In a previous work [1] the design of a reader device for blind people was presented from the algorithmic standpoint. In this paper we will discuss the study, design and development of its evolution toward an embedded appliance. Two hardware platforms will be analyzed, considering their pros and cons respect to the target application, based on image processing algorithms and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs). The comparison will take into account the available computational power, the power consumption, the ease of interfacing with other devices and the overall development cycle.

A feasibility study will be outlined and, in the end, one platform will be selected as the base for the proposed reader device for blind people. Run-time performance results of the software running on such platform will be reported.