SafeRoute: A Safer Outdoor Navigation Algorithm with Smart Routing for People with Visual Impairment

Fatmaelzahraa Eltaher, Luis Miralles-Pechuán, Jane Courtney, Susan McKeever

Abstract: Outdoor navigation presents a significant challenge for People with Visual Impairments (PVI). While individuals generally rely on visual cues to interpret their surroundings, PVI often require navigation support systems to facilitate their movements. These systems rely on compiled environmental data to assist PVI in navigating safely and independently. Unfortunately, there is a lack of information regarding crucial crossing points, including intersections, and entrances to parking spaces. Current applications such as Google Maps or Apple Maps lack adaptations to PVI’s needs.This paper proposes a solution to the problem of unsafe suggested routes for PVI. Our SafeRoute algorithm prioritizes safety over distance by recommending a safer route. Unlike conventional methods focusing on finding the shortest path, our algorithm aims to decrease the danger level of the suggested route based on user preferences. This reduction of danger level involves minimizing the number of hazardous factors along the route, such as uncontrolled intersections and parking space entrances.