New tech launched for accessible travel
Accessible transport has been given a boost, thanks to the launch of new tech, launched this week.
Signapse, Network Rail, South Western Railway, and Whoosh Media have teamed up to revolutionise travel for Deaf passengers, through innovative use of AI and cutting-edge technology.
Signapse has created a solution that can be used by any rail operator, using any preferred digital platform, to translate passenger rail travel information into British Sign Language in video format, in real-time, using advances in AI.
This rail travel information includes departure board information, on platform information, and on-train journey-based information - such as expected arrival times at the next station, train split information, which side of the train to disembark, and travel disruption information.
Customers simply scan a QR code at a station or on a train, using their mobile phone to access rail information relevant to their context - e.g. the train they are travelling on.
The tech was launched at London Waterloo by Sophie Woolley, the popular Deaf performer currently playing Lady Stowell in Bridgerton.
Sophie said: “It’s a great honour to be here today at this First of Kind launch, an historic day for Deaf people’s train travel and for the social uses of AI technology.
“I became totally deaf as a young woman. I’m speaking and signing in Sign Supported English today. I rely on AI every day, continuously for my access. I am so excited there is this new type of deaf friendly AI I can add to my everyday use.
“Often I feel like I’m the only Deaf person in a space, and I miss crucial information. This new technology feels like being upgraded to first class - I finally feel welcome in public spaces.”
Peter Whale, Project Manager at Signapse, added: “Our goal with this endeavour is to transform the rail travel customer experience for Deaf passengers, by providing up to date and relevant travel information, in British Sign Language - BSL.
“BSL is the first language of choice for many Deaf people in the UK, and we can all appreciate, I am sure, that having relevant and timely information available in our preferred language has a massive positive impact on our ability to access services and to participate fully as a citizen in society and everyday life.”
Funding for this project was provided via InnovateUK as part of a larger ‘First of a Kind’ demonstrator initiative, on behalf of the Department for Transport (DfT), designed to bring advances in innovation to the rail industry.