Risk and Plans
What are the most significant risks that could jeopardize the success of the project? How are these risks being managed? What contingency plans are ready?
The most significant risk currently is Uncertainty Regarding Component Integration and Performance. With all components ordered, including the K-LD7 radar, GPS, accelerometer, and microcontroller, the primary concern is to make sure of seamless integration and correct functioning across systems. For example, while the radar is expected to detect obstacles in real-time, interference from environmental factors or misalignment with the audio alert system could jeopardize the overall effectiveness. We also have some concerns with its accuracy and complexity of data processing.
To manage these risks, we are implementing a testing and verification process. We have planned 50-100 unit tests for each part. Each component will undergo individual testing followed by system-wide testing to ensure compatibility and accuracy, particularly for radar-based obstacle detection and GPS fall detection. If we encounter any integration issues, such as power consumption inconsistencies or sensor inaccuracy, we will explore alternative components, including LIDAR or optimizing software to compensate.
Contingency plans include switching sensors or adjusting system parameters to ensure functionality without compromising user safety or the project’s goals.
Change in Design
Were any changes made to the existing design of the system (requirements, block diagram, system spec, etc)? Why was this change necessary, what costs does the change incur, and how will these costs be mitigated going forward?
Several design changes were made to the system based on further review of the component choices and project requirements:
- Sensor Selection: We opted for the K-LD7 radar sensor over ultrasonic and camera-based systems due to its performance in low-light environments and lower power consumption. The radar’s multi-target detection and direct serial output make it more efficient for continuous operation in all weather conditions. We also decide to go with K-LD7 instead of position to go considering costs and project complexity.
- Battery and Power Optimization: We made modifications to ensure power efficiency by balancing sensor performance with power consumption. Should battery endurance fall below the required threshold (3 hours), we have a mitigation strategy involving battery optimization or expanding the capacity with lower power sensors as alternatives.
- GPS Integration: Initially, we considered using mobile phone GPS through cloud service alerts. However, after testing concerns regarding the precision of the GPS data, we decided to include a separate GPS hardware module in the design to ensure the user’s exact location is communicated accurately during emergencies.
These design changes were necessary to ensure that the device is both reliable and practical for visually impaired users. While the addition of the GPS hardware introduces extra costs, these costs are mitigated by avoiding less critical components and focusing the budget on essential features.
Schedule Updates
Provide an updated schedule if changes have occurred.
We are on schedule with the project timeline. Key changes include:
- Component orders were adjusted to reflect the finalized design.
- Testing for radar performance and integration with the GPS system is underway and progressing as expected.
- We anticipate completing system integration testing in the coming weeks, with real-world validation tests scheduled thereafter.
Week-Specifics
Part A: … with respect to considerations of public health, safety or welfare.
From a public health perspective, WalkGuard fosters psychological well-being by empowering visually impaired users with greater independence and confidence to navigate their environment without needing constant assistance. By detecting obstacles in real-time and issuing sound alerts, the device reduces the risk of accidents, providing a sense of security and lowering anxiety. Besides, WalkGuard helps alleviate the constant concerns of caregivers; it provides them peace of mind by reducing their 24/7 responsibilities. Additionally, in terms of safety, the device offers advanced hazard detection that protects users from obstacles they might not perceive with traditional aids like white canes, such as the trunk of an approaching truck or other high-up obstacles. The forehead-level alerts give users more time to react, so the risk of collisions decrease. Moreover, the built-in fall detection system takes fast action in the event of an accident. When a fall is detected, the system automatically sends an email alert to caregivers, allowing for prompt intervention and reducing the risk of prolonged injury or delays in medical attention. Finally, regarding welfare, WalkGuard addresses the basic human need for care and security. By keeping caregivers informed of potential accidents, the system ensures that assistance can be provided in a timely manner so that meets the fundamental need for personal safety. The balance between encouraging user independence and offering caregiver support contributes a higher quality of life for both individuals.
Part B: … with consideration of social factors.
By promoting greater independence in mobility, WalkGuard empowers users to engage more fully with their communities improving their social inclusion. Many visually impaired individuals face isolation due to their reliance on others for safe navigation, which can limit their participation in social, cultural, or economic activities. WalkGuard bridges this gap by providing users with a sense of autonomy, enabling them to confidently participate in daily activities, attend social gatherings, and contribute to their communities without constant dependence on companions.
From a caregiver’s perspective, WalkGuard helps ease the emotional and social burden of providing constant care. In many societies, the care of individuals with disabilities is often placed on family members, which can strain social relationships and limit the caregivers’ ability to engage in their own social or economic activities. By allowing caregivers to monitor the safety of their loved ones remotely, WalkGuard enables them to maintain their roles in the workforce or social circles without the anxiety of being unavailable in case of an emergency. This product encourages a more balanced relationship between caregivers and visually impaired individuals, promoting healthier social dynamics and reducing the potential for caregiver burnout. Furthermore, in regions with limited access to assistive technologies, WalkGuard offers an affordable, accessible solution that helps equalize opportunities for visually impaired individuals across different economic backgrounds.
Part C: … with consideration of economic factors.
The WalkGuard system focuses on a cost-effective solution to address the mobility challenges faced by visually impaired individuals. Traditional assistive technologies, such as guide dogs or human caregivers, can be prohibitively expensive, with ongoing costs for training, maintenance, or caregiver wages. WalkGuard significantly reduces the economic burden by providing a single, wearable device that combines multiple functions—obstacle detection and emergency alerts—into one affordable package. Using a cost-efficient components like the K-LD7 radar sensor, microcontroller, and GPS hardware, the system is designed to be both effective and accessible to a broad range of users. Mass production of the vest and integration with smartphone technology ensures that WalkGuard remains affordable without sacrificing quality. This enables wider adoption among low-income users who may otherwise lack access to advanced assistive technologies. Moreover, by reducing the need for constant caregiver supervision, WalkGuard helps alleviate labor costs for families and institutions. WalkGuard also aims to improving independence for visually impaired individuals.
A was written by Eleanor, B was written by Zhixi and C was written by Connie.
