Research

"Feely façades"

We are currently involved in a project which provides tactile models of the façades of historic buildings, using terrestrial laser techniques and rapid prototyping to make the model.

Our prototype is of Thornton Abbey, where we have produced and tested with tactile users a model of the figures above the gatehouse. This work is being carried out in conjunction with English Heritage

We hope to carry out some more tests and models soon, possibly with Gainsborough Old Hall.

Multi-modal Interpretation Boards

These will consist of a conventional but large format printed sheet, overlaid with a transparent but low height tactile version. The information presentation will involve a video with audio description and subtitles.

Refreshable Braille Tablet

We are developing a refreshable braille tablet which will be about A4 in size and display diagrams and braille. This will be electronically fed with information and in effect will be a braille e-book.

This should prove to be a more effective way of presenting information than the current single line refreshable braille lines. A simpler version will only show braille text.