Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-functional mobility assistive device that is capable of providing a protective means to a visual impaired user from various environmental conditions such as excessive sunlight or rainfall and detects potential hazards such as obstacles, irregular surfaces or approaching vehicles in the user’s path to alert the user to navigate safely, thereby enhancing the user's mobility and safety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Visually impaired individuals face numerous challenges while navigating their surroundings, particularly in unfamiliar or dynamic environments. Traditional mobility aids, such as canes and guide dogs, provide basic assistance but lack advanced features to detect environmental conditions or potential hazards comprehensively. These conventional solutions do not offer protection against adverse weather conditions such as excessive sunlight or rainfall, leaving users vulnerable to discomfort and potential health risks.

[0003] Furthermore, they often fail to address the complexities of detecting and alerting users to multiple hazards, including approaching vehicles, uneven surfaces, or other obstacles in their path, which can lead to accidents or injuries. To overcome these limitations, there is a need to develop a device that not only provides enhanced protection from environmental factors but also incorporates real-time hazard detection and alert mechanisms. The device should be capable of responding automatically to changing environmental conditions, offering users increased safety and independence.

[0004] CN113633079A discloses about a blind guiding umbrella suitable for people with visual impairment, which is characterized by comprising an umbrella body and a blind guiding handle, wherein the umbrella body comprises an umbrella cover and an umbrella stick, and the umbrella stick is provided with a button for opening the umbrella; the lower end of the umbrella stick is detachably connected with the blind guiding handle; the cavity of the blind guiding umbrella handle is internally provided with a GPS module, a vibration module, a Bluetooth module, an ultrasonic module, a processor, a rechargeable power module and a magnetic module, wherein the GPS module, the vibration module, the Bluetooth module and the ultrasonic module are respectively and electrically connected with the processor; the rechargeable power module supplies power to the GPS module, the vibration module, the Bluetooth module, the ultrasonic module and the processor. The invention can play the role of guiding blind and guiding navigation while playing the role of shielding the umbrella from rain, so that people with visual impairment can safely and efficiently go out in rainy days.

[0005] WO2018163141A2 discloses about a smart umbrella for the visually impaired comprising a receiver for receiving weather information being broadcast by the weather service, a vibration module, an acoustic signal emitter, an electronic control panel for the smart umbrella management and a power supply, all that integrated in the handle of the smart umbrella. Additionally, it comprises an obstacle sensor.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating their surroundings. These include basic tools such as white canes, which provide tactile feedback to detect obstacles in the immediate vicinity. While these solutions have proven effective to some extent, they lack advanced features to protect users from environmental elements like sunlight or rain and do not comprehensively detect or alert users to multiple hazards such as uneven surfaces, approaching vehicles, or other dynamic obstacles in real-time. Additionally, these conventional aids often require significant user effort and provide limited assistance in complex or unfamiliar environments.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to provide automated protection against adverse weather conditions, detect a wide range of potential hazards and offer timely alerts to ensure safe navigation. The developed device needs to combine ease of use, reliability and adaptability to various environments, thereby enabling visually impaired users to move with greater confidence, safety and independence.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that provides protection to a visually impaired user against environmental factors such as excessive sunlight and rainfall and further detects potential hazards including obstacles, uneven surfaces and approaching vehicles in the user’s path, offering timely alerts to enable safe navigation and enhance overall mobility and safety.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provides a means for stabilizing the device on the ground surface which reduces the risk of falls and provides the user with added stability when navigating slippery surfaces.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that deters animals in proximity to the user by dispensing a deterrent substance, ensuring the user's safety from potential threats caused by animals.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a multi-functional mobility assistive device that provides automated protection against adverse weather conditions, detects a wide range of potential hazards and offer timely alerts to ensure safe navigation. Additionally, the proposed device needs to combine ease of use, reliability and adaptability to various environments, thereby enabling visually impaired users to move with greater confidence, safety and independence.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a multi-functional mobility assistive device, comprises of a telescopic rod having a U-shaped structure at bottom end for enabling a visually impaired user to acquire a grip onto the rod, a sensing module comprising a sun sensor and a rainfall detection sensor is embedded on the rod to determine intensity of sunlight and/or rainfall in surroundings, a hydrophobic canopy attached with the rod by means of umbrella mechanism to provide protection to the user from the rain and/or sunlight, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the structure to detect presence of obstacle(s) in path of the user, a pair of haptic feedback units are embedded on either sides of the structure that generates vibration patterns to alert the user about potential hazards, such as approaching vehicles, obstacles, or irregular surfaces, an extendable bar attached with the structure via a motorized ball-and-socket joint to extend towards ground surface, providing user with a navigational and reducing risk of falls, a microphone provided on the structure for receiving voice commands of the user regarding requirement of a protective shield, a plate attached to the structure through a telescopic link, and an expandable frame is positioned over the plate that is covered by a stretchable fabric made of conductive silicone rubber, carrying an electric current and offering high tensile strength to resist tearing or damage from forceful impacts.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of an electronic sprayer attached with a vessel stored with water and configured at the structure for dispensing the water on the animal(s) in view of deterring the animal, plurality of thin elongated members attached radially on the telescopic rod, a plurality of support sticks having their top ends attached to central regions the plurality of elongated members with pin joints, bottom ends of the support sticks attached to a motorized cylindrical vertical slider provided on the telescopic rod, in case the imaging units detects potential hazards, such as pits, open manholes, or other surface-level obstacles that pose a risk to the user, a suction unit integrated with free-end of the bar to grip the surface preventing user's movement and avoiding accidents, a holographic projection unit integrated with the structure that displays a visual alert on road which serves as a warning to vehicle drivers approaching towards the user, indicating their presence and prompting driver(s) to slow down for safety and a GPS (Global Positioning System) module integrated with the microcontroller continuously monitors user’s location, that are further transmitted to a computing unit accessed by caretaker of the user.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a multi-functional mobility assistive device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a multi-functional mobility assistive device that is designed to offer automated protection from adverse weather conditions, detect a broad spectrum of potential hazards, and provide timely alerts to ensure safe navigation. In addition, the proposed device seamlessly integrate user-friendly features, exceptional reliability, and adaptability to various environments, empowering visually impaired users to navigate with enhanced confidence, safety, and independence.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a multi-functional mobility assistive device is illustrated, comprising a telescopic rod 101 having a U-shaped structure 102, a sensing module 103 embedded on the rod 101, a hydrophobic canopy 104 attached with the rod 101 by means of umbrella mechanism 105, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 installed on the structure 102, a pair of haptic feedback units 107 embedded on either sides of the structure 102, an extendable bar 108 attached with the structure 102, a microphone 109 provided on the structure 102, a plate 110 attached to the structure 102, an electronic sprayer 111 attached with a vessel 112, a suction unit 113 integrated with free-end of the bar 108 and a holographic projection unit 114 integrated with the structure 102.

[0023] The proposed device herein comprises of a telescopic rod 101 having a U-shaped structure 102 at bottom end for enabling a visually impaired user to acquire a grip onto the rod 101. The rod 101 is made up of, but not limited to, lightweight and durable materials such as aluminum alloys, carbon fiber composites, or reinforced polymers, ensuring strength and resistance to bending under load. The telescopic design allows for adjustable length, accommodating users of varying heights and providing ergonomic convenience.

[0024] The user is required to press a push button integrated with the device, such that when the user presses the push button, it initiates an electrical circuit mechanism 105. Inside the push button, there is a spring-loaded contact mechanism 105 that, under normal circumstances, maintains an open circuit. When the button is pressed, it compresses the spring, causing the contacts to meet and complete the circuit. This closure then sends an electrical signal to an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device to either power up or shut down. Conversely, releasing the button allows the spring to return to its original position, breaking the circuit and sending the signal to deactivate the device.

[0025] The microcontroller activates a sensing module 103 comprising a sun sensor and a rain detection sensor is embedded on the rod 101 to determine intensity of sunlight and/or rainfall in surroundings, respectively. The sun sensor operates by utilizing a combination of photodetectors and electronics to measure the intensity of sunlight in the surroundings. The sun sensor consists of one or more photodetectors that receive incident light from the sun. These photodetectors convert the received light into an electrical current, which is then processed by the microcontroller to determine an optical sunlight present in the surroundings of the user.

[0026] The rain sensor used herein works as a switch. The rain sensor consists of an electrically active surface and a circuit linked with the microcontroller. Whenever raindrops fall over the device, there exists in the fluctuation in the voltage across the circuit due to decreasing in the resistance of the surface. The voltage fluctuation is detected by the microcontroller to detect the presence of rain.

[0027] If the microcontroller linked with the sensing module 103 detects that the sunlight and/or rainfall exceeding a threshold limit, then the microcontroller expands a hydrophobic canopy 104 attached with the rod 101 by means of umbrella mechanism 105 to actuate the umbrella mechanism 105 to provide protection to the user from the rain and/or sunlight.

[0028] The umbrella mechanism 105 comprises a plurality of thin, elongated members that are attached radially around the telescopic rod 101. The top ends of these members are connected to a central region using pin joints, allowing for pivoting motion. Support sticks are connected to the bottom ends of these elongated members, with their opposite ends attached to a motorized cylindrical vertical slider positioned on the telescopic rod 101. The motorized cylindrical vertical slider moves along the telescopic rod 101, which causes the support sticks to extend outward, pushing the elongated members into an open position. This action unfolds the hydrophobic canopy 104, which provides protection to the user from the rain and sunlight. The hydrophobic properties of the canopy 104 material ensure that water is repelled, offering efficient shelter from the elements.

[0029] The microcontroller actuates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 is installed on the structure 102 to detect presence of obstacle(s) in path of the user. The imaging unit 106 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 106 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 106 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and detect presence of obstacle(s) in path of the user.

[0030] Upon detection of obstacle(s) in path of the user, the microcontroller actuates a pair of haptic feedback units 107 embedded on either sides of the structure 102 that generates vibration patterns to alert the user about potential hazards, such as approaching vehicles, obstacles, or irregular surfaces. The haptic feedback unit 107 consists of a vibration motor, which is controlled by the microcontroller. Upon detecting obstacles or hazards in the user's path, such as approaching vehicles, obstacles, or irregular surfaces, the microcontroller processes the data and activates the vibration motors. These motors generate specific vibration patterns, which are transmitted to the user through the structure 102. The vibration patterns vary in intensity, duration, or frequency to convey different types of hazards or their proximity, providing the user with a tactile warning to help them navigate safely. The haptic feedback unit offers real-time, non-visual alerts, enhancing the user's awareness of their surroundings and potential risks.

[0031] An extendable bar 108 is attached with the structure 102 via a motorized ball-and-socket joint. If the microcontroller via the imaging unit 106 determines slippery condition on the surface, then the microcontroller actuates the bar 108 to extend towards ground surface to assist user with a navigational support and reducing risk of falls. The extendable bar 108 is linked to a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the bar 108. The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller. Such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the bar 108 and due to applied pressure, the bar 108 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the bar 108 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the bar 108 in order to provide stabilizing effect by creating a point of contact with the ground, which helps the user maintain balance and reduces the risk of falls.

[0032] The user accesses a microphone 109 provided on the structure 102 for receiving voice commands regarding requirement of a protective shield. The microphone 109 consists of a diaphragm, typically made of a thin, flexible material such as metal or plastic. When sound waves reach the microphone 109, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate. These vibrations are directly proportional to the variations in air pressure caused by the sound waves. The diaphragm is coupled to a coil of wire, as the diaphragm vibrates, the coil moves within a magnetic field, inducing an electric current in the wire. This current is proportional to the amplitude and frequency of the sound waves. The electrical signal generated by the diaphragm-coil is transmitted to the microcontroller.

[0033] The microcontroller on receiving the signals to initiate the deployment of the protective shield. The shield consists of a plate 110 attached to the structure 102 via a telescopic link, allowing it to extend or retract as needed. Over the plate 110, an expandable frame is positioned, which holds a stretchable fabric made of conductive silicone rubber. This fabric serves a dual purpose: it conducts electricity, potentially enabling active features such as heating or electrostatic protection, and its high tensile strength resists tearing or damage from forceful impacts. This design ensures that the protective shield can expand when needed, providing a resilient and responsive layer of protection against environmental hazards.

[0034] An electronic sprayer 111 is attached with a vessel 112 stored with water and configured at the structure 102. When the imaging unit 106 identifies an animal near the user, then the microcontroller processes this data and determines the need for action. Upon detecting the animal, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the sprayer 111 which is attached to the vessel 112 containing water. The sprayer 111 then dispenses a controlled amount of water toward the animal.

[0035] The electronic sprayer 111 operates through a pump-driven mechanism, pressurizing water within the vessel 112. This pressurized water is then expelled through an electronically controlled nozzle, creating a fine mist or spray. The controlled release of pressurized water towards the animal to deter the animal from approaching the user by using water as a mild deterrent. This helps to protect the user by providing a quick and non-harmful response to potential threats posed by animals, ensuring their safety without requiring manual intervention.

[0036] If the imaging unit 106 detects potential hazards, such as pits, open manholes or other surface-level obstacles the n the microcontroller processes the data to assess the risk to the user. Upon identifying such a hazard, the microcontroller activates a suction unit 113 integrated at the free end of the extendable bar 108 to grip the surface firmly. The suction unit 113 works through a vacuum pump, a sealed chamber and a flexible suction cup. The vacuum pump draws air out of the sealed chamber creating a negative pressure within it. This negative pressure generates a suction force, causing the flexible suction cup to tightly adhere to the surface of the ground, such as concrete or asphalt. The suction cup, designed to form a tight seal with the surface, ensures that the suction force remains strong enough to prevent the user's movement or stabilize the device in the presence of obstacles like pits or open manholes. The suction unit 113 provides a secure grip effectively securing the device and preventing accidents by halting the user's progress toward the hazard.

[0037] A holographic projection unit 114 is integrated with the structure 102 that displays a visual alert on road which serves as a warning to vehicle drivers approaching towards the user indicating their presence and prompting driver(s) to slow down for safety. The holographic projection unit 114 operates by utilizing a combination of light sources optical components, and a projection means to create a three-dimensional visual alert in the form of a hologram. The unit consists of a light source such as a laser or LED which emits light that is modulated by a digital controller to form a specific image or warning symbol. Optical elements, such as mirrors or lenses, then manipulate the light to project the image on a specific area, like the road ahead. The hologram appears to float in space, visible to approaching vehicle drivers, signaling the presence of the user. The projection is designed to be clear, attention-grabbing, and visible from a distance, allowing the drivers to slow down for safety as they are made aware of the user's presence.

[0038] A GPS (Global Positioning System) module integrated with the microcontroller continuously monitors user’s location. The GPS (Global Positioning System) module is a satellite-based navigation system. The satellites present in space moving in fixed orbits transmits information about the location and real-time of the user’s location. The signals travel at the speed of light and are intercepted by the GPS module such that the GPS module calculates the distance of each satellite and based on the time taken by the information to arrive at the receiver. The GPS module locates four or more satellites and calculates the distance between each of them. Using this information, the GPS module finds out the current location of the user’s location Once the distance is determined, the GPS module uses a trilateration method to determine the exact position of the user’s location and thus fetching the real-time location coordinates of the user’s location that are further transmitted to a computing unit accessed by caretaker of the user.

[0039] The device is associated with a battery for providing the required power to the electronically and electrically operated components including the microcontroller, electrically powered sensors, motorized components and alike of the device. The battery within the device is preferably a lithium-ion-battery which is a rechargeable battery and recharges by deriving the required power from an external power source. The derived power is further stored in form of chemical energy within the battery, which when required by the components of the device derive the required energy in the form of electric current for ensuring smooth and proper functioning of the device.

[0040] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the telescopic rod 101 features U-shaped grip at the bottom, enabling easy handling for the user. The sensing module 103 which includes the sun sensor and the rainfall detection sensor detect environmental conditions like sunlight intensity or rainfall. When these conditions exceed a predefined threshold, the microcontroller triggers an umbrella mechanism 105, deploying the hydrophobic canopy 104 to shield the user from the elements. The imaging unit 106 continuously monitors the user’s surroundings, detecting obstacles, irregular surfaces or approaching vehicles. The imaging unit 106 is paired with a processor and haptic feedback units 107 embedded on either side of the structure 102. When potential hazards are detected, these haptic feedback units 107 generate specific vibration patterns to alert the user to navigate with caution. The extendable bar 108 attached to the motorized ball-and-socket joint, which extend towards the ground when slippery conditions are detected, providing extra stability and reducing the risk of falls. The microphone 109 allows the user to issue voice commands for additional features, such as the deployment of the protective shield. The shield itself consists of the expandable frame covered with the stretchable fabric made of conductive silicone rubber, which offers durability and resistance to tearing. The rod 101 also includes an electronic sprayer 111 that upon detecting the animal near the user the sprayer 111 dispenses water to deter the animal.

[0041] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , C , Claims:1) A multi-functional mobility assistive device, comprising:

i) a telescopic rod 101 having a U-shaped structure 102 at bottom end for enabling a visually impaired user to acquire a grip onto said rod 101, wherein a sensing module 103 comprising a sun sensor and a rainfall detection sensor is embedded on said rod 101 to determine intensity of sunlight and/or rainfall in surroundings;

ii) a microcontroller linked with said sensing module 103 upon detection of sunlight and/or rainfall exceeding a threshold limit, said microcontroller expands a hydrophobic canopy 104 attached with said rod 101 by means of umbrella mechanism 105, by actuating said umbrella mechanism 105, to provide protection to said user from said rain and/or sunlight;

iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 installed on said structure 102 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of surroundings, respectively, to observe surrounding and detect presence of obstacle(s) in path of said user, wherein a pair of haptic feedback units 107 are embedded on either sides of said structure 102, that generates vibration patterns to alert said user about potential hazards, such as approaching vehicles, obstacles, or irregular surfaces;

iv) an extendable bar 108 attached with said structure 102 via a motorized ball-and-socket joint, wherein said imaging unit 106 upon detection of slippery conditions on surface, said microcontroller actuates said bar 108 to extend towards ground surface, providing user with a navigational and reducing risk of falls;

v) a microphone 109 provided on said structure 102 for receiving voice commands of said user regarding requirement of a protective shield, wherein a plate 110 is attached to said structure 102 through a telescopic link, and an expandable frame is positioned over said plate 110 that is covered by a stretchable fabric made of conductive silicone rubber, carrying an electric current and offering high tensile strength to resist tearing or damage from forceful impacts; and

vi) an electronic sprayer 111 attached with a vessel 112 stored with water and configured at said structure 102, wherein upon detection of an animal in proximity to said user, as processed by said microcontroller upon detection via said imaging unit 106, said microcontroller actuates said sprayer 111 for dispensing said water on said animal(s) in view of deterring said animal.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein umbrella mechanism 105 comprises a plurality of thin elongated members attached radially on said telescopic rod 101, a plurality of support sticks having their top ends attached to central regions said plurality of elongated members with pin joints, bottom ends of said support sticks attached to a motorized cylindrical vertical slider provided on said telescopic rod 101.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said imaging unit 106 detects potential hazards, such as pits, open manholes, or other surface-level obstacles that pose a risk to the user, said microcontroller activates a suction unit 113 integrated with free-end of said bar 108 to grip said surface, preventing user's movement and avoiding accidents.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a holographic projection unit 114 is integrated with said structure 102, that displays a visual alert on road, which serves as a warning to vehicle drivers approaching towards said user, indicating their presence and prompting driver(s) to slow down for safety.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a GPS (Global Positioning System) module integrated with said microcontroller continuously monitors user’s location, that are further transmitted to a computing unit accessed by caretaker of said user.