Wheelchair Accessibility Mapping Project
Empowering mobility through AI-powered accessibility mapping. Real-time data to navigate cities with confidence.
Everyday Barriers, Invisible to Many
Hidden Obstacles
Daily, wheelchair users encounter unexpected barriers from inaccessible sidewalks, broken curb cuts, and steep ramps that aren't visible to those without mobility challenges.
Information Gap
Traditional maps don't display critical accessibility information, forcing wheelchair users to navigate with uncertainty or take lengthy detours.
Our Solution
We're creating a comprehensive accessibility map that provides real-time, accurate data on wheelchair-friendly routes throughout urban environments.
Check our map on google
Loading...
AI-Powered Assessment Technology
1
Capture
Images and videos of sidewalks collected via smartphones or drones by community volunteers.
2
Analyze
AI-powered object detection evaluates barriers including curbs, stairs, narrow paths, and surface quality.
3
Map
System integrates with Google Maps to mark difficult or inaccessible locations in real-time.
4
Update
Continuous data improvements ensure information stays current and increasingly accurate.
The Technology Behind Our Platform
1
1
Object Detection
Computer vision identifies obstacles with precision
2
2
Real-Time Integration
Seamless connection with Google Maps API
3
3
Data Processing
Cloud-based analysis for instant results
4
4
Open Architecture
GitHub Pages and Google Sheets for transparent access
Our platform combines advanced AI with accessible technology, creating a sustainable system that grows more intelligent with each contribution while remaining open and accessible to all.
Crowdsourced Data Collection
Community Powered
Anyone can contribute by capturing and uploading images of sidewalks, creating a diverse dataset that covers more ground than any single organization could.
Smartphone Simplicity
Our mobile app makes data collection as easy as taking a photo, with automatic location tagging and instant submission to our database.
Drone Capabilities
For comprehensive coverage, volunteers can use drones to capture aerial footage of neighborhoods, allowing for rapid assessment of large areas.
Real People, Real Impact
Maria, Software Engineer
"This map has transformed my daily commute. I used to encounter unexpected obstacles daily, but now I can plan reliable routes to work."
Robert, Retired Teacher
"Having accessibility information at my fingertips gives me the confidence to explore new areas of my city that I previously avoided."
Sarah, Urban Planner
"The data has been invaluable for identifying priority areas for infrastructure improvements in our city planning initiatives."
Beyond Navigation: A Social Impact Platform
1
2
3
4
1
Inclusive Society
Creating equitable access for all
2
Informed City Planning
Data-driven accessibility improvements
3
Community Engagement
Mobilizing citizens for social good
4
Technological Innovation
Applying AI for humanitarian purposes
Our project transcends simple navigation tools to become a catalyst for social change. By democratizing accessibility data, we're creating a movement that bridges technology and human needs, driving systemic improvements in urban infrastructure.
Empowering Multiple Stakeholders
Wheelchair Users
Plan safer, more efficient routes with confidence. Avoid unexpected barriers and discover new accessible areas of your city. Contribute to a growing database that benefits the entire community.
Urban Planners & Governments
Access comprehensive data on accessibility gaps. Prioritize infrastructure improvements based on real user needs. Measure the impact of accessibility initiatives over time.
Developers & Researchers
Contribute to an open-source platform with meaningful impact. Enhance AI models for better detection accuracy. Create innovative applications using our accessibility API.
Businesses & Services
Improve accessibility information for your locations. Attract more customers by ensuring your premises are reachable. Demonstrate commitment to inclusive practices.
Technical Implementation
1
2
3
4
1
Front-End Interface
User-friendly map visualization
2
API Layer
Connects services and data sources
3
AI Processing Engine
Analyzes images for accessibility barriers
4
Database Infrastructure
Stores and organizes crowdsourced data
Our technical architecture prioritizes accessibility, scalability, and open standards. We utilize GitHub Pages for transparent hosting, Google Sheets as a flexible backend, and custom AI models specifically trained to identify mobility barriers.
Accessibility Metrics That Matter
Our AI detection system achieves impressive accuracy rates across various barrier types. We continuously improve these metrics through model training and user feedback, ensuring increasingly reliable accessibility information.
Join Our Volunteer Network
1
1
Data Collectors
Capture images of sidewalks and pathways in your community using our simple smartphone app.
2
2
Tech Contributors
Help improve our AI models, develop new features, or enhance our user interface with your coding skills.
3
3
Accessibility Experts
Provide insights on wheelchair navigation challenges and validate accessibility assessments.
4
4
Community Advocates
Spread awareness about the project and help recruit volunteers in your local area.
Implementation Roadmap
1
Phase 1: Pilot Launch
Initial deployment in three test cities with core volunteer teams and baseline AI functionality. Focus on data collection and system validation.
2
Phase 2: Expansion
Roll out to 25 major metropolitan areas. Enhance AI accuracy and introduce advanced features like route planning and obstacle notifications.
3
Phase 3: Global Network
Worldwide availability with multi-language support. Integration with major navigation platforms and development of advocacy tools for systemic change.
Common Questions
How accurate is the accessibility information?
Our AI system currently achieves 85-95% accuracy in identifying common barriers. We combine this with human verification for critical areas and continually improve through user feedback and additional training data.
How can I contribute if I don't use a wheelchair?
Anyone can help by collecting images of sidewalks, contributing to code development, spreading awareness, or providing financial support. The more diverse our contributor base, the more comprehensive our mapping becomes.
Is my data private when I use the app?
We prioritize privacy. While location data is necessary for mapping, personal user information is never shared. Photos are processed for accessibility features and then anonymized in our database.
How do you ensure the map stays up-to-date?
Our system flags data based on age, prioritizing regular updates for high-traffic areas. Temporary barriers are marked with expiration dates, and user reports can trigger verification checks.
Create More Accessible Cities Together
Together, we're using technology to break down barriers and create cities that work for everyone. Join our growing community of contributors and help make wheelchair accessibility visible, actionable, and universal.