Path Robotics receives Global Disability Inclusion seal for hiring veterans

Artificial Intelligence is significantly enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities, transforming lives by breaking down long-standing barriers. AI-driven tools are improving communication for the hearing impaired and providing navigation aids for the visually impaired. In mobility, autonomous vehicles and smart wheelchairs offer unprecedented independence. Moreover, AI integration into systems like smart cities is fostering inclusivity. However, ethical development is crucial to avoid reinforcing biases. Collaboration between tech companies, advocates, and policymakers is essential to ensure AI meets the real needs of people with disabilities, promoting a future where accessibility is a fundamental consideration in technology. #AI #Accessibility #DisabilityRights #InclusiveTech #AssistiveTechnology #SmartCities #EthicalAI #TechForGood #AutonomousVehicles #Inclusivity

Artificial Intelligence is significantly enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities, transforming lives by breaking down long-standing barriers. AI-driven tools are improving communication for the hearing impaired and providing navigation aids for the visually impaired. In mobility, autonomous vehicles and smart wheelchairs offer unprecedented independence. Moreover, AI integration into systems like smart cities is fostering inclusivity. However, ethical development is crucial to avoid reinforcing biases. Collaboration between tech companies, advocates, and policymakers is essential to ensure AI meets the real needs of people with disabilities, promoting a future where accessibility is a fundamental consideration in technology. #AI #Accessibility #DisabilityRights #InclusiveTech #AssistiveTechnology #SmartCities #EthicalAI #TechForGood #AutonomousVehicles #Inclusivity

This WHYY "You Oughta Know" tv segment about adapting motorized cars for children with disabilities at Easterseals highlights what is possible when Jefferson U students from the very different disciplines of Industrial Design and Rehab Sciences are given the chance to work together. It was a joy to once again collaborate with Lisa Gray and her film crew to tell this story: Eric Schneider Kim Mollo Stephanie Muth

📰 https://lnkd.in/g5y4HatB As someone who is committed to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities, I find this development incredibly interesting and exciting. This article highlights a new $41 million project, led by researchers at Northeastern University and ATDev, to create an autonomous wheelchair with an integrated robotic arm. For so long, assistive technology in this space has lagged, but this initiative represents a monumental leap forward. We're talking about AI-powered autonomous navigation that can handle complex outdoor environments and a robotic arm to assist with daily tasks like eating, opening doors, and grocery shopping. This is exactly how AI and robotics technologies should be leveraged in the disability sector. This is the future of disability support, and I am eager to see more innovation evolve in this space. #DisabilitySupport #Innovation #NDIS #Robotics #AI

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts has partnered with La Trobe’s Centre for Technology Infusion (CTI) and iMOVE Australia Cooperative Research Centre to develop new guidance materials for: - developers of Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs), and - public transport operators and service providers.   The aim: ensure people with disability are front and centre in the design and deployment of CAV technologies and services. What the report covers: 1. End-to-end journey focus Guidelines structured around each stage of a person’s public transport journey – from trip planning, wayfinding and boarding through to riding and disembarking – to help manufacturers, operators and policy makers design CAVs and services that are genuinely accessible. 2. Innovation opportunities A summary of current research across six priority innovation areas, with practical examples and ideas to inspire further development and pilots. 3. Global transport standards and guidelines An overview of key international guidance on accessible public transport to help align local CAV deployments with global best practice. 4. Globally aligned vehicle specifications A set of vehicle specification benchmarks derived from international accessibility standards. These ‘globally accepted values’ are designed so that vehicles built to these specs can meet, or exceed, requirements across multiple jurisdictions, including Australian legislation and standards. If you’re working on CAV technology, public transport planning or accessibility policy and would like to know more, feel free to reach out.   https://lnkd.in/gs5YEZjZ La Trobe University | School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, La Trobe University | Wenny Rahayu | Aniruddha Desai | Erik van Vulpen | Shanmuga Sundar Dhanabalan

We hope that this report inspires the industry and helps to avoid costly mistakes made by traditional modes of transportation CCAT - Centre for Connected & Automated Transport Partners for Automated Vehicle Education (PAVE) Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts

Self-driving cars are changing how we move. But a new study warns that accessibility gaps could leave disabled users behind. People with disabilities already face countless transportation inequities and want more than just technology—they need trust, safety, and real support. It’s time to design these vehicles to be accessible for everyone. Features like easy boarding and clear communication aren’t extras—they’re essentials. Let’s bring disabled voices into every step of the process. When we design for those with the greatest need, everyone benefits. https://lnkd.in/eXvrnRF3

At a time where self-driving vehicles are making headlines, we’re excited to be working with Anthrometric as part of the #Connector2 project to make sure that automated passenger services are designed with disabled people. If you live in or around Cambridge, identify as Disabled, Deaf or Neurodivergent, have a long term health condition, or care for someone who does, we want to understand your experiences and requirements to ensure the accessibility of these services. The research will take place in Cambridge from the 24th to the 26th of November, last an hour and will combine virtual reality with a focus group. You will of course be paid for your time. You can find out more about the research and register your interest here: https://lnkd.in/eFZQp9ef

If automated buses are to become part of our public transport networks its is crucial we ensure equity of access. In the #connector project we are working with Anthrometric and RiDC (Research Institute for Disabled Consumers) to understand how travellers who are Disabled, Deaf or Neurodivergent can access and use automated buses. If you are interested in taking part in this important work please follow the link in the post below. Greater Cambridge Partnership Zenzic Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles Innovate UK Gemma Schroeder

Today we hit Launch! For the better part of the year, we have been working on a new program, The Disability Inclusive Program Seal helping companies know what to do and when as they navigate their journey in disability inclusion. Today we recognized two companies who have participated in the program Michaels Stores and Path Robotics. Now companies have a clear roadmap with experts by their side helping them along the way. #Innovation #HumanResources #RoadMap #Inclusion ID: A chart showing the three levels of the seal. Advancing a company's timeframe is 0-2 years, they are laying the foundations, policy updates, hiring programs, training and initial accessibility review. Leading a company is at 3+ years showing sustained effort. Program goes beyond hiring and accessibility audits and are engaging the community. Transforming is 5+ years showing embedded strategies, sector leaders, receiving external recognition and sharing their learnings with others.