ABSTRACT
Abstract: In this chapter, we describe our vision for computing technology tools that can enhance the safety and independence of blind and visually impaired (B/VI) people navigating unfamiliar indoor environments. We describe the overall road map for our work, along with the research to date on each component of this road map. This set of tools, known as “NavPal,” combines a variety of techniques and technologies including robots, crowdsourcing, advanced path planning, and multimodal interfaces. All of these tools and the framework have been informed, tested, and endorsed by many B/VI adults and by several orientation and mobility (O&M) experts.
