Researchers at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh have built Alyx, a robot that teaches autistic people to recognise social cues. Learning to identify and process these facial expressions is critical to workplace interactions. The team plans to turn the Alyx prototype into a full-bodied, autonomous version, operating in a mock workplace, with clinical trials then planned. http://www.straitstimes.com/world/social-robot-could-help-autistic-adults-find-work
A new mobile phone app called Navability is being developed that helps wheelchair users find the best routes to travel based on their ability. It will make it easier and safer for people who use a wheelchair to get around. The first maps are being produced at the University of Wollongong. http://digitallivinglab.uow.edu.au/portfolio/navability-app/
The HexHog is an off-road wheelchair offering unprecedented access to extreme terrain including hills, mud, snow and shallow water. This battery powered machine offers the freedom to go places you wouldn?t have dreamed possible. It allows wheelchair users or those with limited dexterity to enjoy the countryside and back country wilderness. www.hexhog.com
For individuals on the autism spectrum, the bright lights and loud sounds of a busy supermarket can cause sensory overload. In response to customer feedback, Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) in partnership with Coles, has rolled out "Quiet Hour" in 68 supermarket stores today to make the shopping experience a little easier.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-11-21/coles-rolls-out-quiet-hour-to-help-shoppers-with-autism/9176272
Starting with the 5 dollar note this year, Australia's Reserve Bank is releasing new notes which are a world first. Most noticeably they have a clear vertical strip down the middle, which houses various security features that become visible when the note is tilted. They also include a "tactile" feature, so people who are blind or vision-impaired can distinguish between different denominations.
