Design in Society: Utopian Designs

Whether in the car or on the curb, everyone is bound to encounter a traffic signal system once in their lifetime. These designs are not meant to restrict an individual’s freedom to walk whenever they wish. Instead, these designs are meant to keep citizens and the society safe, especially for the blind and the deaf; they are essentially utopian designs invented to improve society.

To begin with, the deaf have the disadvantage of not being able to hear incoming traffic at busy intersections. One way of overcoming this obstacle is by following those around them, crossing whenever others cross. However, as many of us have experienced – or even done ourselves – people occassionally ignore traffic signals, risking their lives by racing across the street before unyielding cars reach the intersection. Even if the deaf turn to their vision for help, large vehicles parked in the streets can obstruct their view of speeding cars. Similarly, without their ability to see, the blind have to rely on their hearing in situations like these. With all the noises emitted from car engines, people talking, and the roaring wind, distinguishing sounds of cars passing in front from the sound of cars passing from the side can be a difficult task. These disadvantages of the blind and deaf are adequately alleviated with the newer design of the pedestrian traffic signals which incorporate visual and auditory elements.

The visual aspect of these traffic signals come in the form of familiar symbols. For instance, when pedestrians are supposed to stop and refrain from entering the crosswalk, the traffic signal on the opposite side of the street will signal a red open hand. The color red is often associated with warnings of danger and reminders for caution, and the open hand signal is frequently used by police officers and everyday individuals to tell others to stop or slow down. Additionally, when it is safe for people to cross streets, the iconic symbol of a person walking is displayed on the traffic signal screen. It is also important to note the use of symbols rather than words. Symbols can be easily learned through repeated encounters whereas words require more time especially for young children. Moreover, some traffic signals (like the one pictured above) feature a number countdown. This provides pedestrians with advance knowledge of how much time they have left for safe and priority crossing.

Adding to the visual aspect of the modern traffic signal for pedestrians is its auditory element. These devices emit clicking or chirping sounds to indicate to pedestrians when and when not to cross streets. If the "clicks" and "chirps" repeat at a high frequency and volume, this signals for people to cross. If the sounds are slower and softer, this signals for people to stay on the curb. Evidently, this particular feature benefits the blind tremendously.

Although the incorporation of visual and auditory elements seek to make traveling safer for the blind and deaf, the design of the modern traffic signal system ultimately improves society as a whole, making a progressive step towards a utopia.

*Image taken from Precision Solar Controls Inc.