Audible Spatial Descriptions for Accessible AV Navigation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with visual, hearing, mobility, and cognitive disabilities face challenges in navigating and accessing autonomous vehicles (AVs) due to the complexity of existing systems, which often require advanced assistive technologies and lack user-friendly interfaces, leading to inequitable access and increased reliance on others for travel.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing UWB technology for precise location and communication between a UWB anchor on the AV and a UWB tag carried by the user, combined with a translation module and application on a computing device, to provide accessible navigation, environmental control, and safety features for AVs, ensuring consistent interaction across different brands and models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex assistive technology systems are used to provide navigation and vehicle access information, then measurement precision and information accuracy are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary translation module that converts complex spatial and environmental data into simplified audible descriptions. This mediator layer processes location information from UWB anchors, environmental sensor data, and navigation routes, then translates them into human-friendly audio cues that users can understand without needing to comprehend the underlying complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces visual and tactile interfaces (mechanical interaction) with an acoustic interface. Instead of requiring users to interpret visual displays or tactile feedback from complex devices, the system substitutes these with audible spatial descriptions that are naturally accessible to users with visual and cognitive disabilities, simplifying the interaction model.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple assistive technologies are integrated to provide comprehensive navigation support, then adaptability and functionality are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal interface layer that handles multiple functions through a single consistent interaction model. The translation module serves as a multi-functional gateway that processes navigation guidance, environmental awareness, vehicle access information, and safety alerts through the same audible description mechanism, eliminating the need for users to learn multiple separate systems or interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple information streams (location data, environmental sensors, navigation routes, vehicle status) into a unified audible output. Instead of presenting separate information from different systems, the translation module combines these diverse data sources into integrated spatial descriptions that provide comprehensive navigation support through a single cohesive interface.
3Measurement precision
If precise location tracking and detailed environmental information are provided, then measurement precision and information completeness are improved, but loss of information and processing complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing spatially-specific information only where and when needed. The translation module analyzes the user's current location relative to the vehicle and environment, then generates audible descriptions focused on locally relevant features (such as door locations, obstacles, or navigation cues) rather than transmitting all available data, reducing processing load while maintaining precision for critical information.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances the ability of individuals with disabilities to independently and safely navigate indoor and outdoor environments, improving access to transportation and reducing reliance on others by providing precise location, secure access, and customizable vehicle controls.
Implementation Method 1
A system and method utilizing UWB technology for precise location and communication between a UWB anchor on the AV and a UWB tag carried by the user
Data Source
AI summary
An accessible and usable mobile device application is provided herein that integrates with a technology network designed to increase an ability to orient, locate and travel within indoor and outdoor physical environments independently, safely, and securely for people with sensory disabilities and the aging population who have visual, hearing, mobility, and/or cognitive disabilities.