Wayfinding systems – Assistance Technology
Tactile ground surface indicators provide sensory feedback about changes of conditions.
Sound, touch & augmentation
Technologies and fittings to assist those with a vision or hearing impairment. There are two main categories of devices to assist with disability access in Australia – passive and active.
Passive systems and technologies
These do not require power sources or infrastructure.
Tactile ground surface indicators (TGSI’s)
Raised domes and stripes placed on the ground to provide information about change in direction, level, a crossing or hazard. Used for edges, stairs and overhead obstacles as well as locations of building entrances and exits. These are a statutory compliance.
Train station tactile ground surface indicators
Raised tactile and braille signage systems
Raised tactile signs and braille signs allow people with low vision to trace letters and symbols to read the sign by touch.
There are strict Australian standards for compliance applying to location, text heights, embossing depth, braille type, and luminance contrast.
Dynamic systems and technologies
Portable devices
Such as:
Directional compass
Infrared/ultrasonic obstacle locator
Enhanced cane
GPS position locator with voice over capability
Talking digital map systems
Mobile phones, iPads (Google Maps)
It is important to understand assistance tech may not be sufficient to independently navigate a site for a vision impaired visitor.
Assisted walking cane
Infrastructure Systems and Technologies
A network of equipment locations across the site provides feedback/information to users and back to the building.
Such as:
Press and listen – play a recorded message
Line following guidance
Directional sound evacuation – an audio system that aids evacuation
Remote infra-red activated audible message
Remote radio frequency audible signage – play message via loudspeaker when within range
Online digital information and map
Wayfinding signs are ideal for incorporating sensors and technology as they are usually located in main traffic corridors at critical junctures facing the audience in close proximity. Power and connectivity need to be considered as part of the strategy.
“Non-visual navigation”