Evaluation of Layouts for Braille Guidance Blocks under Different Situations in Sports Facilities

Abstract

This study made pedestrian models and layouts of Braille guidance blocks based on an interview with a goalball player and previous studies in order to determine appropriate arrangements in sports facilities. A simulation on walking efficiency was conducted under different conditions combining different situations of spectators' moving with different layouts. There are two types of patterns of moving objects: Pattern-A, in which only visually impaired athletes are allowed to move on the floor, and Pattern-A+B, in which both visually impaired athletes and sighted spectators are allowed to move on the floor. In addition, there are two types of layouts of Braille guidance blocks: Layout-1 is a linear arrangement of them, and Layout-2 is a rounded linear arrangement of them. The results of the simulation showed that there were no significant differences of walking efficiency between Layout-1 and Layout-2 under the conditions of Pattern-A or Pattern-A+B. Furthermore, there were no significant differences of walking efficiency between Pattern-A and Pattern-A+B under Layout-1 or Layout-2. These results show the effectiveness of the linear arrangement of Braille guidance blocks in sports facilities for visually and non-visually impaired people.

Revolutionizing Accessibility: Smart Wheelchair Robot and Mobile Application for Mobility, Assistance, and Home Management

“…3) Communication Device with Home Management System: Despite notable advancements in smart wheelchair technology, as evidenced by previous studies [87], [88], [89], [90], [91], [96], there remains an urgent need for the integration of language translation and smart home capabilities. This need is particularly crucial for individuals who are blind, deaf, or mute, as it can significantly improve their daily routines.…”