Intelligent Dog Leash Handle For the BVIP: A Tactile Guidance System Based on Legged Robot

Guiding dogs are vital for assisting blind and visually impaired persons (BVIPs) in navigation, but their limited availability and high cost highlight the need for alternative solutions. Recent advancements in legged robotics suggest that robotic dogs could serve as a viable assistive technology. These robots offer agility and adaptability, making them suitable for navigating complex environments. However, while guiding dogs help with perceptual feedback, they do not fully address the challenges of spatial awareness and conceptual mapping in BVIPs. This paper proposes the integration of an active tactile feedback system into a legged robot, which enhances both perceptual and conceptual spatial awareness. By providing non-intrusive tactile cues, this system improves BVIPs’ ability to navigate and interact with their surroundings, offering a comprehensive solution to their mobility challenges.