| Description: | The IDeA Center partnered with Touch Graphics Inc. to develop a series of Multisensory Interactive Models (MIM). These models provide an immersive wayfinding experience, offering a combination of audio, visual and tactile output to sighted, low vision and blind individuals who can all use the same device to learn about an unfamiliar environment. Project clients included: Carroll Center for the Blind, Chicago Lighthouse, and Perkins School for the Blind. The team developed a wayfinding device by combining three-dimensional rapid prototyping techniques and touch-base sensing technologies into a simple, intuitive interactive tactile model. The team documented the sites, produced preliminary 2D drawings and 3D prototypes, and printed the final models using a Dimension 3D printer. After testing and production, the models were installed for use. The team then conducted usability studies to evaluate the effectiveness of each prototype. Usability testing demonstrated that the MIMs were a significant help to the visitors, students and staff. Touch Graphics Inc. and the IDeA Center were able to develop the prototype into a fully functional, market-ready product that is customizable with the potential for widespread use in more public environments. Through the use of Touch Graphics’ in-house rapid prototyping machines and on-site manufacturing system, the final model is streamlined and cost-efficient. The installation of the touch-base interactive model proved to be a significant help to the availability of the model to others in similar institutions. |
| Project/Activity Leader(s): | Heamchand Subryan, Design Research Associate, Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDeA) |
| Unit: | School of Architecture and Planning |
| Department: | Architecture |
| City: | Buffalo |
| State: | NY |
| Country: | United States |
| External Funding: | Yes |
| Funding Source: | National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services |
| Start Date: | 2010-10 |
| End Date: | 2015-09-30 |
| External Partners: | Touch Graphics Inc.; Carroll Center for the Blind; Chicago Lighthouse; Perkins School for the Blind |
| Are UB students involved? | No |
