Final Interior Render
Render by John Pham
Accessibility Autonomous Shuttle
Project Team
Product Theme
SJSU Research Foundation X Toyota Boshoku accessibility autonomous shuttle project
Date
January 2020 - December 2020
Prof. John McClusky - Industrial Design Lead
Dennis Lui - Industrial Designer
John Pham - Industrial Designer
Kai Bannister - Industrial Designer
John Michael - Industrial Designer
About
As we strive towards a greener future, an increasing number of consumers seek solutions that not only save time but also prioritize convenience. The emergence of level 4-5 automation technology presents an opportunity to minimize the presence of cars and ride-sharing services on the roads, thereby reducing congestion, improving environmental sustainability, and enhancing overall city efficiency.
This project represents a collaborative effort involving a team comprising students and professors from diverse disciplines including mechanical engineering, occupational therapy, and interactive engineering at SJSU.
Project Brief
Our mission in this project is to design and build an autonomous shuttle that prioritizes accessibility for all. We're focused on creating a user-friendly and inclusive transportation solution, incorporating features like wheelchair ramps and intuitive interfaces to serve diverse mobility needs.
Research and Inspiration
3 Primary Wheelchair Users
we've organized mobility users into three specific groups: Transferable wheelchair, Non-Transferable wheelchair, and Crane/Walker users. Each group reflects distinct requirements and obstacles when it comes to accessing transportation services.
Welcoming
Fostering a welcoming environment for accessibility is crucial to promoting inclusivity and ensuring everyone feels valued and respected. Embracing accessibility not only accommodates diverse needs but also cultivates a sense of belonging and equality within our community.
Convenient
Ensuring convenience is essential to creating a seamless and user-friendly experience for everyone involved. By prioritizing convenience, we aim to streamline processes and minimize barriers to access, making interactions more efficient and enjoyable for all.
Platform Layout
The vehicle platform, based on an electric universal design, accommodates various vehicle types. Specifically designed for accessibility, the autonomous platform comfortably supports 4 wheelchair users with added convenient features.
During the development stage, our primary focus was to optimize the overall interior design experience. Every aspect, from entering the vehicle to seating arrangements and storage solutions, was meticulously crafted with the principles of accessibility in mind. Our goal was to ensure that every element of the interior design not only prioritized convenience but also seamlessly integrated accessibility features to enhance usability for all passengers, including those with mobility challenges.
Sketch Exploration
Design Iteration Render
Personal render showcases various features emphasizing convenience, accessibility, and fun, tailored to meet the needs of individuals with mobility disabilities. Each element is meticulously designed to enhance usability and ensure ease of use for all users, regardless of their mobility challenges.
Platform Mockups
Our seating system prioritizes safety and comfort for all riders. With extendable seat belts for larger wheelchairs and a adjustable seat belt buckles, passengers feel secure during transit. Wheelchair locking mechanism cater to the needs of transferable wheelchair and crane users, enhancing their overall experience.
Enhanced Safety
The side console features a range of convenient amenities, including an ergonomically designed S-shaped curved grab bar, a retractable table for work, and an extendable screen for infotainment and riding information. Passengers can also benefit from a wireless charging pad, a Braille display for visual impaired users, and a dedicated cup holder, all aimed at enhancing convenience and accessibility during travel.
Shoulder Console
The final platform layout positions the wheels towards the ends of the shuttle, maximizing interior space for an open and airy environment. The battery platform serves as the main frame structure, akin to modern electric cars, ensuring safety and efficiency in operation.
Final Platform layout
The final design seats seperated in to 3 sections. Head rest can be extended to ensure confirm of the passenger, back section can be push back, and the bottom cushion can be fold out to fit non transferable wheelchair users, ensuring versatility and accessibility for all passengers.
Fit to all wheelchair types
Toyota Boshoku CES 2023 Presentation