FUNCTIONAL INTERIORS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS 4(2+2)

Lesson 28 : Independent Living Needs and Technology Solutions

Possible Technical Solutions

The following are the possible technology solutions to the needs mentioned above:

Exterior Access

• Electronic door locks that require little strength or dexterity
• Motorized window locks and openers
• Voice activated intercom that uses micro-video camera and interfaces with house-wide TV system
• Global-positioning system with voice prompting to assist in wayfinding for people with visual impairments

Kitchen/Bathroom/Laundry

• Automatic shut-off circuit for cook top that shuts off heat when pot is removed or after designated (programmable) time period has elapsed
• Conveyor system that brings stored items to a height easily reachable by a wheelchair user
• Portable robot for heavy lifting (kitchen)
• Motorized refrigerator shelves that extend out of the open refrigerator
• Remote control for cook top and oven
• Attractive personal transfer device (e.g., Hoyer-type lift) that can be easily stored when not in use

Child Care

• Keypad-controlled lock for childproofing dangerous areas
• Mechanized crib to assist in lifting infant onto lap
• Raised bath tub for bathing infant from wheelchair

Appliance Controls and Displays

• Talking controls on appliances
• Central TV system with visual and audible feedback on household system functions (e.g., furnace on/off)
• Power backup systems to minimize impact of power failures
• Audible/voice feedback on graphical user interfaces

Information Processing and Communications

• Graphical user interface with audible voice output suitable for use by visually impaired people
• Internet access available with voice output