Guide Dogs, a UK-based charitable organization providing guide dogs, mobility and other rehabilitation services to the blind and partially sighted, is working together with the University of Reading to develop a prototype RFID way-finding system.
The system employs RFID technology to assist blind and partially sighted people the freedom to choose how they get about. It consists of three main components: RFID tags, a handheld receiver, and a database of pre-recorded messages about each tag’s location.
RFID tags are embedded in the surrounding environment such as at bus stops or indoor shopping centers. When it comes into range, the handheld reader scans the tag and speaks to the user, telling exactly where he/she is. The system can also provide additional information about the immediate environment around them.
The system, dubbed Talking Tags, was recently tested in London where it received positive reviews from users and the potential service providers who took part, such as the local authorities, retail outlets, and transit providers.
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