DENVER ― Sept. 16 ― Beginning today, people with visual impairments have a new way to experience the Denver Museum of Nature & Science thanks to EdgGuide, a micronavigation system that allows near pinpoint accuracy for indoor navigation.
“Widespread adoption of technology like EdgGuide is key to solving the opportunity gap for people with disabilities seeking to participate in the modern world,” said Mike Hess, founder and executive director of the Blind Institute of Technology, who has been blind since he was in first grade. “It’s hard to put into words the emotions that swirl when I think of all the opportunities EdgGuide will create for those with visual impairments. Personally, the ability to independently explore the Museum and the wealth of details that EdgGuide provided nearly brought me to tears.”
Lack of employment opportunities for people with disabilities is a global problem, impacting tens of millions of people in the United States alone. This unequal access to opportunity extends to experiences, products and services that disabled consumers could enjoy and participate in. From schools to airports, hospitals to museums, existing accessibility measures simply do not enable equal access, denying businesses the opportunity to meaningfully connect with and serve these communities.
EdgGuide levels the playing field by unlocking a new level of accessibility for physical spaces, offering an unparalleled user experience for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Using wall-mounted anchors, a wearable tag and an iOS application, the EdgGuide system allows those with visual impairments to independently navigate through a public space, providing point-of-interest information along the way with an accuracy of 20 centimeters. The feature senses where a user is standing and offers detailed information about exhibition elements and other Museum amenities.
“CACI has a long and proven history of solving tough challenges with innovative technology, and in the case of EdgGuide, life-altering innovation,” said Phil Hatch, director at CACI. “It’s exciting to know the impact this technology will have when it’s put into service at public venues worldwide, such as in museums, airports and sports arenas.”
“Every day, the Museum team works to provide meaningful experiences for everyone who comes into contact with us. EdgGuide allows us to take a giant step forward in providing ways for individuals with visual impairments to independently go where their curiosity leads during their visit,” said George Sparks, President and CEO of the Museum.
Pop-up demonstration, Sept. 17
The Blind Institute of Technology and CACI will host a pop-up demonstration of the EdgGuide micronavigation system during Denver Startup Week on Tuesday, Sept. 17, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Capital One Café, 1550 Wewatta St.
Onsite demonstrations upon request
Demonstrations of the EdgGuide micronavigation system at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and other locations, such as newsrooms, are available by appointment. Contact [email protected] to schedule.
About the Denver Museum of Nature & Science
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is the Rocky Mountain Region’s leading resource for informal science education. Our mission is to be a catalyst and ignite the community’s passion for nature and science. The Museum offers a wide variety of engaging exhibitions, programs, activities and scientific research to inspire public appreciation and understanding of the wonders of Colorado, Earth and the universe. The Museum is located at 2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO, 80205. Information: dmns.org or 303.370.6000. Many of the Museum’s educational programs and exhibits are made possible in part by the citizens of the seven-county metro area through the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District. The Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Connect with the Museum on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About CACI
CACI provides information solutions and services in support of national security missions and government transformation for Intelligence, Defense, and Federal Civilian customers. A Fortune World’s Most Admired Company, CACI is a member of the Fortune 1000 Largest Companies, the Russell 1000 Index, and the S&P MidCap 400 Index. CACI’s sustained commitment to ethics and integrity defines its corporate culture and drives its success. With approximately 22,000 employees worldwide, CACI provides dynamic career opportunities for military veterans and industry professionals to support the nation’s most critical missions.
About Blind Institute of Technology
The Blind Institute of Technology™ (BIT) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing workforce development and inclusive employment solutions that prepare people with disabilities, and the employers who hire them, for success in the workplace. BIT targets technology that enables equal opportunity.
###