Now we have all seen the vibrant yellow system of lumpy blocks (possibly at the station platforms, or on the streets) that helps pedestrian feel with either their shoes, or with a cane. I came across them before back in Vietnam (although they weren't necessarily yello), and the frequency rose significantly after I came to Japan.
Everyone kind of knew what they are for, for visually impaired pedestriants. But what we didn't really know, is that it's called Tenji blocks (or tactile pavements), and was invented by Seiichi Miyake, originially with the intention to help a friend who was losing their vision.
According to CNET reports,the Tenji block was first invented in 1965, but it was not until March 18th, 1967 that it was first installed, near a school for the blind in Okayama, Japan. The invention quickly gained recognition, and was soon applied to railway stations, and then other government buildings.
How it actually works
It's actually quite amazing how well thought-off and useful these blocks are.
The elongated and round (oval) lines indicate the direction and location. Hence, it runs along the route, where as the "warning" blocks with the lumpy spheres indicate places that require extra caution (for example, edges of the station platforms). You can easily distinguish and understand the underlying message (without consciously knowing).
Its importance in everyday life
Briefly saying, the Tenji Blocks opened up new mindsets regarding mobility. Not only did it create new virtues for people who are visually impaired, but also, allow them to have safe, full, and equal access to navigation (especially in urban areas).
As a result, we can see it being applied and elevated to new gates of possibilities, namely, bicycle lanes, transportation markings, flight of stairs, sidewalk pavings and many more.
You can read more at https://bit.ly/2Hu1Zee
And of course, for those with predilection (fetish) for colorful things like me, or is a huge fan of Wizard of Oz (also, me), there's no questioning the yellow brick road.
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