My final project consists in the design of a sound module that is part of a system enabling Braille to be perceived through touch, hearing, and sight. For my final project, I will utilize a previously designed device for learning Braille reading and writing.

The preliminary assembly of this device, developed for Braille reading and writing learning, translates the position of the pins in real-time to identify the entered letter or character. It sends the position of the pins to the sound and light modules, allowing Braille to be experienced through senses other than touch. The communication is carried out via WiFi using a home network.

What will it do?

The main device will facilitate the learning of Braille reading and writing by translating the position of Braille pins in real-time. When the main module sends this data to the sound and light modules it allow users to experience Braille through additional senses beyond touch, such as hearing and sight, it communicates via WiFi.

Who has done what beforehand?

Various initiatives have explored Braille learning tools and multisensory experiences. Examples include the Dot Watch and Dot Pad, which use pin matrices to display Braille characters.However, I have't found specific systems that translates the position of Braille pins to be perceived by other senses. No system has been designed for this purpose.

What will you design?

I will design a modular device that translates Braille pin positions into real-time data, sending it to sound and light modules to enable multisensory Braille experiences. The device will use WiFi for communication.

What materials and components will be used?

The materials and components include an XIAO ESP32-C3 microcontroller for each module, vibrator motor modules, various JST connectors, RGB leds, and various electronic components like resistors, connectors, and batteries.

Where will they come from?

The components will be sourced from various suppliers, including Digi-Key, Mouser, and Seeed Technology.

What parts and systems will be made?

Parts include the main Braille module, sound module, light module, and the WiFi communication system.

What processes will be used?

Processes include 3D printing for enclosures, CNC machining for PCBs, electronic soldering for assembling circuits, and software development for real-time data translation and communication using Wifi and MQTT broker.

What questions need to be answered?

Key questions include: How accurate is the real-time translation of Braille pins? How effective is the WiFi communication in a typical home network? How do users perceive the multisensory Braille experience? How can I visualize or program the connection to the WiFi network without needing to know how to program?

How will it be evaluated?

The system has no problems sending the data between the devices. It can be replicated in an easy way?

PCB BOM