Description:FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally relates to the field of assistive technologies and wearable safety devices. More specifically, it pertains to a smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The integration of advanced technology into assistive devices has revolutionized the way visually impaired individuals navigate their environments.
[0003] Among these innovations, the development of a smart embedded stick equipped with a camera and alert system stands out as a significant advancement, particularly in enhancing the safety and independence of blind women.
[0004] Traditionally, white canes have been the primary mobility aid for visually impaired individuals, serving as a tactile tool to detect obstacles and navigate surroundings.
[0005] While effective to an extent, these canes have limitations, especially in detecting obstacles above waist level or providing information about the environment beyond immediate tactile feedback.
[0006] The advent of technology introduced enhancements such as the Smart Cane, developed by the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, which utilizes ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles and alert users through vibrations. Priced affordably, the Smart Cane has been instrumental in aiding visually impaired individuals in India and other countries.
[0007] Building upon ultrasonic technologies, recent advancements have incorporated cameras and artificial intelligence to provide richer environmental information.
[0008] Devices like OrCam's My Eye use a small camera mounted on eyeglasses to read text, recognize faces, and identify objects, conveying this information audibly to the user.
[0009] Similarly, AI-powered wearable devices like AIris offer real-time auditory descriptions of surroundings, enhancing spatial awareness for users.
[0010] These innovations signify a shift towards more comprehensive assistive solutions that go beyond obstacle detection to include environmental understanding.
[0011] Blind women often encounter unique challenges that necessitate specialized solutions. Safety concerns, particularly in public spaces, are paramount. Instances of harassment or assault can be more difficult to detect and respond to for visually impaired women.
[0012] Moreover, societal factors may limit their access to education, employment, and healthcare. These challenges underscore the need for assistive devices that not only aid in navigation but also enhance personal security and autonomy.
[0013] In response to these needs, the smart embedded stick integrates a camera and alert system into a traditional mobility aid. The camera captures real-time images of the environment, which are processed using computer vision algorithms to identify potential threats or obstacles.
[0014] Upon detecting a hazard, the system alerts the user through auditory or haptic feedback. Additionally, the device can be programmed to send emergency alerts to predefined contacts, providing an added layer of security.
[0015] The smart embedded stick significantly contributes to the independence of blind women by enabling safer navigation and providing a means to respond to emergencies.
[0016] By reducing reliance on others for mobility and safety, users can engage more freely in daily activities, pursue education and employment opportunities, and participate more fully in society.
[0017] The psychological benefits of increased autonomy and security also contribute to an improved quality of life.
[0018] The smart embedded stick complements other assistive technologies, such as smartphone applications like Be My Eyes, which connects visually impaired users with sighted volunteers for assistance via live video.
[0019] By integrating with such platforms, the smart stick can offer enhanced functionalities, such as remote assistance and real-time guidance, further empowering users.
[0020] Ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence and sensor technologies hold the potential to further enhance the capabilities of the smart embedded stick.
[0021] Future iterations may include features like facial recognition, object identification, and integration with smart city infrastructure to provide real-time updates on public transportation or pedestrian signals.
[0022] Continuous user feedback will be crucial in guiding these developments to ensure they meet the evolving needs of blind women.
[0023] Visually impaired individuals, especially women, face unique challenges in navigating public spaces safely and independently.
[0024] Traditional walking sticks or white canes, though useful for detecting physical obstacles on the ground, are limited in their ability to provide awareness of dynamic or distant hazards, such as approaching vehicles, suspicious individuals, or obstacles above ground level.
[0025] Moreover, these conventional tools do not offer any mechanism to alert others or request help in case of emergencies, leaving users vulnerable to accidents, harassment, or attacks, particularly in isolated or unsafe environments.
[0026] Over the years, several technological solutions have been introduced to enhance mobility and safety for visually impaired people, including sticks embedded with ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles.
[0027] However, these devices mainly focus on obstacle detection and do not address broader personal security concerns such as real-time monitoring, threat detection, or the ability to alert caregivers or emergency contacts in critical situations.
[0028] Many existing solutions also lack integration with modern communication technologies or intelligent systems that can provide proactive assistance.
[0029] Blind women, in particular, encounter heightened safety risks due to both their disability and gender-specific vulnerabilities.
[0030] Reports indicate that women with visual impairments are at increased risk of harassment, assault, and exploitation, especially when traveling alone.
[0031] Incorporating advanced technologies like cameras, sensors, and wireless communication into the stick increases production costs, making it potentially unaffordable for low-income users or regions with limited resources.
[0032] The smart stick relies on continuous battery power to operate cameras, sensors, and alert systems. Frequent recharging or battery replacement could be inconvenient, especially in situations where access to electricity is limited.
[0033] The inclusion of electronic components introduces a higher chance of technical failures. Repairs may require specialized service, increasing maintenance costs and reducing accessibility for users in rural or underdeveloped areas.
[0034] The use of a camera for surveillance or real-time monitoring may raise privacy issues for both the user and people around them, particularly if data is transmitted to third-party servers or cloud storage.
[0035] Blind women, especially those not familiar with technology, may find it difficult to learn and operate a device with multiple embedded features, leading to frustration or underuse.
[0036] Alert systems relying on mobile networks or internet connectivity may face issues in remote or low-signal areas, reducing the effectiveness of emergency notifications or live monitoring.
[0037] In critical situations, technical glitches (e.g., camera failure, software bugs, communication errors) could prevent the device from alerting help promptly, compromising the safety of the user.
[0038] Adding hardware like cameras, batteries, and communication modules may increase the weight of the stick, making it less comfortable or practical for prolonged use, especially for elderly users.
[0039] Sensors and automated alert systems might trigger false alarms due to environmental factors, leading to unnecessary anxiety, wasted resources, or desensitization to real threats.
[0040] While the smart stick offers enhanced protection features, it cannot fully guarantee the physical safety of the user in all situations, and its effectiveness is still limited by its range, technological constraints, and human factors.
[0041] One of the most significant disadvantages of this smart embedded stick lies in its technological complexity. The system integrates a camera module, a sensor array, a communication unit, an intelligent detection algorithm, and a control unit, all within the limited physical form factor of a handheld stick.
[0042] This convergence of multiple technologies within a portable device poses challenges for hardware design, energy efficiency, weight management, and ergonomics. Blind users rely heavily on the tactile and lightweight nature of traditional sticks for comfort and ease of use.
[0043] Embedding electronic components risks making the stick bulkier, heavier, or awkward to handle, which can compromise the user’s mobility rather than enhancing it.
[0044] A heavier stick might induce fatigue over prolonged use, especially for elderly women or those with additional physical limitations, undermining its practical usability.
[0045] In addition to weight and size constraints, the power consumption of the system is a notable disadvantage. Continuous operation of sensors, real-time video capture, wireless communication, and intelligent processing requires a reliable energy source, typically a battery.
[0046] However, fitting a sufficiently powerful battery into the stick without enlarging its dimensions is a challenging design trade-off. Moreover, frequent recharging may be required to maintain functionality, creating inconvenience for users who might forget to charge or lack easy access to power sources.
[0047] A depleted battery at a critical moment could render the alert system and camera inoperative, thus defeating the device’s protective purpose. Dependence on battery life also raises concerns about the stick’s long-term sustainability and maintenance requirements.
[0048] Another important disadvantage concerns data privacy and ethical considerations. The system’s camera continuously or periodically records the environment in which the user navigates, sometimes without the awareness or consent of surrounding individuals.
[0049] In public or semi-private settings, constant video capture raises ethical questions about surveillance and the inadvertent violation of bystanders’ privacy rights. In many jurisdictions, recording people without explicit consent, especially in sensitive areas, could lead to legal repercussions for the user or the developers of the technology.
[0050] The same issue applies to the transmission of video footage to third parties, such as emergency contacts or police stations. Even though the goal is protection, the potential for misuse, accidental leaks, or unauthorized access to personal data could result in reputational harm or legal disputes.
[0051] Balancing safety needs with privacy laws remains a difficult task for such surveillance-enabled assistive technologies.
[0052] Related to privacy is the risk of data security vulnerabilities. Since the system involves transmitting alert messages and video evidence through wireless communication, it becomes susceptible to hacking, interception, or cyber-attacks.
[0053] A malicious actor could intercept the user’s location data or video stream, potentially using the information to track or target the user rather than protect them. If the system relies on cloud storage for its database, breaches of cloud servers could expose sensitive records of past incidents.
[0054] Given the high stakes associated with protecting vulnerable populations, ensuring end-to-end encryption, secure authentication, and robust cybersecurity measures is essential but difficult to guarantee, especially in low-cost or mass-market versions of the device.
[0055] The reliance on network connectivity further compounds the system’s disadvantages. For the alert message and video to reach an emergency contact or police station, the stick must have stable access to a wireless communication network, such as cellular data or Wi-Fi.
[0056] However, blind women may travel through areas with weak signal strength, dead zones, or no internet coverage at all, including rural regions, basements, or underground locations.
[0057] In such scenarios, the alert system would fail to transmit critical information in real-time, leaving the user unprotected. Network dependency limits the system’s universal applicability, making it less reliable in environments where safety measures are most urgently needed.
[0058] From an economic perspective, the cost of acquiring, maintaining, and repairing the device represents a major disadvantage. The integration of advanced electronics, sensors, intelligent algorithms, and communication modules inevitably increases the production cost compared to traditional white canes.
[0059] This higher price point may be unaffordable for blind women in low-income households or developing countries, exacerbating accessibility inequities rather than solving them.
[0060] Furthermore, periodic maintenance, software updates, component replacements, or repairs due to wear-and-tear add to the lifetime cost of ownership.
[0061] If the device malfunctions, repairs may require specialized technicians unavailable in remote or underdeveloped regions, leading to prolonged periods without a functional assistive device.
[0062] Another disadvantage stems from false positives and false negatives in threat detection. While the system employs an intelligent detection algorithm to differentiate between normal interactions and potentially harmful gestures, no algorithm is perfectly accurate.
[0063] Situations may arise where the system falsely classifies harmless interactions as threats, triggering unnecessary alerts that cause anxiety for the user or waste emergency responders’ time.
[0064] Conversely, some subtle or unconventional threatening behaviors may escape detection, leading to false negatives that compromise the user’s safety.
[0065] Over-reliance on artificial intelligence to interpret human gestures introduces ambiguity, as social cues and cultural norms of interaction vary widely. False alarms may discourage users from trusting the system or desensitize emergency contacts to genuine alerts.
[0066] The system’s effectiveness also depends on the responsiveness of external recipients such as family members or police officers. Even if the device successfully detects a threat, captures evidence, and transmits an alert, the real-world outcome depends on whether the unknown person receiving the alert or the police act promptly and appropriately.
[0067] In regions where emergency response times are slow or police coverage is inadequate, the system’s ability to prevent harm may be limited. There is an implicit assumption that external responders will interpret the alerts correctly and prioritize them, which may not hold true in every context, particularly in jurisdictions with high caseloads or poor infrastructure.
[0068] In parallel, social stigma and acceptance challenges may arise when using such a visibly technology-enhanced stick. Unlike traditional sticks that blend into the social environment, a stick embedded with cameras and visible sensors may draw unwanted attention, making blind women feel conspicuous or marked as vulnerable targets.
[0069] Potential attackers may recognize the stick’s surveillance capabilities and deliberately attempt to disable or snatch it. Additionally, some users may feel uncomfortable or intimidated by carrying a device with continuous monitoring functions, fearing that their daily movements are being constantly observed or recorded.
[0070] This psychological discomfort could dissuade adoption even if the technology functions as intended.
[0071] Another drawback relates to the learning curve and usability challenges faced by blind users. Operating a smart embedded stick with multiple electronic functions may require training to understand its modes, alerts, troubleshooting steps, and maintenance needs.
[0072] Elderly blind women or those with cognitive impairments may struggle to adapt to the added complexity. Misunderstandings about system status (e.g., whether the battery is charged, whether the camera is recording, whether an alert was successfully sent) could lead to anxiety or misuse.
[0073] Assistive technology must prioritize intuitive, error-tolerant design, yet balancing such simplicity with the complexity of multiple integrated features is difficult.
[0074] Beyond individual-level challenges, the deployment of such a smart embedded stick raises system-level scalability and support concerns. Widespread adoption would necessitate infrastructure for alert routing, emergency dispatch coordination, device registration, technical support, firmware updates, and incident reporting.
[0075] Without institutional support systems in place, the burden of managing device functionality falls entirely on the user and their immediate contacts. If service providers shut down, software support ends, or cloud platforms are discontinued, the system risks becoming obsolete or partially functional.
[0076] Long-term sustainability and ecosystem support remain open questions for novel assistive technologies.
[0077] Finally, the stick’s focus on technological solutions may unintentionally shift attention away from broader societal interventions required to ensure women’s safety.
[0078] While the device equips blind women with an individualized defense mechanism, it does not address the underlying structural issues of unsafe public spaces, gender-based violence, or social neglect of vulnerable populations.
[0079] There is a risk of placing the burden of self-protection solely on individuals through gadgets, rather than fostering community, policy, and environmental changes that make public spaces safer for all.
[0080] Relying on technology as the primary safeguard may create an illusion of security while neglecting systemic reforms.
[0081] Thus, in light of the above-stated discussion, there exists a need for a smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0082] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0083] According to illustrative embodiments, the present disclosure focuses on a smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages or provide the users with a useful or commercial choice.
[0084] An objective of the present disclosure is to develop a smart stick that integrates a camera system to automatically capture visual evidence during incidents of harassment or attempted harm against blind women.
[0085] Another objective of the present disclosure is to enhance the personal safety of blind women by providing a tool that not only aids in navigation but also functions as a proactive security device.
[0086] Another objective of the present disclosure is to design an alert system within the stick that can instantly notify the nearest police station with real-time incident data when the user is in danger.
[0087] Another objective of the present disclosure is to ensure quick law enforcement response by transmitting automatic alerts containing location and video evidence during emergencies.
[0088] Another objective of the present disclosure is to create a user-friendly embedded system that allows blind women to operate the stick without requiring complex interaction or technical knowledge.
[0089] Another objective of the present disclosure is to reduce the vulnerability of blind women in public spaces by enabling silent and automatic reporting of harassment or threats.
[0090] Another objective of the present disclosure is to integrate GPS or location-tracking features within the stick to accurately guide emergency responders to the user’s location when an alert is triggered.
[0091] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a dual-purpose solution that maintains the traditional function of a walking stick for navigation while adding advanced protective features.
[0092] Another objective of the present disclosure is to record and store incident evidence securely for use in legal processes or investigations following an attack or harassment.
[0093] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to improve upon conventional blind sticks by incorporating safety, surveillance, and emergency communication technologies in a compact, portable form.
[0094] In light of the above, a smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women comprises a handheld stick body configured for user navigation assistance. The system also includes a camera module configured to automatically capture video footage in response to detection of potentially harmful or threatening activity near the user. The system also includes a sensor module configured to detect proximity, motion, or suspicious gestures indicative of an attempted harm or misbehavior toward the user. The system also includes a communication module configured to automatically transmit an alert message along with the captured video evidence to a preconfigured external recipient. The system also includes a control unit configured to coordinate real-time detection, video capture, and alert transmission to enable proactive security response. The system also includes an intelligent detection algorithm configured to differentiate between normal pedestrian interactions and potentially harmful gestures.
[0095] In one embodiment, the camera module is further configured to capture video footage in real-time and store the footage locally within the handheld stick body for post-event review.
[0096] In one embodiment, the sensor module includes a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of an individual within a predefined range of the user.
[0097] In one embodiment, the sensor module further comprises a motion sensor configured to detect unusual movement patterns near the user indicative of potential threats.
[0098] In one embodiment, the intelligent detection algorithm utilizes machine learning techniques to improve the accuracy of distinguishing between normal and suspicious gestures over time.
[0099] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to trigger an audio alert to the user upon detection of potentially harmful activity.
[0100] In one embodiment, the alert message transmitted by the communication module includes the user's GPS location at the time of the detected threat.
[0101] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to activate a flashing light or vibration on the handheld stick body as an additional visual or tactile alert for the user.
[0102] In one embodiment, the camera module includes a night vision capability to capture video footage in low-light conditions.
[0103] In one embodiment, a method for smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women comprises providing a smart stick configured with an embedded camera, a sensor module, a control unit, and a wireless communication module. The method also includes sensing, via the sensor module, the presence of an unknown person approaching or engaging in suspicious or harmful behavior towards the user. The method also includes automatically activating the camera to capture real-time video evidence of the incident upon detection of suspicious or harmful behavior. The method also includes processing the captured video and incident data via the control unit to generate an alert signal. The method also includes transmitting the alert signal along with the captured video to a designated recipient.
[0104] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0105] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
[0106] These elements, together with the other aspects of the present disclosure and various features are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part of the present disclosure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure, its operating advantages, and the specified object attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0107] To describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure or in the prior art more clearly, the following briefly describes the accompanying drawings required for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Apparently, the accompanying drawings in the following description merely show some embodiments of the present disclosure, and a person of ordinary skill in the art can derive other implementations from these accompanying drawings without creative efforts. All of the embodiments or the implementations shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.
[0108] The advantages and features of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:
[0109] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart outlining sequential step involved in a smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0110] FIG. 2 illustrates the architectural block diagram of the smart embedded stick for protection of blind women, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0111] Like reference, numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of several views of the drawing;
[0112] The smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women, which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. It should be noted that the accompanying figure is intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that the accompanying figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0113] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
[0114] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It may be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[0115] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term is used, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0116] The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[0117] The terms “having”, “comprising”, “including”, and variations thereof signify the presence of a component.
[0118] Referring now to FIG. 1 to FIG. 2 to describe various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart outlining sequential step involved in a smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0119] A smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women 100 comprises a handheld stick body 102 configured for user navigation assistance.
[0120] The system also includes a camera module 104 configured to automatically capture video footage in response to detection of potentially harmful or threatening activity near the user. The camera module 104 includes a night vision capability to capture video footage in low-light conditions. The camera module 104 is further configured to capture video footage in real-time and store the footage locally within the handheld stick body 102 for post-event review.
[0121] The system also includes a sensor module 106 configured to detect proximity, motion, or suspicious gestures indicative of an attempted harm or misbehavior toward the user. The sensor module 106 includes a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of an individual within a predefined range of the user. The sensor module 106 further comprises a motion sensor configured to detect unusual movement patterns near the user indicative of potential threats.
[0122] The system also includes a communication module 108 configured to automatically transmit an alert message along with the captured video evidence to a preconfigured external recipient. The alert message transmitted by the communication module 108 includes the user's GPS location at the time of the detected threat.
[0123] The system also includes a control unit 110 configured to coordinate real-time detection, video capture, and alert transmission to enable proactive security response. The control unit 110 is configured to activate a flashing light or vibration on the handheld stick body 102 as an additional visual or tactile alert for the user. The control unit 110 is configured to trigger an audio alert to the user upon detection of potentially harmful activity.
[0124] The system also includes an intelligent detection algorithm 112 configured to differentiate between normal pedestrian interactions and potentially harmful gestures. The intelligent detection algorithm 112 utilizes machine learning techniques to improve the accuracy of distinguishing between normal and suspicious gestures over time.
[0125] A method for smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women comprises providing a smart stick configured with an embedded camera, a sensor module, a control unit, and a wireless communication module. The method also includes sensing, via the sensor module, the presence of an unknown person approaching or engaging in suspicious or harmful behavior towards the user. The method also includes automatically activating the camera to capture real-time video evidence of the incident upon detection of suspicious or harmful behavior. The method also includes processing the captured video and incident data via the control unit to generate an alert signal. The method also includes transmitting the alert signal along with the captured video to a designated recipient.
[0126] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart outlining sequential step involved in a smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women.
[0127] At 102, the process begins when the user activates the smart embedded stick. Upon activation, the device performs a self-diagnostic check to ensure all components, including the camera module, sensor module, communication module, and control unit, are functioning correctly. Once the system confirms operational readiness, it enters a standby mode, continuously monitoring the environment for any potential threats or anomalies.
[0128] At 106, as the user navigates their surroundings, the sensor module plays a pivotal role in continuously scanning for environmental cues. Equipped with proximity sensors, motion detectors, and gesture recognition capabilities, the module detects movements or behaviors that deviate from normal pedestrian interactions. For instance, sudden approaches, unusual proximity, or aggressive gestures trigger the sensor module to flag potential threats.
[0129] At 104, upon detecting a potential threat, the control unit activates the camera module. The camera captures real-time video footage of the surrounding environment, focusing on the source of the detected anomaly. This visual data is crucial for both immediate threat assessment and post-event analysis. The camera's design ensures it operates discreetly, maintaining the user's privacy while effectively documenting the situation.
[0130] At 110, once a threat is confirmed, the communication module is activated to disseminate alerts. The system composes an alert message containing critical information, including the user's current location (obtained via GPS), a brief description of the detected threat, and the captured video footage. This alert is transmitted to preconfigured external recipients, such as family members, caregivers, or emergency services. The prompt transmission ensures that assistance can be dispatched swiftly, enhancing the user's safety.
[0131] At 112, the captured video, along with data from the sensor module, is processed by the control unit, which employs the intelligent detection algorithm. This algorithm analyzes the combined data to differentiate between benign interactions and genuine threats. By considering factors such as movement patterns, proximity, and gesture dynamics, the system assesses the severity of the situation. If the algorithm determines a high likelihood of threat, it proceeds to initiate the alert mechanism.
[0132] Simultaneously, the system provides immediate feedback to the user. Through auditory cues or haptic vibrations, the device informs the user of the detected threat and may offer guidance on evasive actions or safe routes. This real-time feedback empowers the user to make informed decisions, enhancing their autonomy and confidence in navigating potentially hazardous situations.
[0133] After the initial response, the system continues to monitor the environment, ensuring ongoing protection. Additionally, the intelligent detection algorithm incorporates machine learning techniques, allowing it to adapt and improve over time. By analyzing past incidents and user feedback, the algorithm refines its threat assessment criteria, reducing false positives and enhancing detection accuracy.
[0134] To maintain optimal performance, the device periodically undergoes maintenance routines. This includes software updates to the control unit and intelligent detection algorithm, ensuring the system remains equipped to handle emerging threats and incorporates the latest advancements in sensor and communication technologies. Users are notified of updates and guided through the installation process, ensuring the device remains user-friendly and effective.
[0135] FIG. 2 illustrates the architectural block diagram of the smart embedded stick for protection of blind women.
[0136] At 202, the core of this architecture lies the user’s sensor stick, which is the primary interface between the blind woman and the surrounding environment. This sensor stick is not just a passive navigation tool but is embedded with multiple sensors, a camera module, and communication units that work collaboratively to monitor the environment, detect suspicious activities, and initiate a chain of actions to safeguard the user.
[0137] At 204. the user’s sensor stick is continuously scanning the environment through its sensor module, which includes proximity sensors, motion detectors, and gesture recognition units. These sensors are calibrated to detect unusual movements, people approaching too closely, or gestures that may indicate aggression or harassment. As the stick’s sensors identify a potentially harmful interaction, this detection triggers the activation of a secondary system known as threat detection and sensor activation. This subsystem acts as an intermediary that validates the sensor inputs by filtering normal interactions from threatening gestures using an intelligent detection algorithm. It analyzes patterns, movement speeds, and distances to distinguish between a passerby and someone behaving suspiciously. The purpose of this layer is to reduce false alarms and ensure the system reacts only to credible threats.
[0138] At 206, once a threat is confirmed, the system transitions to the next phase where the camera module integrated into the stick is automatically activated. The camera captures real-time video footage of the event, recording visual evidence of the suspicious individual or activity. Simultaneously, the system initiates a recording process in the user’s mobile device, where the video data is transmitted wirelessly and securely stored. The mobile phone acts as both a local storage hub and a communication gateway for the system. The recorded footage is timestamped and possibly geotagged to ensure that any subsequent review of the footage includes contextual information about when and where the incident took place.
[0139] At 208, parallel to the recording process, the system’s alert triggering module is activated. This module acts as the command center for initiating emergency responses. Upon receiving a validated threat detection signal, the alert triggering module automatically composes and sends an alert message. This alert includes critical information such as the user’s current location (via GPS), a brief description of the detected threat, and a link or attachment to the recorded video footage. The alert is first directed to an unknown person — representing a predefined emergency contact in the user’s network, such as a family member, friend, or guardian. This individual acts as the first line of defense, receiving real-time updates on the user’s situation and potentially responding quickly if nearby.
[0140] At 210, once the alert is sent to the unknown person, it also follows a parallel communication path directly to the police station. The alert notification to the police ensures that law enforcement is immediately made aware of the threat, even if the unknown person is unable to respond in time. The architectural block diagram thus shows a dual notification pathway: one to the personal contact and one directly to authorities, ensuring redundancy and reliability in emergency communication. This redundancy is vital because it increases the chances of a timely intervention.
[0141] At 212, meanwhile, the recorded footage stored in the mobile device is also linked to a database in the system architecture. This database serves as a secure, centralized repository where all recorded events, video clips, threat detection logs, timestamps, and alert messages are archived for later review or evidence. The connection between the mobile device and the database can be configured to automatically upload data when internet connectivity is available, ensuring that even if the mobile device is damaged or lost, the critical evidence remains safe in the cloud or a remote server. This database can be accessed by authorized personnel, including law enforcement and legal representatives, for investigation and prosecution purposes.
[0142] At 214, following the alert notification, the police station’s monitoring unit receives the incoming alert along with the video evidence. Officers can immediately view the video feed or recorded clip to assess the severity of the situation. With location data provided in the alert, police can dispatch nearby patrols to the scene of the incident without delay. The real-time evidence allows law enforcement to make informed decisions about deploying resources, and in cases where the identity of the unknown person (i.e., the potential attacker or harasser) can be determined from the video footage, officers can take immediate action. This leads to the final phase of the architectural process where, based on the evidence provided, the unknown person is arrested by the police.
[0143] This arrest is the culmination of the system’s proactive and reactive defense mechanisms working in harmony. The architectural flow ensures that a threat is not only detected but is followed by evidence collection, notification to trusted contacts and authorities, and eventually leads to accountability and intervention. The user’s sensor sticks, therefore, becomes more than a navigation aid; it transforms into a mobile security device equipped with real-time monitoring, communication, and legal protection capabilities.
[0144] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it will be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0145] A person of ordinary skill in the art may be aware that, in combination with the examples described in the embodiments disclosed in this specification, units and algorithm steps may be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof.
[0146] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but such omissions and substitutions are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0147] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0148] In a case that no conflict occurs, the embodiments in the present disclosure and the features in the embodiments may be mutually combined. The foregoing descriptions are merely specific implementations of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present disclosure. Any variation or replacement readily figured out by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the protection scope of the present disclosure shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women (100) comprising:
a handheld stick body (102) configured for user navigation assistance;
a camera module (104) configured to automatically capture video footage in response to detection of potentially harmful or threatening activity near the user;
a sensor module (106) configured to detect proximity, motion, or suspicious gestures indicative of an attempted harm or misbehavior toward the user;
a communication module (108) configured to automatically transmit an alert message along with the captured video evidence to a preconfigured external recipient;
a control unit (110) configured to coordinate real-time detection, video capture, and alert transmission to enable proactive security response;
an intelligent detection algorithm (112) configured to differentiate between normal pedestrian interactions and potentially harmful gestures.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the camera module (104) is further configured to capture video footage in real-time and store the footage locally within the handheld stick body (102) for post-event review.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensor module (106) includes a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of an individual within a predefined range of the user.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensor module (106) further comprises a motion sensor configured to detect unusual movement patterns near the user indicative of potential threats.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the intelligent detection algorithm (112) utilizes machine learning techniques to improve the accuracy of distinguishing between normal and suspicious gestures over time.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) is configured to trigger an audio alert to the user upon detection of potentially harmful activity.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the alert message transmitted by the communication module (108) includes the user's GPS location at the time of the detected threat.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) is configured to activate a flashing light or vibration on the handheld stick body (102) as an additional visual or tactile alert for the user.
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the camera module (104) includes a night vision capability to capture video footage in low-light conditions.
10. A method for smart embedded stick with camera and alert system for enhanced protection of blind women comprising:
providing a smart stick configured with an embedded camera, a sensor module, a control unit, and a wireless communication module;
sensing, via the sensor module, the presence of an unknown person approaching or engaging in suspicious or harmful behavior towards the user;
automatically activating the camera to capture real-time video evidence of the incident upon detection of suspicious or harmful behavior;
processing the captured video and incident data via the control unit to generate an alert signal;
transmitting the alert signal along with the captured video to a designated recipient.