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A smart guide

Researchers at the University of Birmingham, uk, have developed a navigation and orientation device, called MoBIC (Mobility of Blind and Elderly People Interacting with Computers). The device would help blind people to increase their independent mobility. The system works in association with satellites. MoBIC changes satellite signals into computer data and passes prepared route directions to the user by the spoken word. A wrist-worn mini keyboard helps the user to know a position or destination. The system involves a personal computer with synthetic speech output and software that enable blind people to explore the electronic map and plan the optimum route to their destination.

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