Harnessing smart assistive technology for practicing and learning Braille

Abstract

The ability to see is something that most people take for granted. Unfortunately, not everyone is as fortunate as millions in the world suffer from visual impairment that affects their daily lives. As there is no substitute for the ability to read and write, Braille is an important tool that the visually impaired (VI) depend heavily on. However, the world has been facing a Braille Literacy Crisis since the 1970s and not being Braille literate limits the opportunities for the VI to contribute to society and achieve a better life. Many assistive technologies have been developed to improve Braille literacy, but there is still a lack of portable devices for Braille learners/VI to practice Braille while also providing immediate translation of a text without the need for touch. Hence, this project aims to design and develop a portable device for Braille learners.

The device, Smart Braille, was designed using SolidWorks and the coding was done using Python. Smart Braille provides real-time reading and translation of text to Braille with auditory feedback and allows users to input Braille to practice. This will assist in improving the Braille literacy of the VI.