Tactile graphics revised: The novel BrailleDis 9000 pin-matrix device with multitouch input

Abstract

We describe the novel BrailleDis 9000 pin-matrix device. The refreshable device allows to present tactile graphics on a matrix of 60 times 120 pins. The pin-matrix device is made up of a newly developed type of vertical Braille module allowing for a compact assembly of all necessary components. Additionally, the pin-matrix device is touch sensitive and capable of detecting multiple points of contact. Using multitouch features, novel multimodal interaction cycles can be realized with the Braille display, such as a bi-manual sweep. © 2008 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.