We developed an automatic walking guidance system for the visually impaired such that may walk or jog by themselves in a gymnasium. In detail, the system consists of an electrically powered wheelchair, with an infrared barcode reader, which moves ahead of the person throush predetermined points along a route. It is therefore possible for a user to enjoy independent physical training whenever they want. help.
　The key technology of this system is finding you position in a gymnasium or corridor. Although, it is possible to move around with a wheelchair using ultrasound sensor, it is desirable and necessary to have the actual position information so as to know when you have reached a specific point or turn. We therefore used a specially designed infrared barcode plate, along the side of a corridor, as a position identifier. The plate, being invisible, is not obvious and therefore does not spoil the building design.
　The results were
　1 ) Invisible type barcode plates and
　2 ) a mobile position data reader were developed. Moreover,
　3 ) an effective sound information method for the system was developed for the system.

DESCENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.16/THE DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE