Guide Dogs Replaced with RFID-Equipped Robots

The Department of Computer Science at Utah State University is developing RFID robots that can be used for blind and visually impaired, similar to a guide dog. The technology can develop into assistive technology robots used at supermarkets or any other public place to guide the user.

Vladimir Kulyukin, a computer science professor at the Utah State University (USU), is building robots to help people with disabilities, according to the Utah Statesman. Professor Kulyukin is working on a project that eventually will result in RFID-enabled robots mounted on mobile carts which will welcome blind persons at the entrance of a supermarket and guide them through the store.

“Simply speaking, we are trying to develop a robot for use as a mobile grocery cart used for the blind in supermarkets,” Kulyukin said. “The robot would meet the blind person at the door and, by the push of a button, would lead the person to different areas of the store.”

Kulyukin said the robot would ideally be mounted on mobile carts, but the funding for the technology at the USU is not sufficient for marketing the project.

Source: Roland Piquepaille’s Technology Trends