On the design and application of offline frameworks for investigating the accessibility of indoor spaces for individuals with disabilities

Abstract

Thesis (Ph.D.)-- Wichita State University, College of Engineering, Dept. of Electrical and Computer EngineeringPersons with disabilities (PWDs) face significant challenges when navigating unfamiliar indoor spaces due to physical obstacles such as narrow doorways, uneven flooring, and obstructed pathways, as well as limited signage and the absence of satellite-based positioning systems indoors. These barriers hinder independent mobility and are often compounded by the lack of scalable assistive technologies, particularly during early design phases when physical testing is impractical. Recruiting participants for real-world mobility studies can also be logistically challenging and time-consuming. This dissertation addresses these limitations by developing offline, simulation-based and analytical tools that enable early-stage evaluation of spatial accessibility without requiring live user testing. Two key contributions are introduced: MABLESim, a simulation framework that generates interactive 3D environments from 2D architectural plans to model diverse user navigation scenarios; and AccessQuotient, a graph-based metric that quantifies route usability based on layout complexity, decision points, and predicted wayfinding success. MABLESim supports both standardized simulations and customized, user-defined scenarios, helping identify design flaws that may not be apparent through conventional methods. AccessQuotient complements this by producing interpretable accessibility scores that can inform layout optimization. Together, these tools provide a scalable, repeatable, and user-centered approach to accessibility assessment. By reducing reliance on physical testing and providing actionable insights into spatial usability, this dissertation advances inclusive design practices and equips architects, planners, and accessibility professionals with methods to create more navigable and human-centered indoor environments from the earliest stages of planning