Improvements to human life are becoming a regular occurrence in our society and the Smart Vehicle is a beautiful addition to that trend.
The Smart Vehicle uses different audio controls, a map and laser range finders in order to make the vehicle usable by by a blind person.
The Smart Vehicle was created by students at Virginia Tech and upon second glance it looks to be a beautiful enhancement for the less fortunate.
Implications - This is the kind of high-minded concept cars that we should be thankful our society is producing at a rapid rate. It won't be long before creations like this (those that help the less fortunate) become the norm on the market. Let the countdown begin.
Sightless Drivers
Virginia Tech Students Fix Up a Buggy to be Operated by the Blind
Trend Themes
1. Smart Vehicle Technology - The development of smart vehicles equipped with advanced audio controls and laser range finders offers disruptive innovation opportunities for the automotive industry.
2. Assistive Technology - The rise of assistive technology, such as the Smart Vehicle, presents disruptive innovation opportunities for industries focused on improving the lives of people with disabilities.
3. Inclusive Design - The incorporation of inclusive design principles in automotive engineering, as seen in the development of the Smart Vehicle, opens up disruptive innovation opportunities for creating products that cater to a wider range of users.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - The automotive industry can explore disruptive innovation opportunities through the integration of smart vehicle technology and the development of vehicles that improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
2. Assistive Technology - The assistive technology industry can capitalize on disruptive innovation opportunities by developing more advanced and inclusive products, like the Smart Vehicle, that enhance the independence and mobility of individuals with disabilities.
3. Design and Engineering - The design and engineering industry can embrace disruptive innovation opportunities by incorporating inclusive design principles in the development of products, such as the Smart Vehicle, that address the needs of marginalized populations, such as individuals with visual impairments.