A GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION-SYSTEM FOR A GPS BASED PERSONAL GUIDANCE-SYSTEM

This pager describes the process of building a GIS for use in real tim e by blind travellers. Initially the components of a Personal Guidance System (PGS) for blind pedestrians are outlined. The location finding and database components of the system are then elaborated. Next follo ws a discussion of the environmental features likely to be used by bli nd travellers, and a discussion of the different path following and en vironmental learning modes that can be activated in the system. Develo pments such as personalizing the system and accounting for veering are also presented. Finally, possible competing schemes and problems rela ted to the GIS component are examined.