Abstract:

The purpose of this paper is to present a novel virtual-reality Braille writer-simulator, which was developed for learning to write Braille. Its novelty lies in the fact that it enables Braille trainers to learn the Braille writing system first, and practice it afterwards, by using a 3D virtual Braille writer. As shown by previous research, full command of the Braille code can improve the quality of life of people with visual impairment at multiple levels. Successful training of the visually impaired on the Braille code largely depends on their instructors. The most common problem for Braille trainers is that they cannot acquire their own Braille writer for improving themselves through practice because of the prohibitive cost of the conventional machines. Therefore, learning and practicing is substantially limited in the Braille school premises. Another disadvantage of conventional Braille writers is that they require frequent and costly maintenance. Moreover, there is always a risk of malfunction due to misuse. All these factor hinder the use of a conventional Braille writer. The obstacles can be readily remedied by using the virtual Braille writer introduced herein.

In my design, the Perkins Brailler served as a model for developing the simulation software. To enhance the gains of the users, the software simulates, apart from the typing of keys, all the control functions and their corresponding sounds. In addition, it detects any false operation which could conceivably damage the Braille writer, and displays the related error message on the screen. The size of the virtual paper is similar to that of a real Braille writer, that is, the simulator can emboss 25 lines with 42 cells on a 8½" × 11" (letter size) sheet of paper. The developed simulation software is a mobile learning application and can run on mobile phones and other portable Android devices.

Keywords:

Braille writer, simulation, virtual-reality, Mobile Learning.