Abstract: A system, apparatus and method, consisting of firmware, software, oscillating motors, a garment, and peripherals that permit users to interact over the Internet or wireless communications network with games or each other users whereby the sensation of touch is felt by the garment user. The invention consists of an interactive body suit that covers the torso. Peripheral gloves, socks, and adult entertainment attachments for men and women attach to the interactive body suit in appropriate locations. Small oscillating motors embedded in the garment and the peripherals produce a vibrating touch sensation when activated. Each motor has a logic address on the suit or peripheral device that correlates to a logical point on a computer graphic representing the user. Contact with the graphic will generate a command signal that activates a motor in the corresponding area on the suit. In one application, limb covers with embedded oscillating motors are used to provide medical treatment massage therapy.

Abstract: A Braille input device includes eight keys for entering dot information that forms a Braille character. The device further includes a space key and eight function keys, with a separate function key arranged above each dot key. This allows a user to rapidly and accurately select any desired function key without removing his or her hands from the Braille keyboard. A cursor router key and a Braille display including a plurality of Braille cells may also be provided.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a method of and loom for teaching Braille by weaving with a loom, wherein the levers to move the harnesses are shaped and spaced like the levers on a Perkins Brailler (a Braille typewriter).

Abstract: Various apparatus and methods for an actuator and display using one or more shape memory springs. A shape memory spring is heated and urges a pin to a first or extended position. The pin may be supported in the first position by a supporting mechanism. The shape memory spring is heated electically, and in some embodiments under the control of a processor. The present invention may be used to display information provided in a user interface from a computer program, including text, numerical data, and graphical images.

Abstract: A apparatus and method are provided which assist the use of electronic documents in both a word processor (17) and Braille environment (16). The apparatus and methods facilitate conversion of electronic documents between various formats for subsequent use on word processor equipment (15) and Braille equipment (10) as required. The translation utilizes a temporary file (90, 91) in an intermediary format which retains formatting information relating the manner in which the document should be rendered in each environment (16,17). The transfer of electronic documents is transparent to the user in a manner that it appears only one document is being worked with.

Abstract: A system for detecting tactile information includes strain-gauge touch sensors and a controller. Based on the sum output from each of tough-sensor sensor units, an analyzer in the controller calculates touch force Fi(t) at each measurement point. An automatic gain control adjusts the voltage amplitude Ai(t) of a sine wave of frequency fi applied to the sensor units at each measurement point to bring the voltage amplitude measured at each measurement point in line with a target voltage. The adjusted voltage Ai(t) is applied to the bandpass filter with a composite sine wave y(t) which includes sine waves of each frequency corresponding to the adjusted voltage amplitude Ai(t). This makes it possible to reduce the number of lines between the controller and touch sensors that includes numerous measurement points, and enables the gain of the touch sensors constituted by strain gauges to be controlled within an appropriate range.

Abstract: A portable print reading device includes a high resolution digital camera to which the following additional functions have been added: image centering by tactile or sound information, obtained from the analysis or real time video signals provided by the camera sensor, optical recognition of the characters contained in an image, conversion of recognized text into synthetic speech, conversion of recognized text into Braille, positioning of the reading cursor anywhere inside documents recognized and temporarily stored in the reading device memory: beginning of a page, a paragraph, a line, word search, etc., processing of raw images provided by the camera to allow the transfer of whole images or selected image parts to a tactile graphic array, to allow blind users to apprehend graphic elements of such an image, and control of the camera functions by electrical signals provided by the recognition of commands spoken by the user.

Abstract: This application relates to an electrotactile system and method for delivering tactile stimuli to a skin surface of a user. The system includes one or more electrotactile modules each comprising an array of electrodes electrically connected to an integrated circuit. Each integrated circuit has data processing and current driving capability. The current delivered from the integrated circuit to each electrode is relatively small, preferably less than 4 milliamps. The modules may be connected to a flexible PC board by spring-loaded connectors. In one embodiment a plurality of electrotactile modules may be grouped together to from an electrotactile device. Multiple electrotactile devices may in turn be deployed as part of a wearable article for use in virtual reality, telepresence, telerrobotics or other haptic feedback applications. The system is capable receiving and transmitting tactile data via a communication link, such as a conventional data network.

Abstract: A Braille pin has three parts sharing a common longitudinal axis. A first part has a first breath and includes a rounded tip felt by a user. A second part has a noncircular transverse cross-section and has a breadth greater than the first breadth. A first shoulder is formed by the juncture of the first and second parts. A third part has a third breadth less than the second breadth. A second shoulder is formed at the juncture of the second and third parts. A pinhole has first, second, and third sections that respectively receive the first, second and third parts of the pin. The first shoulder limits upward pin travel by abutting an overhang at the juncture of the first and second pinhole sections. The second shoulder limits downward pin travel by abutting a step at the juncture of the second and third pinhole sections.

Abstract: Single dot tactile reading module including a tactile dot, driven by a rotation of a cam around its axis, either directly or through a pair of levers. A shape memory alloy wire is attached on one hand to a rod which ends can slide in slots cut in internal faces of the cam, on the other hand to a rod held in a fixed position at the bottom of the tactile module. The wire contraction, produce by Joule heating, rotates the cam which in turn moves the dot up or down depending on the direction of the rotation. The wire cooling, accelerated by a heat sink allows the return of the wire to its initial length with help of a spring which pushes the rod from one end to the opposite end of the slots the cam being prevented from rotating by a locking spring having two stable positions, one corresponding to the up position of the dot, the other to its down position.

Abstract: The present invention provides a Braille cell being of compact design and having low power consumption. The novel Braille cell is based on the bending characteristics of electroactive polymers to provide hydraulic actuation of a Braille dot. As such, the bending mechanism of the electroactive polymer actuator is transferred to the linear motion of the Braille dot. Additionally, to reduce power consumption, a latching and support mechanism is provided.

Abstract: An element (10) comprises sealed cavities (24) arranged according to a regular pattern. Each cavity (24) contains a product such as a wax which changes in volume, in reversible fashion, when a given temperature threshold is crossed, together with an individual heating organ (26). The cavities (24) are separated from the front face (10a) of the element by a mobile or deformable organ (38). A separate piloting for each of the heating organs (26) makes it possible to make the relief of the front face (10a) of the element evolve in controlled fashion. Such an element can be used to re-transcribe, in relief, tactile (visually handicapped) or visual information.

Abstract: A refreshable display unit with a housing, a plurality of refreshable cells housed in the housing, the cells having a guide block with at least six holes, six motors each with a coupler which may be rotated by the motor, a pin fastened to each coupler and extending into engagement with one of the holes of the guide block, and a stop mounted on each coupler for engaging stop elements mounted on the housing for limiting the rotation of the coupler, the placement of the stop elements on the housing being such that it controls the height extension of the pin fastened to the coupler with respect to the guide block, the unit further having a connector for connecting the display unit to the electronic means of a computer. A unit may have a plurality of keys for inputting a character, including at least two sets of keys, a first set being used when the keyboard is oriented in a first direction and a second set being used when the keyboard is oriented in a second direction.

Abstract: A user interface by which contents of what is being processed can be confirmed with the sense of touch is provided. On a first surface of a portable phone, first piezoelectric devices are arranged, and on a second surface of the portable phone, second piezoelectric devices are arranged. When radio waves are transmitted, a displacement is generated from the first and second last piezoelectric devices at the same time when radio waves are transmitted from an antenna, and the displacement moves in sequence to the piezoelectric devices of the upper portion. When the displacement moves to the first and second initial piezoelectric devices, a displacement is generated repeatedly from the first and second last piezoelectric devices, and is continued until the other party to which a call is being originated responds.

Abstract: A novel hydraulic and latching (SSH) mechanism is invented to make the compact and low power consumption Braille cell based on the bending of the electroactive polymer actuators including PVDF polymer, IPMC and other electroactive polymers. The system comprises a rectangular cavity with four bending elements working at its two sides. The top of the cavity is sealed with a rubber membrane or a preformed membrane and the cavity is full of the water or other appropriate liquid to serve as the pressure transferring medium. The system transfers the bending of the electroactive polymer actuator into the linear motion of the Braille dot. A novel latching mechanism with two supporting blocks attaching to the bending elements and a thin rod attaching to the membrane is invented to provide over 30 grams supporting force which is the required for the Braille dot. The system provides the 0.7 mm displacement which is required for the travel of the Braille dot, large supporting force and quick response time (less than 0.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for refreshable tactile display are disclosed, the apparatus being preferably embodied as a rotating-wheel refreshable Braille reader. The reader includes a housing having a reading aperture with a rotatable wheel assembly maintained therein so that a display surface of a rotating wheel passes the reading aperture. The wheel has endless rows of openings defined therethrough to the display surface, a pin held in each opening and freely movable therein. Actuators, at least equal in number to the rows of openings but substantially fewer in number than the openings, are held at a static location relative to the wheel for selectively moving pins in the rows so that Braille characters are arrayed at the display surface after passing the static location. Braille characters are thus streamed across the reading aperture of the housing.

Abstract: An electronic data display system (EDDS) which includes a computer system for containing a multiple data field environment (MDFE), including portions of displayable data, and at least one tactile display for displaying data contained within the MDFE. The system also includes first and second movable navigation devices. The first device selects data from a first selected portion of the MDFE for display by the tactile display. The second navigation device selects data for display from a second selected portion of the MDFE, the second portion being different from the first selected portion.

Abstract: A tactile display system includes a housing containing a tactile pin movable axially transverse of a reference surface and an actuator mechanism engageable therewith for selective movement between raised and lowered positions. An elongated electromagnet distant from the reference surface is aligned with the tactile pin and has spaced poles of opposite, selectively reversible, polarity. A generally spherical rotatable positioning member being a permanent magnet having a peripheral surface which is partially a spherical surface and partially a truncated surface has an axis of rotation coaxial with the tactile pin and the electromagnet and is responsive to operation of the electromagnet, being movable between a first position at which the spherical surface faces the tactile pin, causing positioning of the tactile pin at the raised position and a second position at which the truncated surface faces the tactile pin causing positioning of the tactile pin at the lowered position.

Abstract: A remotely activated sensory stimulation device comprised of a case, a tactile stimulatory means, a receiving unit, a transmitting unit and a controller. The amplitude and frequency of the tactile stimulation is adjustable to provide different prompts or to alter the prompt. The device is further camouflaged with a second functionality to eliminate any social stigma. The device is useful for teaching individuals with a variety of learning disorders including Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Abstract: A display device which displays image information in a form perceivable by a blind person. For this purpose, the display device has a plurality of areally arranged elements (1), which are individually actuatable, and an actuation device for actuation of the elements (1), whereby through the elements (1), electronic image information (7) fed into the evaluation device (16) is tangibly represented through the elements (1). The actuator elements may be arranged areally on a flexible substrate (13), which are individually actuatable, whereby through the actuator elements (11), vibrations and/or heat and/or electrical impulses can be generated.

Abstract: Various apparatus and methods for an actuator and display using one more shape memory springs. A shape memory spring is heated and urges a pin to a first or extended position. The pin may be supported in the first position by a supporting mechanism. The shape memory spring is heated electically, and in some embodiments under the control of a processor. The present invention may be used to display information provided in user interface from a computer program, including text, numerical data, and graphical images.

Abstract: A tactile feedback device includes a plurality of tactile elements. At least one of the plurality of tactile elements includes a movable member and an expandable substance positioned adjacent to the movable member. The movable member is displaced to provide tactile feedback in response to the expandable substance being expanded.

Abstract: A tactile transducer is able to provide a tactile display or serve as a tactile input sensor. Paired contactors having contactor tips separated by a gap are connected to transducer means (an actuator or sensor). Variations in the gap distance can create a tactile experience through skin stretch, or provide tactile input in sensor mode.

Abstract: Information for receiving by a computer system has attributes which the computer system is capable of interpreting for displaying on a two-dimensional display device. The information includes background and character attributes, according to which the characters are displayable in a color or shade that contrasts to the background. At least one of the characters has a certain character attribute for two dimensionally displaying, such bold, italic, underlining, font type or color. The information is rendered in a delineation that is tactile-detectable on a control surface of a three-dimensional display device. As thus rendered, a representation of the background is rendered in a first plane, while a representation one of the characters has a top surface of the character rendered in a second plane, and a representation of the one of the characters having the certain character attribute has a top surface of the character rendered in a third plane.

Abstract: Apparatus for converting a visual image into a tactile image. The apparatus comprises imaging means for converting incident light from the visual image into electrical signals that are proportional to the gray scale intensity of the incident light. The apparatus also comprises a tactile display device having a two-dimensional array of variable height pixels, wherein the height of each pixel in the tactile display is dynamically variable in proportion to the electrical signals from the imaging means. Preferably, the height of each pixel is inversely proportional to the gray scale intensity of the incident light so that the maximum height of a pixel occurs when a corresponding pixel in the visual image is black.

Abstract: The tactile stimulation device designed to be used by a deaf person includes, in particular, an electroacoustic transducer. The invention is noteworthy in that the device consists of a case which can be held in one hand and which has a sensor associated with the electroacoustic transducer, which sensor is designed to enable turning the device on by touching said sensor.

Abstract: A tactile display reads out information corresponding to at least a portion of an image appearing on a computer screen comprising a 2-dimensional array of pixels. The tactile display comprises a plurality of tactile output elements arranged in a 2-dimensional array. Each of the plurality of output elements corresponds to at least one pixel of the computer screen and is movable, in response to an input representative of a value of a property of the at least one pixel, to a predetermined one of a plurality of discrete, tactilely-recognizable positions. The positions of the plurality of tactile output elements provide a tactilely-recognizable pattern representative of said information.

Abstract: A portable device for providing an information management system for blind individuals, including those who read Braille format writing, and who may either partially or completely lack sight capabilities, and/or who may be unable to process visual information obtained from printed character materials. The portable device features a scanner for scanning the printed material, software for interpreting and translating the printed material into Braille and a Braille array display for displaying the Braille. In addition, the portable device preferably features an annotation feature for adding notes to the text as well as for separate text entry, more preferably through a Braille keyboard. Other preferred components include an organizer component for providing calendar information, reminders and other useful functions for the management of information.

Abstract: A method and system for three-dimensional topographical modeling. A control surface that is adjustable provides a tactile-detectable graphical representation of a three-dimensional graphical image and associated physical characteristics. A sensitivity element detects an external force applied to the control surface. A controller adjusts the tactile-detectable graphical representation to model the associated physical characteristics of the three-dimensional graphical image when external force is applied to the control surface.

Abstract: A system and method for teaching sign language to a student. The method includes pre-recording a presentation on a medium. The presentation has an instruction portion wherein instruction related to a plurality of sign language signs is given, and a game playing portion wherein each of the plurality of signs is presented for recognition by the student. The medium is configured to be displayed on a display device, such as a video player or computing device. The method also includes providing a gaming surface having a plurality of symbols thereon, each of the plurality of symbols corresponding to a sign language sign presented in the game playing portion of the presentation. The method further includes instructing the student to record, in response to each sign displayed during the game playing portion of the presentation, the presence of the symbol corresponding to the displayed sign on the gaming surface.

Abstract: The present invention is further directed to a refreshable display system with a flexible surface, with one application being a refreshable Braille display systems for use as a monitor for computer systems.

Abstract: An electronic data display system (EDDS) which includes a system for containing a multiple data field environment (MDFE) including portions of displayable data; at least first and second displays for displaying data contained within the MDFE, capable of displaying data selected from different portions of the MDFE, wherein at least one of the displays is a tactile display; apparatus for selecting data for display by the first display, from a first portion of the MDFE; and apparatus for selecting data for display by the first display, from a second portion of the MDFE, different from the first portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a data input/read-out device, including at least one output element, more particularly a Braille element, for outputting Braille data by correspondingly changing the surface profile; and at least one input element for inputting data, the input element being positionable in at least two different positions to thus enter data wherein the maximum spacing between the at least one input element and the at least one output element does not exceed a specific maximum value so that the input element and the output element can be touched or actuated simultaneously by one hand.

Abstract: An apparatus for supplying tactile signals to the user of a vehicle or other machine to indicate the operational status or condition of the vehicle or machine, or a functional part thereof. A cam undergoes rotary movement within a flexible cylindrical wall having a corrugated inner surface, as with ridges of the like. The distal end of the cam contacts the inner surface as the cam rotates. The rotary motion of the cams modulated and regulated in response to output signals associated with operating conditions, for example, fluid pressure, engine speed, oil temperature, transmitted from corresponding sending units. The rotation of the cam causes periodic flexure of displacement of the wall which is palpable to the user. In one embodiment, the rotating cam causes one or more movable plungers to move to-and from in and out of the wall, also resulting in a tactile signal to the user. The cam may be driven by an electric motor which is responsive to the input signals.

Abstract: A sheet material, such as a bank note, having tactile indicia therein, the tactility of which is resistant to deterioration and useful for assisting persons with impaired vision to identify one or more predetermined characteristics of the sheet material such as a bank note. The sheet material has therein at least one embossment forming the indicia and comprises a first surface and a second surface, with one of the surfaces defining a cavity in the area of the embossment. A layer of reinforcing material is provided to at least the area of that surface which comprises the cavity. Once the reinforcing material is dried and/or cured the embossment (indicia) is strengthened by the layer of reinforcing material and thereby rendered more durable when the bank note is subjected to the wear of circulation. The reinforcing material may be selected from the group consisting of varnishes, inks, adhesives and caulking compounds.

Abstract: Presenting audio signals to a user is comprised of receiving audio signals to be presented, separating the audio signals into plural discrete frequency components extending from a low frequency to a high frequency, translating each of the frequency components into control signals, and applying the control signals to an array of tactile transducers for sensing by the user.

Abstract: A Braille cell having a pressure-exerting member in the form of a bar or leaf spring, of which one end can be displaced with the aid of a first displacement mechanism in a direction that is perpendicular to a longitudinal direction. One end of the pressure-exerting member is configured for placement in either a first or second position. In the first position, the pressure-exerting member does not place touch pins in a high position, while in the second position, the pressure-exerting member does place the touch pins in a high position. A second displacement mechanism is configured to displace the end of the pressure-exerting member, after the end has been disposed in one of the first or second positions, in the longitudinal direction, in such a manner that a touch pin is placed or is not placed in the high position. This allows a touch pin to be fixed in the correct position with respect to the touch surface of the touch board in a very simple manner.

Abstract: A portable reading device for the blind consisting of a miniature housing (2) attached to a sleeve to be fitted over the tip of the user's index finger like a thimble. The housing (2) includes an optical sensor array (5) and an electromagnetic unit for displaying one printed character at a time in Braille on a tactile surface as soon as the user's finger passes over the character. The electromagnetic unit contains six electromagnets (7) for reproducing Braille characters, and two further electromagnets for indicating incorrect tracking to the user. The latter two electromagnets are activated when the blind user's finger moves too far up or down as it runs along a line of text.

Abstract: An apparatus for conveying information includes a perforated plate having a plurality of circular openings; at least one pin (5, 15, 25, 25, 35, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85) which is axially movable to project through and above a respective circular opening, an electromagnetic actuator (6, 16, 66, 116) for moving the pin (5, 15, 25, 25, 35, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85), and a permanent magnet for retaining the pin in at least two stable positions.

Abstract: Disclosed is an input device and method for interacting with motion pictures incorporating content-based haptic response. Content data relating to the motion picture is stored in a content data storage device while motion picture data is stored in a prerecorded image data storage device. A viewer input device is provided so that a viewer (end-user) can advance and reverse the frames on a display screen while substantially simultaneously, the content data is accessed and braking commands are sent to the viewer input device. The result is that the viewer is provided with haptic responses to the viewer's input through the viewer input device.

Abstract: A memory wire Braille tactile system for continuously replicating a plurality of Braille characters on a single display which is substantially less costly than conventional prior art and allows the user to maintain their level of touch sensitivity. The inventive device includes a housing having an interior portion, a securing member attached near one end of the housing within the interior portion, a first plate attached to the housing opposite of the securing member, a second plate between the first plate and the securing member, a plurality of contactor shafts slidably projecting through the plates, and a plurality of memory wires connected at one end to the securing member and connected to the contactor shafts opposite thereof. A plurality of compression springs are attached to the contactors for forcing the contactors outward from the first plate.

Abstract: A method of conveying information to a nervous system of a person has the steps of disintegrating an initial information into separate streams; coding each of the streams as a sequence of signals; transmitting the signals of each of the streams to separate fixed areas of a tactile sensitivity of a person which areas together form a total information zone; and cyclically changing a function of coding to ensure integration of a perceived information by a person, within limits of the cycle by choosing parameters of the function and a law changing the function in time.

Abstract: A device for inducing alternating tactile stimulations in a human subject is disclosed. The device includes a first vibrating element and a second vibrating element connected to a controller. The subject holds the first vibrating element in one hand and the second vibrating element in the other hand. When the device is activated the following occurs in sequence: the first vibrating element vibrates, pauses, the second vibrating element vibrates, pauses, the first vibrating element vibrates, pauses, the second vibrating element vibrates, pauses, and so forth, until the device is deactivated. The first and second vibrating elements are preferably of a hand-held size and shape.

Abstract: In a braille recognition system according to the present invention, light is obliquely irradiated onto the surface of a document in braille, and its reflected light is received by imaging means, to obtain a gray image. An image corresponding to a pattern of projected points on the document in braille is obtained on the basis of the obtained gray image. An image is then cut in braille units from the image corresponding to the pattern of projected points. A braille code is generated for each cut image in the braille unit.

Abstract: A system is provided including a tactile assembly having a plurality of solenoid units adapted to transfer to an extended orientation upon the actuation thereof. Also included is a camera unit for generating an image indicative of a present perspective of objects situated in a predetermined direction. Next provided is control circuitry for actuating the solenoid units to simulate the image generated by the camera unit such that the solenoid units actuated are those which correspond to pixels within the image that have either a higher or lower brightness.

Abstract: Light is obliquely irradiated onto the surface of a document in braille, and its reflected light is received, to obtain a first gray image. The first gray image is subjected, while being scanned in a direction corresponding to a direction parallel to the direction of light irradiation, to differentiation processing in the scanning direction, to produce a second gray image whose light and dark portions respectively produced by projected points have a particular pattern. The second gray image is subjected to such ternary-coding processing that the particular pattern of the light and dark portions respectively produced by the projected points in the second gray image is emphasized, to produce a ternary-coded image. Each of the projected points is extracted by pattern matching with respect to the ternary-coded image.

Abstract: A computer mouse for blind users and a method for its use. The mouse has a display area on its upper surface in which a portion of the computer's screen display is reproduced in tactile form, for example by raising and lowering members of an array of pins. A monochrome display is encoded by pin height. A color display may be encoded in various ways. Preferably, lightness is encoded as the range of vertical motion of the pins and hue is encoded as pin motion frequency. A blind user scans the screen display by moving the mouse around on a mouse pad and feeling the relative heights and frequencies of the pins.

Abstract: A braille teaching tool that audibly pronounces each braille character as it is touched by the student is comprised of a touch pad having a rectangular matrix of touch sensitive areas each connected to a processor with memory for identifying each sensitive area of each sheet of braille placed on the touch pad. The processor is coupled to a speech synthesizer for pronouncing the braille character.

Abstract: A device for making a master plate for printing braille includes a support table on which a master plate material is positionable. A punch is disposed on a first side of the master plate material. A punch die is positioned in alignment with the punch, and is arranged on a second side of the master plate material. A punch driver is connected to the punch, and is activateable to move the punch toward the master plate material. A shifter arrangement is provided for changing a relative position of the master plate material to the punch and the punch die. A controller is operatively connected to the shifter and the punch driver for controlling an operation of the shifter and the punch driver. A data supply arrangement is coupled to the controller, and supplies punching data thereto.

Abstract: This invention relates to a graphic tactile cell for indicating a graphic pattern, in which the arrangement of the tactile surface can be enlarged easily. This graphic tactile cell includes tactile pins for indicating a graphic pattern by vertical movement, piezoelectric element segments which are bent upon application of a voltage to vertically drive the tactile pins, and a unit base for holding the tactile pins and the piezoelectric element segments. A plurality of cell units each including a unit number of tactile pins, corresponding piezoelectric element segments, and a unit base for holding the tactile pins and the piezoelectric element segments are coupled vertically and horizontally such that the tactile pins are arranged at an equal interval in vertical and horizontal directions. Proximal ends of the piezoelectric element segments are held by the unit base through plastically deformable adjusting members.