Braille keyboard uses MEMS technology
From: Electronic Design - October 21, 2002 - page 164

A Braille keyboard display system implements refreshable micro-actuated keys
that communicate with the computer.  

A "miracle worker" is coming for the blind thanks to micro-electromechanical
systems (MEMS) technology, in the form of a Braille keyboard display system
that allows the blind to access information via computer. The keyboard's keys
are formed from Braille characters that react to computer signals by popping
in and out, so the blind person can "read" what's on the computer screen.
Relying on MEMS microvalves, these upcoming systems would dramatically lower
the cost of today's keyboard-like Braille display systems.  

Orbital Research Inc.'s team is involved in developing microvalves for a
Refreshable Braille Display System (RBDS). RBDS will allow blind people to
access internet and other electronic communications at a much faster rate. 

Development of a Refreshable Braille Display System

This project will design, fabricate, and test a multi line Refreshable
Braille Display System (RBDS) that utilizes MEMS microvalves. The close
proximity of Braille dots and between Braille characters create a complex
network of wires and actuators that limit the number of Braille characters
and increases the size of current Braille displays. Improved actuation
mechanisms are required to provide more Braille characters that would emulate
a sheet of Braille text and/or the computer monitor. Any new devices must
require the proper vertical deployment of the Braille dots, spacing between
dots, low power, fit into tight spaces, and provide rapid (real-time)
response, all while being affordable. In Phase I, Orbital Research
demonstrated the feasibility of most of the necessary components of the RBDS
including a MEMS microvalve. This multi-line display will be composed of
Braille modules with a fixed number of Braille characters that can be
integrated into larger Braille display. The display would produce computer
based information either from the hard drive, CDROM, or the Internet in
literary Braille, computer or math code using commercially available
software. Thus, this device would more effectively enhance educational and
research opportunities for visually impaired and also visually and hearing
impaired individuals.  

Contact:
Frederick Lisy
Orbital Research Corporation

Links:
http://www.orbitalresearch.com
http://www.orbitalresearch.com/script/mems.htm
http://asme.pinetec.com/bio1999/data/pdfs/a0023127.pdf
http://www.iactivcorp.com/
http://www.iactivcorp.com/xdrive/products/RB-04A.pdf

