Ideation
UX for Digital Civics
Data Capture Methods for VIPs in FAVs
Overview
This research aims to understand the travel experience of visually impaired people (VIPs) in the UK public transportation system to inform accessible, user-centric designs. The primary objective is to develop innovative data capture methods to support the advancement of autonomous vehicles (AVs) into fully autonomous vehicles (FAVs) for visually impaired people (VIPs).
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Research
Ideation
Sketching
Presentation
Interview
Sketch of a Smart Cane for VIPs
Target Users
VIPs
Year
Summer 2024
Category
UX Research
Challenges
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Visually impaired people (VIPs) face challenges navigating the UK public transportation system, including unclear communication, disorganized layouts, and a lack of accessible tools for guidance.
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Safety concerns and past incidents heighten VIPs' anxiety about FAV reliability, complicating trust in the technology.
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Capturing meaningful data without overloading VIPs' cognitive load is a significant challenge.
Observation Protocol
In Newcastle, we observed a visually impaired person (VIP) navigating travel with the UK's public transportation systems including buses, metros, and tubes. Key challenges included rerouting, uneven terrain, inconsistent bus announcements, and anxiety at unsignalized crossings. While metro maps with Braille aid navigation, VIPs still face physical strain, lack live bus info, and encounter inconsistent assistance options. Accessible information and reliable support are vital for improving their travel experiences.
Map of Metro and Train Lines at Newcastle Station
Data Capture Ideation
To improve the travel experience of visually impaired people (VIPs) in fully autonomous vehicles (FAVs), we proposed a comprehensive data capture strategy
Comparative
Observation
Conduct observations with both VIPs and able-bodied researchers to compare where VIPs perceive the need for assistance versus where researchers identify potential assistance points.
Independence Evaluation
Track moments when VIPs pause for assistance, such as stopping to check a phone, asking for help, or showing signs of confusion. This will help measure their independence and pinpoint where they need the most support.
Cognitive Load & Stress Measurement
Use a pressure-sensitive cane grip handle to gauge stress levels and a push-button for self-reporting experiences, recording journey locations, and following up with post-interview questions.
Consistency & Simplicity
Create a journey map of multiple transit lines to compare and contrast the external assistance available to VIPs. This will help identify gaps and areas for improvement in providing seamless travel experiences.
Smart Cane - Proposal
Sketch of a Smart Cane for VIPs
To enhance data capturing and achieve our goal of improving the travel experience for VIPs, we proposed a smart cane equipped with advanced features. The smart cane will include a pressure-sensitive grip to detect increased pressure during moments of stress or confusion, and a push-button for users to self-report experiences—one push for negative feedback and two pushes for positive feedback. Additionally, pairing the cane with a smartwatch or cardiac sensor, similar to those used by Apple, will allow for heart rate monitoring to provide further data on stress levels. This integrated approach ensures comprehensive data capturing, helping identify critical stress points and areas needing assistance, thereby significantly improving the travel experience for VIPs in FAVs.