Guidance System for the Blind problem statement Existing way-finding systems for the visually impaired are often very awkward or difficult to use. Maps are large and clumsy and difficult to carry. A significant opportunity exists in making the process of learning the spatial organization of a new space without the user becoming to dependent on the system. Travel can be very confusing for the blind because spatial comprehension and vision are so integral in our society. A systematic method of discerning the physical environment and the organization space could dramatically benefit the visually impaired. A human beings primary means of directional information is visually oriented. A person who does not have the visual sense must rely on other senses and cues. These are the senses of touch, hearing, and smell. The area threshold of the visual sense is greater than the area of the tactual sense. A cane extends the tactile threshold. An opportunity exists to crate a device that extends the visually impaired persons understanding of the spatial organization of an unfamiliar place. This information will aid in the finding of a specific destination of the user. Tactile mapping is one way a space can be represented yet the maps are awkward to use in conjunction with a cane. The cane would be difficult to replace with a tactile map because the information from the cane is real while the map is symbolic. final design The final concept is a spring-loaded scroll that fits on the cane of the user. A hook at the end of the canvas connects to the users belt loop to hold the canvas in tension. Embossed braille maps fit into the canvas. The canvas curves as it is pulled out from the scroll adding stability to the map. Although many ideas were explored, I developed this concept because it is an inexpensive, low-tech solution that is feasible today.