Index
Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………2
Objectives……………………………………………………………………………………...3
General objective………………………………………………………………………3
Specific objectives……………………………………………………………………..3
Methodology…………………………………………………………………………………...4
Project description…………………………………………………………………………..…5
Diagram……………………………………………………………………………………..…6
Material to be used…………………………………………………………………………….6
Cost of material……………………………………………………………………………..…7
Economic impact……………………………………………………………………………....7
Social impact…………………………………………………………………………………..8
Environmental impact…………………………………………………………………………8
Disadvantages/Limitations…………………………………………………………………….9
Message to the stakeholders………………………………………………………………..….9
Bibliography……………………………………………………………………………….…10
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Introduction
Engineering is the practical and systematic application of scientific, mathematical and technical
knowledge to plan, design, build, maintain and improve structures, machines, systems, materials
and processes, aiming at the creation of innovative solutions to technical and social problems,
considering economic, social, safety and environmental aspects.
This work aims to present a project focused on improving electronic glasses designed for
individuals with visual impairments. Through this initiative, we seek to enhance the user
experience of these devices and, consequently, contribute to the development of a more inclusive
society, taking into account the aspects previously discussed.
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Objectives
General objective
Improve electronic glasses designed for individuals with visual impairments, in order to ensure a
high-quality user experience.
Specific objectives
Ensure greater accuracy and reliability of devices;
Increase the processing speed of devices;
Improve the design in order to offer comfort and cultural-linguistic inclusion to the
user.
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Research Methodology
This project falls within the field of assistive technologies and aims to propose improvements to
electronic glasses designed for visually impaired individuals, with the goal of enhancing mobility,
autonomy, and social inclusion. The adopted methodology was carefully structured to ensure
coherence between the proposed objectives and the applied methodological procedures.
Type of Research
This is an applied and technological research project, as it seeks to address a practical problem
through the enhancement of an existing device. It adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach,
focused on understanding the current features of electronic glasses and identifying potential
improvements.
Methodological Procedures
The methodology will be developed through the following stages:
Literature and documentary review:
A comprehensive review of specialized literature will be conducted, including scientific articles,
technical publications, project reports, patents, technical standards, and user manuals of assistive
devices for visually impaired individuals. This review will provide insight into the current state of
the art in this technological field.
Analysis of existing devices:
Existing models of electronic glasses, such as OrCam MyEye and eSight, will be analyzed in terms
of their functionalities, technical limitations, and user experience. This analysis will be based on
technical documentation, case studies, and user reports available in bibliographic and institutional
sources.
Proposal of improvements:
Based on the findings of the previous stages, a set of technological and functional improvements
will be proposed. These may include the integration of more efficient sensors, extended battery
life, more intuitive interfaces, and compatibility with mobile devices and geolocation systems.
Possibility of future testing:
Although the current phase of the project does not include practical implementation or empirical
data collection, a pilot testing phase is foreseen in the future. This testing may be carried out with
a selected group of users in the Maputo Province, in order to validate the proposed enhancements.
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Study Area
The initial implementation area of the project will be the Maputo Province, in Mozambique, where
the analysis will be conducted and, in a future phase, practical tests of the improved devices may
take place.
Target Population
The target population of this project consists of visually impaired individuals, particularly those
who face challenges in daily mobility and spatial orientation. It is expected that the proposed
improvements will offer these individuals a safer, more efficient, and user-friendly experience.
Project Description
This project aims to introduce functional and technological improvements to electronic glasses
designed for visually impaired individuals, with the goal of providing a more efficient, realistic,
and culturally inclusive user experience. Despite recent progress in the field of assistive
technologies, many existing devices still present significant limitations such as slow data
processing, low responsiveness, and a lack of visual realism. These issues reduce user confidence
and the practical effectiveness of the devices in supporting navigation and spatial awareness.
The proposal focuses on three main areas of improvement:
Enhanced processing efficiency
The project will explore the use of more advanced and efficient sensors capable of real-time
environmental data processing, reducing lag and making the device more responsive to user needs.
Increased visual realism
Technologies will be considered to improve image quality and spatial representation, allowing the
user to perceive their surroundings in a way that more closely resembles reality. This enhances
understanding of the environment and improves mobility.
Cultural and linguistic inclusion
The project also proposes to incorporate local Mozambican languages into the device interface,
ensuring that users feel culturally understood and included in their interaction with technology.
Maputo Province has been selected as the initial area for implementation due to its relatively higher
level of development compared to other provinces, which facilitates the application and future
testing of the proposed improvements.
At the end of the project, it is expected that the improved electronic glasses will provide a more
comfortable, functional, and inclusive experience for users, contributing significantly to the
mobility, autonomy, and quality of life of visually impaired individuals in Mozambique.
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Diagram
Material to be used
For the development of the enhanced electronic glasses, it is necessary to integrate hardware and
software components that ensure efficient processing, accurate environmental perception,
connectivity, and user-friendly interaction. The materials below were selected based on their
functionality, market availability, and compatibility with modern assistive technologies.
Component Function
Glasses frame(lightweight and durable) Physical support of the device
Micro controller/processor Real-time data processing
Distance sensors Obstacle detection and environmental
mapping
High-resolution camera Capturing the environment for visual analysis
Image processing/AI module Object recognition and visual enhancements
Built in speakers or bone conduction Audio feedbacks to the user
headphones
Microphone Voice commands
GPS module Location and navigation
Long lasting rechargeable battery Power supply
Bluetooth/ Wi-Fi module Connectivity with apps or servers
Internal memory(SD card or flash storage) Data storage
Application with AI and local languages User interface and cultural personalization
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Production Cost (Estimate)
The estimated costs consider the average market prices for producing a single unit. These values
can be reduced with mass production or institutional partnerships. The table below presents
approximate costs in US dollars and Mozambican meticals.
Item Average cost(USD) Cost in Meticals(MZN)
Custom frame $15 975 MZN
Processor/ Microcontroller $20 1,300 MZN
Sensors(3-4 units) $25 1,625 MZN
HD Camera $30 1,950 MZN
AI Module $35 2,275 MZN
Battery $15 975 MZN
Speakers/ Bone conduction $20 1300 MZN
Microphone $5 325 MZN
GPS $15 975 MZN
Bluetooth/ Wi-Fi $10 650MZN
Memory( 32GB SD) $8 520 MZN
Software( AI, multilingual $50 3,250 MZN
interface)
Total estimated $248 16,120 MZN
Although the production cost is relatively high, it is justified given the technological and assistive
nature of the product. With government funding, partnerships, and mass production, the final cost
for the user can be significantly reduced.
Economic Impact (Financial Perspective)
From an economic perspective, this project has the potential to boost national technological
development. Local production of the device can reduce dependence on imported assistive
technologies, promoting technological autonomy and strengthening the domestic economy.
Furthermore, a locally developed product can be exported to other African countries with similar
needs, generating revenue and improving the country’s competitiveness in the technology sector.
The project can also stimulate job creation in various fields, including electronics engineering,
programming, design, maintenance, and user support. Universities and innovation centers can
collaborate in the development and testing of the prototype, strengthening the relationship between
academia and industry.
However, it is important to consider that the initial investment in research, development, and
production is high. External funding, tax incentives, or public-private partnerships will be
necessary. Nevertheless, in the medium and long term, the economic benefits outweigh the initial
costs, making the project financially viable and sustainable.
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Social Impact (Advantages)
The social impact is one of the project’s main strengths. The enhanced electronic glasses can
significantly increase the autonomy of visually impaired individuals, enabling greater
independence in mobility and daily activities. The integration of obstacle detection technologies
and realistic spatial representation enhances users’ safety in both public and private environments.
Additionally, the inclusion of Mozambican local languages promotes cultural and linguistic
inclusion, ensuring that users feel represented and understood. This contributes to the appreciation
of cultural identity and the reduction of communication barriers.
Access to this technology may also facilitate the inclusion of visually impaired individuals in the
labor market and educational settings, promoting equal opportunities and reducing social
exclusion. In terms of quality of life, the device can strengthen self-esteem, mobility, and active
participation in society.
Environmental Impact
The production of electronic glasses presents both positive and negative environmental impacts.
Among the positive aspects, the potential reduction in the use of printed braille materials
contributes to lower paper consumption. The device may also reduce the need for assisted
transportation, indirectly minimizing emissions.
However, manufacturing electronic components involves the use of plastics and metals, which can
generate waste if not properly disposed of. The rechargeable battery, although more sustainable
than disposable alternatives, also presents environmental risks if recycling programs are not
implemented.
To mitigate negative environmental impacts, the project may adopt measures such as modular
design (facilitating repairs and upgrades instead of disposal), the use of recyclable materials for
the frame, and the implementation of collection and recycling programs for old devices. This
approach ensures a more sustainable product lifecycle.
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Disadvantages / Limitations
Despite its benefits, the project presents some limitations that should be considered. The
production cost remains relatively high, which may limit access for low-income individuals,
especially in less developed regions. Government programs or subsidies may be necessary to
ensure accessibility.
The use of the device also requires training, as some users may initially struggle to adapt to the
technology. Additionally, there is a possibility of technical failures, such as processing delays,
detection errors, or battery problems, which could compromise the user experience.
Another sensitive aspect is privacy, since the use of cameras and microphones may raise concerns
about recording images or sounds in public spaces. Finally, there is a risk of overdependence on
the device, which could reduce the development of natural orientation and mobility skills that
many users already possess.
Message to the stakeholders
In today’s world, where technology advances at an extraordinary pace, millions of people with
visual impairments continue to face daily barriers to their autonomy. This project was born from
a desire to change that reality by improving existing electronic assistive glasses and making them
smarter, more accessible, and more effective.
More than just a product, this initiative represents a commitment to inclusion, dignity, and the
freedom of movement. We believe that technology should be a bridge, not a barrier to equality.
Our goal is to create a solution that goes beyond simple obstacle detection: we aim to develop a
system that understands the environment, interacts with the user intuitively, and integrates
naturally into their daily life.
This is, without a doubt, a technical challenge, but above all, it is a human one. That is why this is
not just a project: it is a vision for a more accessible, fairer, and more conscious future.
Because seeing is more than using one’s eyes. It is having the power to choose your own path!
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Bibliography
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[Link]
[Link]
MANIRAJEE, Lalitha. Assistive technology for visually impaired individuals: A systematic
literature review (SLR).Malaysia: International Journal of Academic Research in Business and
Social Sciences, 2024.
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