Can RFID Help the Blind?

By RFID Journal

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Ask The Experts › Can RFID Help the Blind?
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RFID Journal Staff asked 10 years ago
Are there any prototype RFID systems being developed for those without sight? I have read articles regarding smart canes for the blind, in which a visually challenged person would carry an RFID reader. What I’m looking for, though, is a solution in which a blind person would carry a tag, with no specific blind path or tags placed near sidewalks.

—Shabana

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Shabana,

We have published a number of articles regarding the use of radio frequency identification to assist those unable to see. I am unaware, however, of any applications in which a blind person would carry a tag. That seems like it would be a difficult solution, since the world would need to have readers situated everywhere in order to interact with that individual. The cheaper solution would be to provide him or her with a reader, and to then deploy tags throughout an area.

Here are some relevant articles:

• TellMate Uses RFID to Help the Blind Recognize Objects

• RFID Helps Blind Workers Do Their Jobs

• Swiss Town Rolls Out RFID System for Blind Bus Riders

• Tags Lead the Way for Blind in EU-Funded Pilot

• U.S. Agency Plans Navigation System for the Blind

• Michigan Students to Develop RFID-enabled Robotic Guide Dog

—Mark Roberti, Founder and Editor, RFID Journal

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