Design specifications of audio-guidance systems for the blind in public spaces

Abstract

The government of Fukuoka City conducted a survey to determine the effectiveness of an audio-guidance system for the blind. The blind participants confirmed the usefulness of the audio-guidance. In addition, the blind participants and the walking instructors also provided various comments and suggestions for the better utilization of audio-guidance systems for smoother transportation. In order for the participants to be able to recognize auditory signals, it was important to be able to hear them at their peak volumes. To understand the actual meaning of announcements, however, the average volumes of the signals were more important than their peak volumes. The blind participants suggested that auditory signals and announcements should provide short and simple messages. The walking instructors provided comments regarding the placement of loudspeakers to enhance auditory localization. They recommended hanging the loudspeakers from ceilings located in front of passengers. Furthermore, the necessity of controlling excess reverberations was indicated in order to better enable blind citizens to recognize and localize the auditory signals. It was suggested that using different auditory signals for different purposes and places was effective for smoother transportation.