A guiding device and method to provide information about a path traveled
by a user. The device features a cane having a magnet mounted on a distal
end. The magnet is attracted to a magnetic pathway formed on a walking
surface by a buried cable or applied surface. Nodes positioned at points
or intersections along the magnetic path have magnetic switches
triggering a broadcast of additional information to the user concerning
the magnetic path at the triggered node and along any divergent magnetic
paths extending from the node. The device and method can be used to aid
visually impaired and even sighted people around areas of residence such
as homes and hotels, and public places such as airports and zoos.