I ask two experts how technology can support urban areas in enhancing their inclusivity and accessibility during the planning and design stage , beyond ticking legal boxes .
Accessible transportation
We have seen a slow adoption of technology in accessible transportation . A few governing bodies have adopted tools such as Sm @ rt Technology ’ s Sm @ rtbus app which aids those with visual impairments . Offering audible announcements of stop names and bus schedules to enhance inclusivity .
Although most trains and planes are happy to help and have ramps and other equipment available with advanced digital booking , with these features having to be ‘ added ’ in by request , this may make people with disabilities feel like they are asking staff ‘ to go out their way ’.
This is where ‘ Universal design ’ comes in . This term involves creating products , environments and systems that are accessible and usable by people of all abilities , without the need for adaptation or specialised design .
Planning
Designers can utilise digital technologies and online resources to integrate the concept of Universal Design .
With BIM being available and utilised by most building engineers and architects , it should be encouraged that the planning stage does more than simply tick boxes . In ‘ Reasoning about accessibility for disabled using building graph models based on BIM / IFC ’, Barbara Strug and Grażyna Ślusarczyk , state : “ While the design tools usually support the legal requirements for accessibility for disabled persons , little effort has been observed to address the quality of the access routes in terms of time , length and convenience of the route to be taken .”
Infrastructure
Accessible infrastructure may include considerations such as ramps and elevators , but even these features have room for improvement . Technologies can enhance the user experience by making them more reliable , offering digital warnings of whether they are out of order or simply making travelling from one side of a building to another a more streamlined journey . Otis ONE IoT platform is an example of a technology that enables a seamless system for people to access their office buildings , go through security , remotely call an elevator and arrive at their locations without ever touching a button .
Other features that enable people with disabilities to navigate public spaces independently can also include road safety . Portsmouth City Council recently introduced SmartCross + technology , aiding pedestrians and cyclists , particularly those with disabilities through a smartphone app activation and low-level cycle signals offer safer crossings .
Smart Car Parks and AI should also be considered in the planning stage as they can offer information on available spaces , whilst estimating availability from previous data , in advance of an excursion .
Assistive tech
It ’ s all well and good , popping in ramps , toilets and parking spaces , but in the name of equity and experience , there are several devices , tools and software that councils , tourist spots and designers place after the planning stage .
Whilst attending a public space , the experience for the visually impaired can sometimes be lacking . Companies like VocalEyes provide recorded descriptions at museums , galleries and heritage sites , providing a key access tool for blind and visually impaired people . A recorded guide can support visitors to access and navigate your site and exhibitions at a time which suits them .
There is untapped potential for more advanced versions of audio guides in public spaces through the integration of IoT and AI in the planning stage for a more advanced experience and to encourage people into new spaces .
HOW CAN TECHNOLOGY IMPROVE URBAN PLANNING TO CREATE MORE INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES ?
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