Walking support system with robust image matching for users with visual impairment

Recently, a number of studies on walking support systems for users with visual impairment have been reported. Most proposals, however, would require significant infrastructure investment and the use of dedicated devices. Auditory route maps that guide users to their destination have been proposed as a cost-reducing solution, but existing maps cannot be adapted to new routes according to individual preferences. This paper therefore proposes a walking support system consisting of three components: 1) an optimal routing method that selects the best route for an individual; 2) camera-based landmark matching to prevent users from losing their way; and 3) a remote assistance system to guide users back to the route if necessary. This paper also proposes methods for evaluating these system components.