Remarks & References

Remarks:

• In terms of giving directions, since the prototype relies on the magnometer for heading, it is pretty accurate when using an digital compass as a reference (10 degrees or less). But in an indoor environment, especially in the electrical engineering building where electromagnetic labs are nearby, both iPhone and our prototype shows the same inconsistency.
• We also assumed that the user would always hold the cane with the IMU facing up when asking for directions. This is hard to maintain during the continuous seeking mode that is implemented right now. Better algorithm to infer user heading is needed.
• The location of the vibrating disc was experimented at difference locations on the cane. The final prototype used it as a dial pointer on the servo motor. As the servo rotates, the vibration of the motor may obfuscate the programmed effect of the disc.
• For more complex station environment, we would like to include trilateration positioning for both BLE-based and UWB-based locationing. Their robustness worth studying and field testing.
• Currently the scenario considered is one wherein we are not doing much about crowding and their attenuation effect signal strength and NLOS interference. Such aspect needs to be considered as that will help increase the appeal of the product above.