Experiments with a Public Transit Assistant for Blind Passengers

摘要

Public transportation is key to independence for many blind persons. Unfortunately, in spite of recent accessibility progress, use of public transportation remains challenging without sight. In this contribution, we describe a system that provides enhanced travel-related information access to a blind bus passenger. Users of this system can select a specific bus line and desired destination on a regular Android smartphone or tablet; are notified when the bus arrives; once in the bus, they axe informed of its progress during the route; and are given ample advance notice when the bus is approaching their destination. This system was tested with four blind participants in realistic conditions.