Abstract for Tactile Graphics 2008

Title: Audio-Tactile Graphics: impacts of hand movements on graphic design

Reference: P7-B

Presenter: Christopher Power

University of York, UK

Abstract:

With audio-tactile displays such as the IVEO (Viewplus) and the Talking Tactile Tablet (Touchgraphics) becoming more popular, there is a need to understand the constraints on graphics formatting that are imposed by having to detect finger positions for reporting correct audio information. The instinct is that thicker lines and larger objects would be better suited to this purpose; however, this would limit the amount of information that could be presented in any one graphic.

In this presentation, an empirical experiment showing the finger positions of 10 participants on a variety of lines and objects dispels these notions, showing that due to the way the hand explores a tactile scene during pointing and steering tasks there is little difference between successful detection of larger or smaller objects.

Objectives of presentation:

To introduce the graphic design issues that have been anecdotally reported regarding audio-tactile graphics.
To introduce the experimental method used to explore the use of the hand in navigating a tactile diagram.
To report the results and the implications they may have to tactile graphic design.

Outcomes for audience:

Knowledge of audio-tactile graphic devices
Knowledge about fundamental movements of pointing and steering
Knowledge about the impact that hand pointing and steering having on tactile graphic design.

Prior knowledge of topic assumed: Low

Contains advanced technical content: No

Back to the day 1 programme
Back to the day 2 programme

Back to the 2008 conference home page