Assessment on a Talking Device of Weight and Height for the Visually Impaired Students

Abstract

This study is aimed to facilitate the measurement of weight and height with the body mass index detail for the visually impaired students. We created a digital measuring device that supports digital voice. We focused on reducing the cost and the material required in prototyping while maintaining the quality and accuracy of the device. To achieve this, we used a microprocessor and Ultrasonic sensors to measure the height and the Load Cells to measure weight. We used a digital screen to display the measured results. The users can press buttons, labelled in Braille, to listen to their height, weight, and BMI in Thai language. There are buttons, labelled in Braille, for listening to the measured result. The proposed device has been evaluated by 30 sighted and 15 visually impaired volunteers who extensively used the device and provided scores in five aspects: the speed of device is noticeable, Speech and result-values are consistent, accuracy of weighing, accuracy of measurement of elevation, and the device can work as intended. Assessment of the device received overall satisfactory scores, and due to its relatively low cost, is well-suited for individuals with low income.