Literature Reviews
Reviewed research papers, articles, and publications relevant to digital accessibility.
11 results found tagged tactile maps.
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Constructive Exploration of Spatial Information by Blind Users
This paper from the University of Magdeburg introduces "constructive exploration," a novel approach to helping blind people learn spatial layouts by actively building physical representations of routes and areas using building blocks, guided by an in…
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Instant Tactile-Audio Map: Enabling Access to Digital Maps for People with Visual Impairment
This paper presents an automated system for converting standard digital map images into interactive tactile-audio maps that people who are blind can explore independently. The core problem addressed is that while online map services like Google Maps …
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Experimental Evaluation of Multi-scale Tactile Maps Created with SIM, a Web App for Indoor Map Authoring
This paper introduces Semantic Interior Mapology (SIM), a web application that democratizes tactile map creation by allowing anyone to trace a floor plan image and automatically generate embossable tactile maps at multiple scales. Unlike outdoor envi…
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LucentMaps: 3D Printed Audiovisual Tactile Maps for Blind and Visually Impaired People
This paper presents LucentMaps, a system for creating 3D printed transparent audiovisual tactile maps that work as interactive overlays on standard tablet computers and smartphones. Unlike most audio-tactile map approaches that focus exclusively on b…
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Customizable 3D Printed Tactile Maps as Interactive Overlays
This paper presents an end-to-end system that enables visually impaired individuals to independently design, customize, and interact with 3D printed tactile maps. Traditional tactile map production has been limited by high costs (Braille embossers ra…
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Maritime Buoyage on 3D-Printed Tactile Maps
This demonstration paper presents work from the Brest Bay Touch project to create 3D-printed maritime maps accessible to people with visual impairments, with a particular focus on representing sea marks (buoys, lighthouses, and other navigational aid…
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A Demonstration of Molder: An Accessible Design Tool for Tactile Maps
This demonstration paper presents Molder, an accessible design tool that enables teachers of the visually impaired (TVIs) and orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists to create 3D printed tactile maps without requiring professional 3D modeling skil…
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Jido: A Conversational Tactile Map for Blind People
This demonstration paper presents Jido, a system that combines a touch-sensitive tactile map with a voice-based conversational agent to help blind people understand and navigate indoor environments. The tactile map is constructed from laser-cut acryl…
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Smooth Sailing? Autoethnography of Recreational Travel by a Blind Person
This paper presents the first autoethnographic study of a blind traveller, documenting Kate Stephens' (the first author) experience planning and undertaking a 28-day cruise around Australia with her vision-impaired husband. Kate, a 63-year-old who ha…
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BentoMuseum: 3D and Layered Interactive Museum Map for Blind Visitors
This paper presents BentoMuseum, a novel 3D-printed interactive museum map system designed to help blind visitors independently explore and navigate museum spaces. The system addresses a significant gap in museum accessibility — while museums increas…