What is Audible Beaconing?

 

Introduction

Audible beaconing is a functionality incorporated into certain Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) and becomes operational only when pedestrians utilize the extended press feature, which is initiated by holding down the button for more than one second. Accessible pedestrian signals (APS) employ sound, raised arrows, and vibration to communicate changes in Walk, Pedestrian Clearance, or Don’t Walk status to visually impaired pedestrians. Unlike basic push buttons devoid of sound or vibration, APS ensures users are not left in uncertainty, wondering if their call has been registered. This uncertainty can be particularly challenging for visually impaired individuals. Audible beaconing goes beyond indicating when the walk signal is active; it also articulates the location of the opposite side of the road. According to the MUTCD, audible signals are designed to assist pedestrians in “hom[ing] in on the signal that is located on the far end of the crosswalk as they cross the street” (Section 4E.13.04).

Destination Beaconing

The Audible Beacon Device by PedSafety facilitates audible beaconing at intersections, making it particularly advantageous for expansive, high-traffic intersections or those lacking Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS). When APS messages or tones are required to comply with MUTCD and ADA guidelines, the ABD functions as a speaker, transmitting essential messages to assist pedestrians in safely navigating street crossings.

 

True Destination Beaconing

Achieving advanced broadcasting functionality and authentic destination beaconing is exclusively possible through the utilization of the Audible Beacon Device paired with an accessible pedestrian signal like our Guardian. Functioning as an auxiliary programmable speaker, the audible beacon device is specifically crafted to aid visually impaired individuals in navigating straight within the crosswalk. It emits a distinctive beacon tone discernible to pedestrians during the pedestrian clearance period, eliminating the necessity for a phone app for assistance. The volume of the ABD auxiliary speaker can be independently adjusted, ensuring pedestrians can hear tones spanning from the first lane to the conclusion of the crosswalk, thereby assisting visually impaired individuals in remaining within the crosswalk boundaries and preventing unintended entry into the street. The ambient gain control feature further modulates volume levels based on the surroundings, preventing any disturbance to businesses or neighborhoods.

 

In the Crosswalk

It is important to note that the initiation of the Audible Beacon Device relies solely on the extended press, resulting in infrequent activation, making it unlikely to cause objections from neighbors. It’s imperative to emphasize that this device functions as a supplement rather than a replacement for the APS station or push button, enhancing their capabilities.

Within the pedestrian clearance interval, specifically near the end of the initial lane within the crossing, individuals receive a discernible destination beacon tone emanating from a strategically placed speaker at the crosswalk’s end. This distinctive, rhythmic tone serves as a guide for visually impaired pedestrians, enabling them to navigate confidently along the designated crosswalk path. By homing in on the destination beacon, pedestrians can adjust their trajectory, ensuring they remain within the confines of the crosswalk until they safely reach the ultimate destination point at the crosswalk’s conclusion.

 

Outside of the Crosswalk

Crafted with metro applications in consideration, the Audible Beacon Device extends its utility to furnish informational messages tailored for transit and light rail scenarios. While existing studies explore app-based communication for the visually impaired, these solutions fall short when faced with challenges like low battery, no service, or the absence of a smartphone, limiting inclusivity and accessibility. The Audible Beacon Device, on the other hand, seamlessly collaborates with any push button, efficiently relaying transit schedules and updates. As you contemplate enhancing inclusivity and accessibility at your metro station, this device emerges as a superior alternative, bridging gaps where traditional apps may falter.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, audible beaconing, an integral feature in certain Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS), revolutionizes the pedestrian experience, particularly for visually impaired individuals. This technology, activated through an extended press, provides clarity and assurance in signaling changes in pedestrian status. Audible beaconing transcends the mere indication of walk signals, extending to articulate the opposite side of the road, enhancing navigation for those with visual impairments. The incorporation of Audible Beacon Devices, exemplified by PedSafety’s innovation, takes this functionality to new heights. By complementing APS with true destination beaconing, these devices ensure advanced broadcasting functionality, offering a distinct beacon tone during pedestrian clearance, and guiding individuals along the crosswalk path.

Crucially, the Audible Beacon Device addresses challenges faced outside the crosswalk, contributing to metro applications by delivering informational messages for transit and light rail scenarios. As we embrace these advancements, it becomes evident that the Audible Beacon Device not only enhances accessibility within crosswalks but also emerges as a superior alternative for promoting inclusivity and accessibility at metro stations, bridging gaps where traditional methods may fall short. In essence, these innovations mark a significant leap towards creating more inclusive and navigable urban environments for everyone.