Tangible Maps for Visually Impaired Users: Shape-Changing Perspectives

Abstract

Interactive maps for visually impaired people are rarely dynamic and if so, very expensive. We developed a low-cost tangible tabletop interface that enables visually impaired users to dynamically construct maps. To do so, we designed a novel type of physical icons, called Tangible Reels. In this paper, we discuss how actuated Tangible Reels could be used to provide visually impaired users with an access to dynamic tangible maps and advanced functionalities (zoom, pan and exploration of geostatistical data). The three design ideas that we propose open new avenues for shape-changing interfaces for visually impaired users