To: Internet:nfb-rd@nfbcal.org
Greetings:
Here are some of my thoughts on this subject.
First, since my experience and background lie in the area of
computers and related technology, let me put in a plug for research
that works to develop and enhance non-visual means of interfacing
with the beast. This can include such things as developing more
intelligent speech (artificial intelligent) output as a supplement
to video displays and tactile graphics output as a means to feel
pictures and other shapes. Some far fetched ideas might include
developing a means whereby one can communicate with the computer
through a direct neural link--something that only science fiction
writers dream of today. But then again, why can't we dream, too?
In the nearer term, I think that serious research should examine
the question of whether or not an intelligent reading and
interpretation system can be developed. I would envision such a
system used to read all manner of video displays and perhaps
hardcopy too. Today's current crop of reading technology can
hardly be classified as intelligent. All operations are mostly
controlled by the user with all of the interpretation being done by
that same user. Why not a reading system that is almost as
intelligent as a human reader?
Perhaps looking in even closer, we should encourage research into
the development of a refreshable, real-time, dynamic tactile
display that can produce lines, dots, curves, circles, etc. Such
a device would really give us a handle on feeling pictures and the
like. Other research, dare I say it, in the psychological and
educational fields, is necessary to find the best means to teach
blind children how to work with and feel comfortable with tactile
drawings and other representations that attempt to convey three
dimensional information on a two dimensional surface. I myself,
having never grown up with pictures, have a great deal of trouble
feeling a tactile drawing and recognizing something as simple, say,
as a window with curtains.
On a more practical vein, I dearly wish that somebody would develop
a portable, easy to use, nonmagnetic compass. Yes, I know that
tactile magnetic compasses are available for a fairly reasonable
price. However, these devices are next to useless in urban
environments, which are replete with metallic objects that create
an inordinate amount of magnetic deflection. I would view such a
device as a first step down the road of developing a more
comprehensive travel aid that might be used in conjunction with
global positioning systems.
Dr. Cranmer's wish to have a tactile pencil is, in my view,
something for which we should continue to press. Such a device
would prove extremely handy for tactually marking stoves and other
appliances.
We need to develop a concise document stating what features in
consumer electronic devices we find helpful and what features we
don't find helpful. As we know, appliances such as microwaves,
VCR's, televisions, stereos, and even the ubiquitous telephone are
becoming increasingly complex. Having buttons we can feel and
press by touch will not alone solve the problem. What happens if
pressing one button changes the functions of all the rest? For the
sighted, there is a display which clearly indicates what the
function of each button is. Not so for us. So, what other
features should we push for? Speech output (This alone could take
pages)? Beeps? And if beeps, where and when? We can go to
manufacturers and say, in general, that we wish their devices would
be made accessible to the blind. But what does this mean in
practical terms that can be converted into design specs?
I think that about wraps up my thoughts for now. This should prove
to be an interesting discussion topic at our meeting.
Regards,
Curtis Chong
73443.1351@compuserve.com
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : Sun Dec 02 2012 - 01:30:03 PST