Enhancing Accessibility in the Built Environment Using IoT-Enabled Smart Sensors

¹ School of Engineering, Frederick University, Cyprus
² Asociacion Empresarial De Investigacion Centro Tecnologico Del Mueble Y La Madera De La Region De Murcia, Murcia
³ Centre of Research and Technology Hellas, Greece

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Abstract

The built environment profoundly impacts daily life, particularly for individuals with disabilities who often face barriers to safe and independent navigation. This review explores how digital twin technologies, combined with IoT-enabled smart sensors, can enhance accessibility in smart buildings and create more inclusive spaces. The objective is to investigate available industry solutions that use current and emerging ICT tools and assess their ability to support individuals with physical or sensory impairments. The study addresses a critical gap in the literature: the limited application of these technologies in public buildings, as most solutions are focused on home environments. The novelty lies in the shift toward leveraging digital twins and smart technologies for real-time navigation, hazard detection, and environmental feedback, especially in public and semi-public spaces. As a methodology, a structured literature review is conducted, supported by comparative analysis and identifying research trends and gaps. Solutions are further classified thematically by disability type, context, and functionality. The results are expected to provide actionable insights into how digital solutions can foster inclusive, user-centered environments. This review offers a short and organized synthesis of technological approaches to accessibility.