Spatial representation framework for better indoor navigation by people with visual impairment. Issue 4 (25th September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jeamwatthanachai, Watthanasak; Wald, Mike; Wills, Gary
• Is Part Of: Journal of enabling technologies. Volume 13:Issue 4(2019)
• Page Start: 212
• Page End: 227
• Publication Date: 2019-09-25
• Subjects: Framework -- Visual impairment -- Indoor navigation -- Indoor maps -- Spatial representation -- Unfamiliar spaces; Self-help devices for people with disabilities -- Periodicals; Computerized self-help devices for people with disabilities -- Periodicals; People with disabilities -- Orientation and mobility -- Periodicals; People with disabilities -- Rehabilitation -- Technological innovations -- Periodicals; 617.033
• DOI: 10.1108/JET-12-2018-0068
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2398-6263

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to validate a framework for spatial representation, aka the spatial representation framework (SRF), to define spaces and building information required by people with visual impairment as a foundation of indoor maps for indoor navigation systems. Design/methodology/approach: The SRF was first created with seven main components by a review of the relevant literature and state-of-the-art technologies shown in the preliminary study. This research comprised of two tasks: investigating problems and behaviors while accessing spaces and buildings by visually impaired people (VIP) and validating the SRF where 45 participants were recruited (30 VIP and 15 experts). Findings: The findings revealed a list of problems and challenges were used to validate and redefine the spatial representation, which was validated by both VIP and experts. The framework subsequently consisted of 11 components categorized into five layers, each layer of which is responsible for a different function. Research limitations/implications: This framework provides essential components required for building standard indoor maps as a foundation for indoor navigations systems for people with visual impairment. Practical implications: This framework lays the foundation for a range of indoor-based applications by using this SRF to represent indoor spaces. Example applications include: indoor navigation by people with disabilities, robots and autonomous systems, security and surveillance, and context and spatial awareness. Originality/value: This paper presents the validated spatial representation for indoor navigation by people with visual impairment with its details and description, methodology, results and findings of the validation of the SRF.