Knowledge representation in our 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. The blind scientist cannot scan large amounts of 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 Array. The tactile pin density must meet the National Library of Congress specification for Braille. An Array size of 25 lines x 40 characters/ line, 6 pins/character, could replace Braille books. A single prime mover will provide the up motion for all pins. A piezoelectric latch, each pin controlled by the computer, holds the pin up or releases the pin to follow the prime mover down. A Modular geometry combines the computer interface piezoelectric driver surface mount components with each tactile pin latch. The volume needed is included in a surface size of 10 x 13 inches, with a depth of several inches.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
1R43MH051972-01
Application #
3503502
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (SSS (B1))
Project Start
1993-09-30
Project End
1994-02-28
Budget Start
1993-09-30
Budget End
1994-02-28
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1993
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Piezo Systems, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02139