[nabs-l] Blind can take wheel with new vehicle

[Robert Jaquiss]

Hello:

     In response to the comments regarding a car drivable by a blind person; 
As a member of the Committee on Research and Development, I believe this is 
important research. It is important that we the NFB are involved with this 
sort of project. Efforts are underway to create autonomous vehicles. Two 
such efforts were the DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) 
Grand Challenges of 2005 and 2007. The 2007 challenge showed that it was 
possible to build a vehicle that could navigate in an urban setting. In the 
coming years, I am confident that there will be vehicles that will drive 
themselves. These vehicles will use a variety of technologies including GPS. 
One thing that will be needed is a way for an operator to get his/her 
vehicle onto a road or maneuver in a parking lot. These activities could I 
think be done by a blind person given the appropriate adaptations. Being 
involved with those doing this sort of research helps ensure that are needs 
are considered when developing new technologies. As an organization, we must 
be proactive and get involved with product developments, so we can continue 
to effectively function in society.

     In the past, it was possible for us to create alternative techniques in 
response to technological developments. With the rapid changes in our world, 
we must be more involved, so we can for example have appliances that we can 
use, computer operating systems that are accessible, accessible cell phones 
etc. A personal vehicle would be of great help in getting to work, school or 
wherever else we want to go.

     The technologies described in the article could also benefit those in 
wheelchairs. Like it or not, we have an aging population. Wheelchair 
mobility is difficult and users must take great care not to roll down steps 
etc. Some sensors might mike their lives easier.

Regards,

Robert Jaquiss