Virtual Booth

Visual impairment presents substantial challenges to independent mobility and 
environmental awareness, increasing the risk of falls and injuries while reducing quality of life. In Malaysia, more than 805,000 persons are registered with disabilities, including approximately 68,000 individuals with visual impairment, highlighting the need for accessible and affordable assistive technologies. This study aimed to develop ViNOVA, a wearable smart navigation device designed to enhance safe and independent mobility for individuals with visual impairment. The prototype integrates dual Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors for obstacle and surface detection, colour-sensing technology for object and 
surface recognition, and a real-time voice feedback system that provides immediate auditory guidance. All electronic components were incorporated into a lightweight and ergonomic wearable structure to improve comfort and usability during daily activities. Functional testing under indoor conditions demonstrated an obstacle detection accuracy of 95.8%, colour recognition accuracy of 93.4%, and an average voice feedback response time of 0.42 s, indicating reliable real-time performance for navigation assistance. These findings demonstrate the successful integration of multiple sensing technologies into a single wearable platform while maintaining portability and ease of use. In conclusion, ViNOVA shows considerable potential as an affordable assistive device to improve mobility safety, promote independent living, and enhance the quality of life of individuals with visual impairment through accessible smart sensing technology.