Infrastructure-Based Audible Crosswalk Systems
Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS)
APS are devices installed at traffic intersections to make pedestrian signals usable for blind and visually impaired people. They provide:
• Locator tones: Repetitive sounds that help pedestrians locate the push button.
• Audible WALK signals: Either beeping or spoken messages announcing when it’s safe to cross.
• Vibrotactile arrows: Raised arrows on the button housing that point in the crossing direction.
• Automatic volume control: Signals adjust their loudness based on surrounding noise.
• Extended press functions: Holding the button longer can trigger extra features like audible beaconing or longer crossing times.
• Audible beaconing: A louder signal from the far end of the crosswalk to help people orient during the crossing, especially at wide intersections.
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Polara Systems
Polara manufactures several modern APS devices and accessories:
• iDS / iNS: Standard APS units that give audible and tactile crossing information.
• Wireless Ped System (WPS): A solar-powered, wireless system for adding APS without digging up streets.
• iNX: Designed for unsignalized crossings, it provides audible crossing cues in lower-energy settings.
• Bulldog Button: A rugged, vandal-resistant APS push button for heavy-use areas.
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Polara PedApp®
PedApp® is a free smartphone app (available on both iOS and Android) that connects with Polara’s APS devices. It lets pedestrians:
• Find intersections with APS nearby.
• Increase locator tone volume remotely to help find the crosswalk.
• Activate pedestrian signals without physically pressing the button.
• Receive walk/don’t walk announcements and countdowns directly through their phone, with vibration feedback for added safety.
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Audible Beacon Device (ABD)
The ABD is an add-on module for APS systems that improves orientation for blind and visually impaired pedestrians. Features include:
• Louder beacon tones from the far side of the crosswalk when requested.
• Flexible installation on poles or signal heads at various heights.
• Customizable audio with day/night volume settings and programmable voice messages.
• Bluetooth setup for easy programming without special tools.
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Mobile App Solution
OKO App
OKO is a smartphone app that uses the camera to detect pedestrian signals at intersections. Instead of relying on built-in APS hardware, it provides accessibility anywhere a signal is visible. It offers:
• Audible tones to indicate WALK or DON’T WALK.
• Haptic feedback (vibrations) for when it’s safe to cross.
• Visual display with colors (red, green, yellow) for low-vision users.
• Countdown detection when signals include timers.
This app is especially useful in areas where APS infrastructure hasn’t been installed.
Quick Summary
Technology Description Type
APS (general) Intersection-installed devices with locator tones, audible WALK signals, tactile arrows, and beaconing features Infrastructure
Polara APS Systems Range of products like iDS, iNS, WPS, and iNX for different crossing environments Infrastructure
Polara PedApp® Mobile app that pairs with APS to control signals and provide audible updates Mobile + Infrastructure
Audible Beacon Device (ABD) Add-on that boosts orientation with louder beacons and custom voice messages Infrastructure
OKO App Standalone phone app that reads crosswalk lights using the camera and provides audio/vibration cues Mobile
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The Resource Plug 