Knowledge representation in our computer information age is not in a useful display for the visually impaired. The blind person is especially disadvantaged when pursuing a high level skill, and is required to learn from an ever - changing, expanding, dynamic technology driven culture. They cannot scan tactile information on current published articles. A sighted person must read and describe the information. The goal of this research is to find a combination of piezoelectric materials and surface mount electronics that will, in a unique geometry, produce a reliable large tactile computer controlled display. One form of the display will meet the national specification for Braille. A single prime; mover will provide the up motion for all pins. A piezoelectric latch for each pin, controlled by the computer, holds the pin down or releases the pin. A Modular geometry combines the computer interface components with each tactile pin latch. The volume needed is 10 x 13 x 6 inches deep. Another form of the display will approximate three dimensional surfaces with closely spaced pins, controlled in (x,y,z) three dimensions.Awardee's statement of the potential commercial applications of the research: The display products will provide knowledge access for the blind community. Schools, universities, libraries, governments, and industry will purchase Braille displays to give immediate reading access, to replace the need for awkward Braille books, and to reduce the need for sighted tutors. Braille teaching schools will be able to interest young students in Braille access to computer information. Computer games will be possible. Research centers will purchase (x,y,z) three dimension displays for fundamental research into fast, continuous tactile representation of surfaces. Worldwide, several million dollars/year in sales anticipated.National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
