Light-Access, the transmission of audiovisual accessibility services through light, is the first project undertaken by researchers from the Department of Electronic Technology and RoboticsLab affiliated with the Chair. The objective is to develop a communication system based on visible light from ambient LEDs (VLC) capable of carrying embedded audio and/or text information to provide instructions to the user. In this way, the system would improve the efficiency of professionals with physical or mental disabilities or learning limitations during the learning process and in their daily work, thus enhancing their employment inclusion and quality of life.
This involves harnessing the invisible data signal associated with the photons that the human eye perceives as light, incorporating accessibility services into the ambient lighting of buildings. Users can access the information transmitted by this system using a small optical receiver that collects visible light and decodes the data. The information sent from the transmitter is then transmitted through speakers, headphones, glasses with a built-in visor, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc. This system can be integrated into the workstations of people with sensory and/or intellectual disabilities, providing them with personalized and discreet accessibility services.
LED lighting was chosen because of its unique ability to switch on and off millions of times per second, a speed far exceeding what the human eye can detect, as we perceive light as constant even when it carries additional information (voice, images, video). The signals are emitted in binary code, and the technology can transmit a signal even when the light appears to be off.
An example of how the Light-Access system could be used is by a blind person who, through a small receiver connected to headphones, could receive instructions on how to perform certain tasks in their work by means of a light signal illuminating their desk. Text information could also be provided via a mobile device to people with hearing impairments. The benefits of this solution could be extended to other potential users, such as newly hired employees or immigrants with language difficulties.
Furthermore, the system has other potential applications beyond the workplace, such as facilitating access to leisure and cultural events by offering information in museums, as well as in airports, subway stations, hospitals, etc.
Innovative technology with numerous advantages
The advantages of this type of communication compared to other wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, etc., are that it is a safe system from a user health perspective and inexpensive, as it utilizes the building's existing lighting infrastructure and readily available, easily replaceable, and cost-effective optical and electrical components. It is a system confined to the area illuminated by the LED light, does not interfere with other types of wireless communication such as those mentioned above, and does not require any prior authorization for installation since it uses part of the unlicensed electromagnetic spectrum.
The project is innovative in its conception and implementation, but, moreover, the technology developed will bring added value to the lighting infrastructure of public buildings and other infrastructure, an area that has been largely unexplored until now. It is a technology that can serve as a completely free base infrastructure for establishing communication networks in indoor environments.
Research Chair in Accessible Technologies
Light-Access is the first R&D project developed by the new Indra-Adecco Foundation Chair for Research in Accessible Technologies at UC3M. Professor of Electronic Technology, José Manuel Sánchez Pena, is the Chair's director, and its activities are based at the university's science park.
The aim of the chair is to carry out research, development, and technology transfer activities in this field, as well as training and outreach. Raising public awareness of the role new technologies can play in creating suitable work environments that facilitate access to employment for people with disabilities is also important.
This brings the total number of Research Chairs in Accessible Technologies established by Indra, as part of its corporate responsibility and commitment to innovation, to eleven. These chairs are launched in collaboration with the Adecco Foundation and various Spanish universities. In addition, three other chairs have been created in Latin America. The objective of these chairs is to research and develop new solutions and services that facilitate access to technology and the social and professional integration of people with disabilities.
The new Chair also strengthens Indra's relationship with UC3M, with which it signed a framework agreement in 2013 and launched a Cybersecurity Chair this year. For over ten years, both institutions have collaborated on various R&D projects. Furthermore, Indra maintains a close relationship with UC3M's governing bodies, such as its Social Council.
