CYBERPHYSICAL SYSTEM “SMART CUP” FOR PEOPLE WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS

Abstract

This article is devoted to the justification and design of an innovative cyber-physical system “Smart Cup,” specially developed to increase the autonomy and safety of visually impaired people in the process of preparing and consuming beverages. The paper analyzes the current state of the problem, which is characterized by a rapid increase in the number of people with visual impairments on a global scale, which is projected to reach 703 million people by 2050. The authors examine in detail the neurophysiological basis for compensating for lost visual functions through the mechanisms of cross-modal plasticity of the brain, where auditory and tactile analyzers begin to play a leading role. It has been established that the brain's ability to reorganize and reprogram visual areas of the cortex to process signals from other senses creates a fundamental basis for the implementation of high-tech assistive solutions. The article presents a critical review of existing analogues, such as liquid level indicators, as well as various “smart” assistive technologies, and proves that most of them have limited functionality, focused only on information notifications. Unlike known means, the proposed cyber-physical system is based on the integration of nine interconnected subsystems that provide comprehensive process control. The key scientific novelty of the development is the conceptualization of the multimodal interface “Zero-Visual UI,” which for the first time combines dynamic tactile indication of changes in the texture of the body with voice accompaniment within a single device. The system architecture is based on a three-level hierarchy, which includes a physical level with a network of sensors for liquid level, temperature, weight, pressure, and turbidity, a middle level based on an energy-efficient ESP32 controller, and an upper cybernetic level in the form of a specialized mobile application. Particular attention is paid to the intelligent safety circuit, which automatically locks the drinking valve when dangerous steam pressure is detected, and the hygiene control subsystem, which uses optical turbidity sensors to verify the cleanliness of the cup. As a result, the developed concept transforms a simple household device into a complex intelligent system that provides blind people with complete protection from burns, accurate ingredient dosing, and confidence in their daily activities, contributing to the development of an inclusive environment and improving quality of life.