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Possible Approaches for an Accessible CAD System for the Blind

Presenter

Robert Jaquiss

Independence Science

Abstract

For a number of years, considerable efforts have been made to encourage persons in the BLV community to engage in STEM careers. Equipment exists that can create good tactile images.

One major requirement for many STEM courses is the drawing and working with images. The proposed design is an attempt to allow a person who is blind to create CAD images. Currently, the OpenScad system allows a user to define an object using a mashup of set theory, geometry and program constructs. Three possible approaches are:

  • Use a 3d scanner to scan a physical model.
  • Use software and/or 3d scanner to log changes to a physical model as it is being built.
  • Use a haptic device to design using Virtual Clay™