A haptic soundscape map of the University of Oregon

Abstract

A course jointly taught with Geography and Computer Science designed the first haptic soundscape map of the University of Oregon campus. An electronic haptic soundscape map is a cartographic representation that is experienced through auditory cues and haptic (dynamic touch) feedback from the hand and fingers. The primary users of this map are blind and visually impaired persons. The goals of this student project was to create a tool that could be easily maintained, accessible at the low cost and flexible enough for update and change after research feedback. The outcome of the project is a preliminary version of the University of Oregon campus haptic soundscape map and this is continuing to be improved by students.