Abstract for Tactile Graphics 2005

Title: TeDUB: a new method for providing auditory and haptic access to technical diagrams for blind people

Presenter: Helen Petrie, Neil King and Pete Pavan

University of York, Designed for All, UK

Abstract:

The TeDUB system (Technical Drawing for Blind People) is a new method for providing access to graphic information for blind people, using synthetic speech, sounds and force-feedback information from a joystick. Currently certain types of visual diagram, such as electronic circuit diagrams, UML (Unified Modelling Language) diagrams and architectural floorplans, can be automated processed by the TeDUB system and presented to the user. A variety of features to allow users to navigate through the diagram (Text View, Map View, Spatial Navigation View, Walkthrough) and explore the information have been developed. This paper presents an overview of the TeDUB system, some of the work carried out in developing the user requirements for the system, and evaluations of the system by blind people. Advantages and disadvantages of the use of traditional tactile diagrams, diagrams presented via a touch sensitive pad (e.g. the NOMAD system developed by Don Parkes and similar systems) and the TeDUB system will be discussed.

Objectives of presentation:

Outline a new method to make tactile diagrams accessible to blind people
Provide a very high level introduction (not technical) of the technical approach used
Outline how blind people can interact with the diagrams using this method
Present information on the evaluation of this system by blind people
Compare this system with traditional tactile diagrams and NOMAD-type systems

Outcomes for audience:

understand the TeDUB method to make tactile diagrams accessible to blind people
understand how blind people can interact with the diagrams using this method
understand strengths and weaknesses of this system in comparison to traditional tactile diagrams and NOMAD-type systems

Prior knowledge of topic assumed: Low

Contains advanced technical content: No

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