TransLink’s new technology pilot to help customers with sight loss better navigate transit system

Credit: TransLink

TransLink has announced that it is testing a new accessibility tool – the very first of its sort in Canada – that can aid shoppers with sight decline greater navigate the transit method independently.

Starting up in late February 2023, prospects can download the NaviLens app through the Apple Store or Google Participate in to scan specialised coded decals, resembling QR codes, at 3 transit destinations. The moment the decals are scanned, the app provides audio guidance that manual clients to bus stops and correct details of decide-up. The app can also recognize nearby facilities, such as lifts, and supply actual-time details alerts.

The audio wayfinding software lets buyers with sight loss to effortlessly get information and facts from the codes:

• Codes can be scanned from up to 14m away
• No emphasis is essential to scan codes
• Codes can be scanned in all gentle situations
• The application can be made use of while the shopper is shifting.

“By bringing this superior wayfinding engineering to Canada for the very first time, we’re aiming to build a a lot more inclusive practical experience and empower our riders to navigate the transit technique with ease and protection,” reported TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “These forms of progressive jobs exhibit our commitment to improving upon accessibility for all clients all over the region.”

This program is in use all-around the environment – in cities this sort of as New York Metropolis, Liverpool, and Madrid – to aid persons with sight decline uncover their way in public spaces, such as transit units, rail stations and searching centres.

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In overall, 16 codes have been put in at 3 TransLink areas:

• 10 bus bays at New Westminster SkyTrain Station
• 4 bus stops in close proximity to the CNIB place of work in New Westminster
• Two bus stops around the VCC campus on East Broadway in Vancouver.

“Implementing this test technology exhibits TransLink is functioning to be certain its consumers with sight reduction can journey independently and confidently,” reported Accessibility for Sight-Impaired Consumers President Rob Sleath. “This undertaking aims to enrich the talents of these with sight decline by supporting them travel during the TransLink system.”

In 2022, TransLink started installing braille signage at each bus halt – around 8,400 – throughout Metro Vancouver. In addition, tactile walking floor indicators are getting put in at every bus halt on TransLink-owned and leased house.

The Obtainable Navigation Task will run for six months and will be evaluated for foreseeable future expansion all through the area.