The aim of the research project was to identify which types of kerb were best suited for use at pedestrian crossing points with a height of 3cm (an installation height (or step height) of 3 cm means that the upper edge of the kerb's treading surface is positioned 3 cm above the level of the adjacent road) and determine which ground surface indicators were preferred by different groups of disabled people. The project began with an extensive analysis of literature published both in Germany and further afield, with a view establishing some general principles for designing barrier-free crossing points. More information was to be gathered through a comprehensive survey asking blind and visually-impaired people about their experiences with mobility in the street space. The literature analysis and survey that were carried out as part of the research work were taken as a basis for a multi-layered approach that incorporated qualitative and quantitative methods and objective and subjective elements. This approach was to reveal the kerb types and ground surface indicators that blind and visually-impaired people with white canes and users of wheeled mobility aids (e.g. wheelchairs or walkers) would prefer to have installed at crossing points. The research findings confirmed that a kerb installation height of 3cm continued to be a workable compromise, even though it did not fully meet the specific needs of wheelchair and walker users, nor those of blind and severly impaired people. Nevertheless, the findings served as a foundation for recommendations on a suitable kerb design for crossing points, bearing in mind the compromise in terms of kerb height. Measurements and tests of the various ground surface indicators showed which structures would, in principle, be most appropriate for use at crossing points in view of their tactility and the ease of passing over them with a wheeled mobility aid. General and specific recommendations were drawn up on the use and design of kerbs and ground surface indicators at pedestrian crossing points on main roads. These recommendations should be integrated into updated versions of regulations on the subject. The research project also highlighted the need for research into more ways of improving crossing points. (Author/publisher)
Abstract