IT device displays graphics and text in Braille A novel tactile device displaying simple graphics and text in Braille has been developed for use by the visually impaired to assist with IT functions and Internet access in particular. Digital Economy © Shutterstock The ITACTI project has designed software tools to permit information to be converted to a form that is appropriate for tactile display. The information technology needs of the visually impaired were thoroughly examined to pinpoint shortcomings. The categories that were examined were safety, quality, electromagnetic compatibility and cost. An example of this is the Braille display units. Although these are considered to be well-developed, they have two shortcomings. One is that they offer limited information thereby lacking the ability to display graphics or mathematical functions. The other limitation is that they are considerably expensive. The new device, known as the ItactI display unit, by contrast has the capability of displaying a single line of Braille text comprising of forty or eighty characters. It contains a tablet composed of 128x64 tactile pins that are made to individually rise in response to the corresponding information which is to be displayed. The pins are spaced apart equally which permits graphics and text to be displayed at the same time. The device's specifications were established by researchers who are in contact with potential users. A marketing study consisting of a detailed questionnaire was conducted in four European countries with responses indicating a strong need for the new device. A main benefit expected is improved access to most IT (Information Technology) equipment. Other benefits include on-line shopping and on-line information provision will be made more affordable and employment opportunities will be improved. Such benefits will help improve the overall quality of life for the visually impaired.
