Divyagjan student designs low-cost Direction Finder for visually impaired persons
A visually impaired student from Tripura has made a device that can help him and others like him find their direction and orientation easily at affordable cost.
Tanmoy Das, a class XI student of the Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (Divyagjan) Boys', Narsingarh in West Tripura District has designed a direction finder that can be attached to the white cane, a common tool used by the visually impaired.
The device is based on the principle of a magnetic compass, which always points towards the north-south direction. The device consists of a compass needle, an infrared (IR) sensor, a 9-volt battery, wires, and a soldering machine. The compass needle is cut short on the side opposite to the north direction, and the IR sensor is placed on the north side of the compass.
When the device is activated, the IR sensor detects the presence of the compass needle and sends a signal to the buzzer, which emits an audible alert. The alert indicates that the user is facing the north direction. Once the user knows the north direction, they can easily figure out the other directions, such as south, east, and west.
The device is very simple to use and does not require any internet or wifi connection. The total cost of making the device is only Rs. 150, which makes it affordable and accessible for the visually impaired.
Tanmoy developed the device under the supervision of his teacher-guide Biswajit Deb and assistance from his fellow Sushanta Nama. He came up with the idea after facing difficulties in finding his direction and orientation when he travelled from one place to another.
"The device can help people like me find their direction and orientation with ease and confidence, and reduce their dependence on others", Tanmoy said.
Tanmoy's model is one of the 40 science models that are being displayed at the State level Science fair coined as Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshani, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha at Tulshibati school in Agartala on Friday.
The exhibition aims at promoting science and technology as well as fostering welfare promoting innovative ideas among the school students. The best model from the exhibition will get a chance to represent Tripura at the national level science exhibition.
Tanmoy, who is determined to defy his limitations, said that his Direction Finder is an example of how technology can be used for social good and empowerment.
"I hope that my device will not just help in finding the right direction but also inspire other visually impaired people to pursue their dreams and aspirations", he said.