Disability Technology & News

Handheld Assist People with Cognitive Disabilities Ride the Bus

A customized handheld device with a GPS module aims to help a person with cognitive disabilities catch a bus. Using prototype software from AgentSheets, it sends a prompt to get ready when the bus is approaching (left) and another when the bus is at the stop (right).

Here is an interactive flyer on this technology. Additional information can be seen here.

Mobility Agents for People with Cognitive Disabilities

AgentSheets, Inc. is currently exploring the use of wireless handheld computers as customizable prompting devices that enable people with cognitive disabilities use public transportation. As a practical concequence, we developed a running prototype of the Mobility Agents architecture that recognizes and reacts to simple situations. For instance, if the desired bus is approaching a waiting traveler, the prototype generates an appropriate multi-modal prompt that notifies the traveler that their bus is approaching. As a theoretical contribution, we developed a novel theoretical framework called the Pragmatic Web to turn raw data available on the Web to personally meaningful information that is relevant to the individual user.

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