GPS or global positioning systems utilise satellite technology to navigate and pinpoint location and determine distance, direction and route. A range of GPS systems are now available either as standalone units with downloadable maps or through software that is downloaded to an appropriate GPS receiver which has speech or Braille functions to be used by individuals that are blind or vision impaired to travel independently. A individual with vision impairment will need to purchase the GPS receiver and the software required to get the information from the GPS receiver.
Features may vary between models and software with examples below:
- route planning including direction and distance
- highlighting of local landmarks, features, places of interest, shops or restaurants
- ‘live’ directions as you move advising ‘turn for turn’ where you need to go to get to destination
- verbal or Braille display of information
- maps of metropolitan and rural locations for Australia and other countries can be purchased and downloaded
- upgradeable features to accommodate technology changes and geographic changes
- accuracy is approximately within ten metres of a person’s exact location.
Other features:
Some versions of hand held talking GPS systems can also be upgraded to have PDA (personal digital assistant) and note taking functions eliminating the need to carry two pieces of equipment.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
GPS systems are part of everyday work life in a large number of professions where travel is required. GPS receivers are not generally accessible to individuals who are vision impaired or blind, however, a number of companies now develop software which uses their own equipment to speak or display information from the receiver in Braille.
Talking GPS systems may allow individuals who are vision impaired to increase both their safety and independence when working by enabling them to attend meetings or appointments within the community whilst having the extra security when travelling of knowing exactly where they are without having to rely on others for directions.
Other products which can assist individuals with a vision impairment when travelling for work include:
References
HumanWare 2005 - 2011, Trekker, HumanWare, Baulkham Hills, viewed 20 March 2011, http://www.humanware.com/en-australia/products/gps/trekker/_details/id_88/trekker.html.
HumanWare 2005 - 2011, BrailleNote GPS, HumanWare, Baulkham Hills, viewed 20 March 2011, http://www.humanware.com/en-australia/products/gps/braillenote_gps/_details/id_89/braillenote_gps.html.
Quantum Technology 2007, StreetTalk Accessible GPS, Quantum Technology, Sydney, viewed 20 March 2011, http://www.quantech.com.au/streettalk.
Vision Australia 2010, Talking GPS Systems, Vision Australia, Enfield, viewed 20 March 2011, http://www.visionaustralia.org.au/info.aspx?page=1241.