Author(s):
Joshua Miele, Ph.D. - The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute
James Marston, Ph.D. - University of California At Santa Barbara
Abstract:
The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute's Tactile Map Automated Production (TMAP) Project has developed a web-based software tool for rapid production of highly specific, tactile street maps. Prior to this time, tactile street maps have been almost exclusively produced by hand – a laborious and time-consuming process. TMAP brings together existing GIS resources with a variety of currently available computer-controlled embossing and engraving technologies to yield a revolutionary tool which promises to significantly impact education, orientation, and mobility of blind and visually impaired travelers. The users of the TMAP service access a text-based web interface to specify the location, size, and a number of other attributes of the desired tactile map. The map file and related textual information are automatically generated by the server, and can be downloaded and immediately embossed by the user. Maps are highly customizable. For example, text may be in contracted or uncontracted Braille, specific locations such as addresses or intersections can be indicated, and maps can be produced over a broad range of scales.
In addition to its wayfinding and orientation and Mobility (O&M) applications, TMAP is a powerful research tool. Many wayfinding and cognitive psychology studies have investigated the degree to which blind and visually impaired people are able to integrate spatial information obtained from tactile maps. In a collaboration between The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute and the University of California at Santa Barbara’s Department of Geography, TMAP is now being used to investigate spatial cognition related to visual impairment and tactile map usage.
