded in the shoe sole to generate energy
from footsteps, providing auxiliary power and contributing to system sustainability.
This project aims to deliver a cost-effective, user-friendly, and dependable solution to improve the
quality of life for visually impaired individuals by enabling them to walk confidently and safely in
varied environments.
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CHAPTER 2. LITERATURE SURVEY
2.1 Summary of Reviewed Research Papers/Articles
Smart shoe prototypes have been proposed, focusing mainly on obstacle detection using
ultrasonic sensors, haptic feedback, and Arduino-based systems. Some systems also explored the
use of Li-Fi, RFID, and health tracking modules.
Paper [1] by Ariba Khanam et al. proposed an assistive shoe using ultrasonic sensors and
Arduino to provide obstacle alerts via buzzer and vibrator.
Paper [2] by Ziad AbuFaraj et al. implemented tactile feedback from ultrasonic transducers
mounted on the toe cap for detecting different obstacle heights.
Paper [3] focused on Android-based wearable systems using vibrators to indicate navigation
turns.
Paper [4] proposed Li-Fi-based communication for obstacle detection with Braille feedback.
Paper [5] and others focused on app integration using GPS via Bluetooth to guide users through
vibrations or audio cues.
2.1.1 Comparative Study of Existing Approaches
Approach Sensor Used Feedback Type Communication Limitation
Paper [1] Ultrasonic Vibration + Audio None No app, no GPS
Paper [2] Ultrasonic Tactile None Lacks real-time tracking
Paper [3] Ultrasonic Vibration Bluetooth Limited app functions
Paper [4] IR + Li-Fi + RFID Audio (Braille) Li-Fi Complex and costly
Paper [5] IR + Bluetooth Vibration Android App No emergency support
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2.2 Gap Identification in Current Research
Despite the advancements in smart footwear, several critical gaps remain:
• Most systems lack real-time location tracking and SOS functionality.
• Arduino IDE dependency limits mobile integration.
• No robust solution exists for automatic live location sharing to guardians in emergencies.
• Energy backup systems like footstep-based power generation are underutilized or inefficient.
2.2.1 Theoretical Background and Key Concepts
Key concepts involved in existing and proposed systems include:
• Ultrasonic sensing for non-contact obstacle detection.
• Haptic feedback through vibration motors.
• IoT integration using ESP32 for wireless communication.
• Piezoelectric power generation for sustainable energy support.
• Mobile app interfacing using MIT App Inventor for real-time tracking and alerts.
2.3 Tools, Platforms, and Techniques from Literature
Tool/Platform Purpose
Arduino IDE Programming controller (commonly used)
ESP32 Microcontroller with Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
Ultrasonic Sensor Obstacle detection
MIT App Inventor Android app development
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Tool/Platform Purpose
Piezoelectric Sensor Footstep power generation
Bluetooth Module Wireless connectivity
GPS Module Live tracking and navigation
2.4 Outcome of the Survey
From the review, it is evident that:
• Most studies focused on basic obstacle detection.
• Very few solutions combined GPS + emergency alerts + app control.
• There's a need for independent, reliable systems with integrated energy and safety
mechanisms.
• A significant opportunity exists to eliminate Arduino IDE dependence and leverage mobile
apps more effectively.
2.5 Problem Statement
"To design and implement a smart wearable shoe for visually impaired individuals that enables
obstacle detection, footstep-based energy generation, and emergency live location sharing through
a mobile application — without the use of Arduino IDE — to ensure enhanced independence,
safety, and connectivity."
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CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY
The primary objective of this project is to improve the mobility, safety, and independence of
visually impaired individuals by designing a smart shoe with integrated sensors and real-time
mobile connectivity. The system detects nearby obstacles, alerts the user using vibrations and
buzzer sounds, and shares the user's live location and SOS messages to a guardian when needed.
3.1 OBJECTIVES
The primary objective of this project is to improve the mobility, safety, and independence of
visually impaired individuals by designing a smart shoe with integrated sensors and real-time
mobile connectivity. The system detects nearby obstacles, alerts the user using vibrations and
buzzer sounds, and shares the user's live location and SOS messages to a guardian when needed.
3.1.1 Obstacle Detection and User Feedback
This part of the system uses an ultrasonic sensor to detect obstacles within a certain distance.
When an obstacle is detected, signals are sent to both a vibration motor and a buzzer to provide
tactile and audio feedback to the user, enabling them to avoid collisions.
3.2 Proposed Solution
The proposed solution is a smart shoe that combines sensor-based hardware and mobile
software to assist the visually impaired. The hardware includes an ESP32 microcontroller,
ultrasonic sensors, a vibration motor, a buzzer, piezoelectric energy harvesting, and a lithium
battery.
3.2.1 Mobile App Integration and SOS Feature
Instead of using Arduino IDE for programming and interface, the ESP32 microcontroller is
connected to a custom mobile app built with MIT App Inventor. The app enables real-time location
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tracking and includes an SOS button to immediately send the user’s location to a predefined
emergency contact. It enhances user interaction and responsiveness in critical situations.
3.3 BLOCK DIAGRAM
FIG 3.3 BLOCK DIAGRAM
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CHAPTER 4: HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE
4.1 Components Required
► ESP 32 MICROCONTROLLER
► ULTRASONIC SENSOR
► BUZZER
► VIBRATOR
► LITHIUM BATTERY
► DIODES
► PIEZOELECTRIC SENSOR
4.1.1 ESP 32 MICROCONTROLLER
ESP32 is a series of low-cost, low-power system on a chip microcontroller with integrated Wi-Fi
and dual-mode Bluetooth. The ESP32 series employs either a Tensilica Xtensa LX6
microprocessor in both dual-core and single-core variations, Xtensa LX7 dual-core microprocessor
and a single-core RISC-V microprocessor and includes built-in antenna switches, RF balun, power
amplifier, and low-noise receive amplifier, filters, and power-management modules.
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FIG 4.1.1 ESP 32 MICROCONTROLLER FUNCTION BLOCKDIAGRAM
FIG 4.1.1 ESP 32 MICROCONTROLLER
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4.1.2 ULTRASONIC SENSOR
An ultrasonic sensor is an instrument that measures the distance to an object using ultrasonic
sound waves. An ultrasonic sensor uses a transducer to send and receive ultrasonic pulses that relay
back information about an object’s proximity. High-frequency sound waves reflect from
boundaries to produce distinct echo patterns. Ultrasonic sensors work by sending out a sound wave
at a frequency above the range of human hearing. The transducer of the sensor acts as a microphone
to receive and send the ultrasonic sound. Ultrasonic sensor uses a single transducer to send a pulse
and to receive the echo. The sensor determines the distance to a target by measuring time lapses
between the sending and receiving of the ultrasonic pulse. IoT ultrasonic sensors are designed for
non-contact detection of solid and liquid objects. These sensors are used for a wide variety of
functions from monitoring the level of water in a tank to fluid identification/concentration, to
detecting object proximity. A flux sensor or bend sensor is a sensor that measures the amount
of deflection or bending. Usually, the sensor is stuck to the surface, and resistance of sensor
element is varied by bending the surface. Since the resistance is directly proportional to the amount
of bend it is used as goniometer, and often called flexible potentiometer.
FIG 4.1.2 ULTRASONIC SENSOR
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4.1.3 BUZZER
A Buzzer is an audio signalling device. There are many types of buzzer and here 5V passive
Buzzer is used, which is used to create the sound and it may be mechanical, electromechanical, or
piezoelectric (piezo for short). Typical uses of buzzers and beepers include alarm devices, timers,
and confirmation of user input such as a mouse click or keystroke. The passive buzzer is an
electromagnetic squeaker used to generate sound signals of different frequencies. It requires an
AC signal to make a sound, where a changing input signal produces the sound, rather than
producing a tone automatically. To use this 5v buzzer, connect one pin to ground and the other to
a microcontroller programmed to output a square wave or a timer IC.
FIG 4.1.3 5V PASSIVE BUZZER
4.1.4 VIBRATOR
Vibration motor is a compact size coreless DC motor used to informs the users of receiving the
signal by vibrating, no sound. Vibration motors are widely used in a variety of applications
including cell phones, handsets, pagers, and so on. A vibratory motor is a three-phase motor that
is intentionally unbalanced, and is also known as an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) or vibrating
motor. This tiny motor produces vibrations by spinning an eccentric shaft at over 900 RPM when
power at 1.5V. It is intended for operation around 1.5V, and polarity is not important that is, the
motor can run CW or CCW. The main purpose of this vibrator motor is to alerts the user from
receiver the call by without sound and
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vibrating. These motor are applicable for different categories like pager, handsets, cell phones,
bluetooth etc. Vibration motor is a coreless DC motor and the size of this motor is compact. The
main purpose of this motor is to alert the user from receiving the call by without sound/vibrating.
The main feature of this motor is, it has magnetic properties, lightweight, and motor size is small.
Based on these features, the motor performance is highly consistent. The configuration of these
motors can be done in two varieties one is coin model and another one is a cylinder model.
FIG 4.1.4 VIBRATOR MOTOR
4.1.5 LITHIUM BATTERY
Batteries that have lithium as their anode is called lithium batteries. The charge moves from anode
to cathode during discharge and cathode to anode during charging. Lithium batteries were
introduced way back in the 1980-the 1990s. These batteries have completely revolutionized the
portable electronics market such as cellular telephones and laptop computers. Lithium Battery is a
latest technology battery which has 5 features - 2x life with 100% charging efficiency, light weight
and no maintenance. Lithium-Ion, or Li-Ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that's used
in many applications, but most commonly in the electronics industry. Li-Ion batteries provide
portable electricity, powering electronic gadgets such as mobile phones, laptops and tablets. A
power supply is a component that provides at least one electrical charge with power. It typically
converts one type of electrical power to another, but it can also convert a different Energy form in
electrical energy, such as solar, mechanical, or chemical.
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FIG 4.1.5 9V BATTERY
4.1.6 DIODES
A Diode is a two-terminal electronic component that conducts current primarily in one direction
(asymmetric conductance); it has low (ideally zero) resistance in one direction, and high (ideally
infinite) resistance in the other. Diodes can be used as rectifiers, signal limiters, voltage regulators,
switches, signal modulators, signal mixers, signal demodulators, and oscillators. The fundamental
property of a diodes is its tendency to conduct electric current in only one direction.
FIG 4.1.6 DIODE
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4.1.7 PIEZOELECTRIC SENSOR
A piezoelectric sensor is a device that uses the piezoelectric effect to measure changes in pressure,
acceleration, temperature, strain, or force by converting them to an electrical charge. A
piezoelectric sensor converts physical parameters - for example, acceleration, strain or pressure
into an electrical charge which can then be measured. They are highly sensitive and very small in
size making them well suited to everyday objects. Piezoelectricity is the charge created across
certain materials when a mechanical stress is applied. Piezoelectric pressure sensors exploit this
effect by measuring the voltage across a piezoelectric element generated by the applied pressure.
They are very robust and are used in a wide range of industrial applications. The sensors convert
a physical, acceleration, pressure, or other input to an electrical signal that serves as an input to a
data processing system. This sensor signal often results in a response from the system. One
example of such a piezo sensor is an accelerometer. A piezoelectric transducer consists of quartz
crystal which is made from silicon and oxygen arranged in crystalline structure (SiO2).
Piezoelectric transducer/sensor is an active transducer and it does not need external power supply
as it is self-generating.
FIG 4.1.7 PIEZOELECTRIC SENSOR
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4.2 SOFTWARE
4.2.1 ARDUINO IDE
The Arduino IDE is an open-source software, which is used to write and upload code to
the Arduino boards. The IDE application is suitable for different operating systems such as
Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. It supports the programming languages C and C++. Here,
IDE stands for Integrated Development Environment. The program or code written in the
Arduino IDE is often called as sketching. We need to connect the Genuino and Arduino
board with the IDE to upload the sketch written in the Arduino IDE software. The sketch
is saved with the extension '.ino.'
The Arduino IDE will appear as:
FIG 4.2.1 ARDUINO IDE INTERFACE
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Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
The Arduino IDE is an easy-to-use software for writing and uploading code to Arduino boards. It
includes a text editor, message area, console, toolbar, and menus to facilitate programming and
communication with the hardware. Compatible with Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux, it suits both
beginners and advanced users.
Arduino is widely used by students, teachers, artists, designers, and makers for learning,
prototyping, and creating interactive projects. It simplifies microcontroller programming
compared to other platforms and offers several advantages:
• Affordable: Arduino boards are low-cost, with some versions costing under $50.
• Cross-platform: The IDE works on Windows, Mac, and Linux, unlike many
microcontroller tools limited to Windows.
• User-friendly: The programming environment is simple and clear, making it accessible to
beginners.
• Open-source & extensible: Users can expand functionality via C++ libraries or integrate
low-level AVR C code.
Writing Sketches
Programs in the Arduino IDE, called sketches, are written in the text editor and saved with arduino
extension. The IDE provides features like cut/paste, search/replace, and error feedback. The
toolbar allows compiling, uploading, and accessing the serial monitor. The interface also shows
the selected board and serial port.
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4.2.2 MIT APP INVENTOR
MIT App Inventor is a free, open‑source, web-based visual programming platform developed by
MIT’s Center for Mobile Learning—originally created by Google and launched in 2010—designed
to democratize mobile app development by enabling users of all ages and skill levels to create fully
functional Android (and iOS, in beta) applications through an intuitive drag‑and‑drop interface.
The environment features two main components: the Designer, where visual elements like buttons,
sensors, and layouts are arranged, and the Blocks Editor, where logical behavior is defined using
puzzle‑piece style blocks that eliminate syntax errors and streamline development. With support
for live testing via the MIT AI2 Companion app on connected devices, seamless integration with
hardware (GPS, Bluetooth, camera) and cloud services (Google Sheets, Firebase), and a robust
open‑source community contributing tutorials and extensions, App Inventor empowers students
and hobbyists to rapidly prototype apps within minutes. Its goal is to shift users from passive
technology consumption to active creation, making it ideal for educational use, STEM learning,
and capstone engineering projects.
4.2.1 Introduction & Platform
Our app is built using MIT App Inventor, a free, open-source, block-based visual development
environment that enables rapid creation of Android apps with no conventional coding required .
The platform consists of two main editors: the Designer, where user interface elements such as
buttons, contact pickers, and text boxes are visually arranged, and the Blocks Editor, which uses
puzzle-piece-style blocks to define app logic—applying control structures, variables, and event
handlers intuitively .
4.2.2 Language & Components
Instead of traditional code, MIT App Inventor uses visual blocks that snap together. In our solution,
we utilize:
• ContactPicker : to select a phone contact,
• LocationSensor: to fetch real-time GPS data and convert it into a human-readable address.
• Texting and PhoneCall components : to send SMS or initiate a voice call.
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4.2.3 Program Logic & Flow
• Contact Selection: When ContactPicker.AfterPicking fires, our blocks set the
PhoneNumber field of the Texting component and update a Label to show the chosen
contact. This enables the app to know who the blind user will contact.
• Fetching Location: We use LocationSensor.CurrentAddress (or latitude/longitude if the
address isn't available) as soon as the GPS module acquires a valid fix. The app first checks
that the sensor has a non-zero value—ensuring accurate positioning before proceeding
• Sending SMS: When the SEND button is clicked, the app constructs a message by joining
a fixed prefix (e.g., “Hello My location is …”) with the retrieved address or coordinates.
Then it calls Texting.SendMessage to deliver the SMS automatically.
• Calling Option: A separate UI element triggers the PhoneCall.MakePhoneCall action,
enabling the blind user to directly place a call to the selected contact.
• User Feedback: After each action, Labels provide confirmation ("Sent!", phone number,
etc.) to keep the user informed of app state.
Fig 4.2.3 LOGIC INTERFACE
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CHAPTER 5: RESULT
Smart Shoe system developed for visually impaired individuals. It highlights how the proposed
system meets the primary objectives of obstacle detection, energy harvesting, and mobile
connectivity for real-time tracking and emergency alerts. Functional testing was conducted to
evaluate system responsiveness, power efficiency, and overall usability.
5.1 System Prototype and Testing
The smart shoe prototype was successfully designed using an ESP32 microcontroller integrated
with ultrasonic sensors, a buzzer, a vibration motor, and a piezoelectric sensor. The system was
powered by a lithium battery, supplemented by energy harvested from foot pressure. Testing was
conducted in indoor and outdoor environments to simulate real-world usage.
Fig 5.1 SAMPLE LOGO
5.1.1 Observations
• The shoe reliably detected obstacles within a range of 10-20 cm using the ultrasonic sensor.
• The buzzer and vibration motor responded immediately upon obstacle detection.
• The mobile application built using MIT App Inventor accurately shared the user’s live
location.
• The SOS alert feature successfully transmitted messages to a registered emergency contact.
• Piezoelectric sensors generated supplementary power during walking.
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Fig 5.1.1 PROTOTYPE OF HARDWARE CONNECTION
5.2 Performance Evaluation
Performance metrics were evaluated based on responsiveness, user feedback, app integration,
and energy harvesting capability. The system proved stable in various test conditions and
demonstrated the feasibility of combining IoT with wearable safety devices.
5.2.1 Summary of Results
• Accuracy: Obstacle detection rate was 95% in controlled environments.
• Response Time: Feedback was triggered within 1 second of obstacle detection.
• Connectivity: Mobile app retained stable communication with the ESP32 via Bluetooth.
• Power Efficiency: Piezoelectric charging reduced power drain during prolonged use.
• User Experience: The shoe was reported to be comfortable and easy to operate.
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FIG 5.2.1 WORKING OF APP
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CHAPTER 6 :APPLICATIONS AND ADVANTAGES
This chapter highlights the real-world applications and significant advantages of the smart shoe
system developed for visually impaired individuals. By integrating sensors, GPS, and mobile
communication, the system not only enhances mobility but also ensures safety and
independence. The sections below explore how the system can be used in daily life and the
benefits it brings over traditional aids.
6.1 Applications
6.1.1 Navigation for Visually Impaired
The smart shoe helps visually impaired users navigate crowded or unfamiliar environments
such as streets, bus stops, schools, and railway stations. It uses ultrasonic sensors to detect
obstacles and warns the user through vibration and sound, allowing them to walk safely without
constant human assistance.
6.1.2 Emergency Situations
The integrated mobile app enables the user to send their live location to a registered guardian. In
case of confusion, danger, or emergencies, a single tap on the app can notify the guardian with the
user’s exact GPS location.
6.1.3 Elderly and Special Needs Care
Besides being useful for the visually impaired, the smart shoe can be adapted for elderly
individuals who may face mobility issues or memory loss. Caregivers can monitor their movement
and ensure they stay within safe zones.
6.1.4 Educational Institutions and Rehabilitation Centers
Institutions that serve blind or low-vision students. The shoes can support students during travel
from one classroom to another or while commuting independently.
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6.2 Advantages
6.2.1 Compared to Traditional Devices
• No need for a walking stick in normal navigation, as the shoe senses obstacles up to a few
meters ahead.
• Dual alert system (vibration + buzzer) ensures better user feedback than a simple stick.
6.2.2 Compared to Arduino-based Systems
• No Arduino IDE dependency – We bypassed the traditional Arduino platform and used
ESP32's native capabilities integrated with a mobile app.
• Better real-time responsiveness using lightweight code and direct Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
integration.
• Simplified development and update process through block-based platforms like MIT
App Inventor for app-side logic.
6.2.3 Power Efficiency
• Piezoelectric sensors generate energy from footsteps and recharge the battery, reducing the
need for frequent manual charging.
6.2.4 Wearability and Comfort
• All hardware is embedded inside the shoe, providing a seamless user experience.
• Water- and dust-resistant casing makes it durable in various weather conditions.
6.2.5 Mobile Connectivity
• Real-time GPS tracking, live location updates, and SOS button offer features not
commonly available in earlier systems.
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CHAPTER 7 : CONCLUSION AND SCOPE FOR FUTURE WORK
7.1 CONCLUSION
This section provides a comparison between the proposed system and existing smart shoe
technologies developed using Arduino IDE or other microcontroller-based solutions.
7. 1.1 Performance vs Existing Systems
Ease of Use: Our system eliminates the need for Arduino IDE, making development and updates
easier via mobile apps.
Real-Time Communication: Live GPS tracking and SOS messaging provide enhanced safety
features compared to most earlier systems that lacked communication modules.
Power Source: Existing systems depend entirely on batteries; our solution introduces
piezoelectric energy harvesting, extending power availability.
Compact Design: All components are embedded within the shoe for comfort and portability,
unlike some earlier bulky systems.
7.2 Scope for Future Work
Though the system meets its primary objectives, several upgrades can be incorporated to further
enhance performance, usability, and intelligence of the product.
7.2.1Recommended Enhancements
Voice Navigation: Adding voice feedback via a speaker or headphone interface can guide users
using turn-by-turn instructions.
AI-Based Obstacle Detection: Integration of machine vision or object classification to distinguish
between types of obstacles (stairs, poles, humans, vehicles).
Google Maps Integration: Dynamic route assistance through the mobile app for better navigation.
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REFERENCES
1. Ariba khanam, Anuradha Dubey, Bhabya Mishara, ” A Smart Assistive Shoes for Blind People”,
International Journal of Advance Research in Science and Engineering, Volume No.07, special
issue No .01, April 2018.
2. S.D. Asha Mahesh, K.Raj Supriya, M.V.S.S.N.K. Pushpa Latha, P. Gowri, T.Sonia, B. Nani, “
Smart Assistive Shoes and Cane: Solemates for the Blind People”, International Journal of
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