As technology rapidly evolves, UK innovators are harnessing it to improve life for the disabled. From communication apps to navigational aids, new assistive tech grants greater mobility, independence and access across Britain. For those with physical, cognitive or communication limitations, these latest innovations are truly life-changing.
One exciting development is technology for improved mobility around towns and cities. British wheelchair manufacturing company RGK has integrated advanced functionality so wheelchairs can smoothly traverse diverse urban landscapes. Their Speediathletic wheelchair uses all-terrain wheels and flexible axles to easily roll over obstacles like kerbs and bumpy pavement. Meanwhile, London-based start-up Neodrives designed the Atlas Wheel-Drive to power manual wheelchairs more efficiently up slopes and over rough ground.
In addition to hardware, specially-designed apps are delivering greater mobility for the visually impaired. Britain's own Goodblind offers an audio navigation app using AI and crowdsourced data to guide users in urban areas. Be My Eyes, designed by UK developer Ross Atkin, enables blind users to call trained volunteers for real-time assistance with tasks when out and about. The Royal National Institute of Blind People's own RNIB Connect Radio service provides audio navigation instructions to help listeners get around.
Some cutting-edge assistive tech is aimed at improving quality of life at home as well. Manchester-based TrueLink is rolling out a pilot scheme to install monitoring sensors for vulnerable people that detect activity levels and alert caregivers if anything seems amiss. UK home automation company Cocoon has developed wireless kits to remotely control lights, temperature and other devices through easy voice commands or smartphone apps.
Artificial intelligence and augmented reality also hold huge potential to aid British disabled people in the near future. Researchers at the University of Cambridge are developing real-time augmented navigation displays to overlay visual directions right into a user's field of vision. Public-private initiatives like Innovate UK are funding pioneering smart home tech startups looking to increase accessible solutions.
While more progress remains, innovations like these provide optimism for greater accessibility and inclusion across Britain. As researchers collaborate with disabled communities to understand their needs, new tech can help knock down barriers and expand possibilities for all.
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