Hi, we are CROSSYROADS,

Our team proposes the development of a wearable IoT device that will aid elderly people with physical impairments to cross the road safely. The wearable IoT device is equipped with a user control time extension feature that allows users to extend the pedestrian traffic signal time by 5 or 10 seconds when they require addition time. The manual extension feature is accessible via a button that will occupy the entire device interface for easier access so that users can easily press when they need more time to cross the road. For visually impaired users, the device notifies through vibrations when the pedestrian signal countdown reaches a certain threshold, allowing the user to be aware of the time remaining on the pedestrian signal timer. Our device can be used along existing assistive technology found in most pedestrian signals. In Seoul, there's a beeping audio coming from the signals, allowing the user to estimate the remaining distance to the other side of the road based on the decreasing volume of their starting point, and the increasing volume of their end point. With the signals' audio cues and our device's vibrations indicating the counter is almost up, they are able to safely assess their distance from the end point and decide if they need a time extension to cross the road safely.  For mobility-impaired users, such as those using crutches, cast, or who are wheelchair-bound, the device works as a ‘remote control’ to manually extend the pedestrian signal time when they realize they are unable to cross the road within the allotted time. The user control feature allows users to operate the device using a simple button press, without the need for complicated interface or additional equipment. ​ We aim for the government to subsidize the cost of the wearable device for the elderly and physically impaired, with coverage for loss or damage. For temporary impairments, payments are to be covered by insurance or rental options, with a deposit required for property protection, replacement or repair costs. Ideally, the device should be linked with the government's traffic agency to ensure seamless communication and data collection between our wearable device and the pedestrian signal. We suggest initial testing in areas with high elderly pedestrian populations, with further expansion based on feedback and effectiveness.