Sensory maps 2.0: New approaches and visualizations in support of sensory processing disorders

Individuals with sensory processing disorders (SPDs) face challenges in wayfinding due to heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli like noise and lighting. Although sensory maps have aided SPD individuals by aligning navigational routes with sensory needs, standardized protocols for creating these maps are lacking, with current methods largely qualitative.

This study aimed to establish a standardized, quantitative protocol for sensory map creation, evaluating sound, brightness, and crowding density in a healthcare setting to enhance map precision and support future automation.

Sensory data were collected from the 1st and 17th floors of a large urban ambulatory care center in New York City. A qualitative spatial audit was initially conducted, followed by quantitative measurements of sound (decibels), brightness (lux), and crowding density at designated nodes. Using Python, we developed Voronoi diagrams to visualize intensity distributions across floorplans, applying statistical methods to ensure data accuracy and consistency.

Qualitative assessments identified high-stimulus areas, particularly in the main lobby and elevator zones, which aligned closely with quantitative findings. Brightness peaked in central, naturally lit areas, while noise levels were highest near heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and entry points. The quantitative method enabled a more nuanced representation, enhancing map detail and reliability.

The developed quantitative protocol offers a robust framework for sensory mapping, improving accessibility for individuals with SPDs in complex spaces. This approach holds potential for automation, addressing current reproducibility limitations and advancing inclusive design in public and healthcare settings.