A sparsh bharati e-reader system and a method thereof

Abstract

The present invention discloses a Sparsh Bharati (SB) e-reader system for Indic languages and a method thereof. The proposed Sparsh Bharati e-reader system (100) is designed to empower individuals with visual impairments by providing a seamless and immersive braille reading experience. The system (100) comprises at least one user device (102), at least one Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104), a communication unit (106), and at least one server (108). The Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) comprises an input unit (202), a processing unit (204), a memory unit (206), a communication unit (208), an output unit (210), and a power supply unit (212). The Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) utilizes refreshable SB cells (500) to dynamically display SB characters, enabling users to read a wide range of digital content. Further, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) transforms digital input into a tangible and interactive reading experience, providing a sense of touch and independence for readers.

Description

A SPARSH BHARATI E-READER SYSTEM AND A METHOD THEREOF

[0001] The field of invention generally relates to a Sparsh Bharati (SB) e-reader system and a method thereof. More specifically, it relates to a Sparsh Bharati (SB) e-reader system that can enhance the accessibility and readability of Indic languages for visually impaired individuals.

[0002] Reading and accessing written information poses significant challenges for visually impaired and blind individuals in India. Traditional Braille systems, while effective, face limitations when it comes to representing the unique structure and visual characteristics of Indian languages.

[0003] Currently, the original Braille system, developed for English, struggles to effectively express the complex consonant-vowel combinations and higher order combinations present in Indic writing systems. This often leads to a contrived representation of Indic phonetics, similar to writing Indian languages in the English script. Furthermore, the abstract nature of Braille dots fails to capture the rich visual texture found in visual scripts, hindering the visually impaired individuals from comprehending the wiggles, squiggles, T-junctions, and X-intersections that form the essence of Indian language alphabets.

[0004] Other existing systems have tried to address this problem. One such effort was the creation of Bharati script, a unified writing system capable of expressing all major Indian languages. However, the tactile representation of Bharati script, lacks the “edginess” desired in an essentially haptic script like Braille due to the presence of a large number of curved contours in the script. Further, there have been no braille e-readers that can enhance the accessibility and readability of Indic languages for visually impaired individuals.

[0005] In the light of above discussion, it is implied that there is a need for an e-reader combined with a suitable Braille-like script that bridges the gap between tactile reading and the visual complexity of Indian language scripts which is reliable and does not suffer from the problems discussed above.Object of Invention

[0006] The principal object of this invention is to provide a Sparsh Bharati e-reader system for Indian languages and a method thereof.

[0007] A further object of the invention is to provide the Sparsh Bharati e-reader system that can enhance the accessibility and readability of Indic languages for visually impaired individuals.

[0008] Another object of the invention is to provide the Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, specifically designed for Sparsh Bharati characters.

[0009] A further object of the invention is to enable an existing braille e-reader system to display Sparsh Bharati characters facilitating a more visually representative and intuitive reading experience.

[0010] This invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which, like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures.

[0011] The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:Fig. 1

[0012] depicts / illustrates a general block diagram of a Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 2a

[0013] depicts / illustrates detailed block diagram of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 2b

[0014] depicts / illustrates a pictorial representation of a Sparsh Bharati e-reader, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 3

[0015] depicts / illustrates the block diagram of input unit in the Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 4

[0016] depicts / illustrates the block diagram of output unit in the Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 5a

[0017] depicts / illustrates a pictorial representation of a single braille cell comprising a Sparsh Bharati character, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 5b

[0018] depicts / illustrates a pictorial representation of multiple braille cells comprising the Sparsh Bharati characters, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;Fig. 5c

[0019] depicts / illustrates a side profile view of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and.Fig. 6

[0020] depicts / illustrates a method of displaying Sparsh Bharati characters on a Sparsh Bharati e-reader, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.Statement of Invention

[0021] The present invention discloses a system and method for enabling blind and visually impaired people to read. The system comprises at least one user device, at least one Sparsh Bharati e-reader, a communication network, and at least one server. The Sparsh Bharati e-reader is configured to enable blind and visually impaired people to read books, articles, and other documents.

[0022] Further, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader comprises an input unit, a processing unit, a memory unit, a communication unit, an output unit, and a power supply unit. The input unit receives inputs from the user. Thereafter, these inputs are then processed by the processing unit, which generates the necessary tactile feedback. This tactile feedback is delivered to the user through the output unit, enabling them to perceive the content through touch. By converting digital text into tactile feedback, the system facilitates an accessible and independent reading experience for blind and visually impaired individuals.

[0023] The present invention offers numerous advantages for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. One of the key benefits is the tactile reading experience, enabling users to comprehend written content through touch and access information independently. Portability is another advantage, as Sparsh Bharati e-readers are lightweight and compact, making them convenient for use. The dynamic Sparsh Bharati display enables users to navigate through documents and books with real-time access to text. Additionally, these e-readers support multiple languages, especially Indian languages, and offer connectivity options like Bluetooth and USB for easy data transfer and online content access. This enhances educational opportunities, employment prospects, and overall quality of life for users.

[0024] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and / or detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0025] The present invention discloses a Sparsh Bharati (SB) e-reader system for Indic languages and a method thereof. The proposed Sparsh Bharati e-reader system is designed to empower individuals with visual impairments by providing a seamless and immersive Sparsh Bharati reading experience. The Sparsh Bharati e-reader utilizes refreshable Sparsh Bharati cells to dynamically display Sparsh Bharati characters, enabling users to read a wide range of digital content in Sparsh Bharati e-reader. Further, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader transforms digital input into a tangible and interactive reading experience, providing a sense of touch and independence for braille readers.

[0026] depicts / illustrates a general block diagram of a Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] In an embodiment, the system 100 comprises at least one user device 102, at least one Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104, a communication network 106, and at least one server 108.

[0028] In an embodiment, the user device 102 may comprise one or more wearable devices, mobile phones, PDAs, smartphones, smart bands, smart watches, laptops, computers, etc. The user device 102 may have a user application that can control the operations of the system 100.

[0029] The Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 is configured to enable blind and visually impaired people to read books, articles, and other documents.

[0030] Typically, the system 100 connects the user device 102, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104, and the server 108 via the communication network 106. One skilled in the art may recognize that the communication network 106 may be a wired network or wireless network.

[0031] Furthermore, the wired communication may be carried out by any one of the network configurations such as LAN, WAN, etc. and the wireless communication may be carried out through Mobile Service Provider (MSP) and Internet Service Provider (ISP) having internet connection provided by an ISP provider, 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G internet connection provided by the mobile service provider. The standard protocols such as TCP / IP, HTTP, FTP, UDP, IPV4, IPV6 etc. as known in the art, may be used for the wireless communication.

[0032] In an embodiment, the system 100 may comprise as many servers 108 as required by the users. The servers 108 may comprise one or more mobile phones, PDAs, smartphones, laptops, computers, etc.

[0033] depicts / illustrates a detailed block diagram of a Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] In an embodiment, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 comprises an input unit 202, a processing unit 204, a memory unit 206, a communication unit 208, an output unit 210, and a power supply unit 212.

[0035] In an embodiment, the input unit 202 is configured to receive inputs to the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104.

[0036] In an embodiment, the processing unit 204 may comprise one or more microprocessors, circuits, and other hardware configured for processing. The processing unit 204 is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory unit 206 as well as communicate with the user devices 102 through the input / output unit 202 and 210 via the communication unit 208.

[0037] In an embodiment, the memory unit 206 of the user device 102 comprises one or more volatile and non-volatile memory components which are capable of storing data and instructions to be executed.

[0038] In an embodiment, the communication unit 208 of the user device 102 may include wired and wireless communication, including but not limited to, GPS, GSM, LAN, Wi-fi compatibility, Bluetooth low energy as well as NFC. The wireless communication may further comprise one or more of Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), a short-range wireless communication such as UWB, a medium-range wireless communication such as WiFi (registered trademark) or a long-range wireless communication such as 3G / 4G or WiMAX (registered trademark), according to the usage environment.

[0039] The output unit 210 of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 is configured to provide tactile feedback in the form of at least one raised Sparsh Bharati dot 502 and at least one line segment 504.

[0040] The power supply unit 212 of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 is typically configured to provide power supply to the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104. The power supply unit 212 may comprise at least one of a rechargeable battery, a replaceable battery, and a built-in battery that can be recharged via a USB cable, or a power adapter.

[0041] In the preferred embodiment, the Sparsh Bharati e-readers 104 are powered by the rechargeable battery. The battery life can vary depending on usage and the specific model of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104.

[0042] depicts / illustrates a pictorial representation of a Sparsh Bharati e-reader, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] In an embodiment, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 utilizes refreshable Sparsh Bharati cells 500 to dynamically display Sparsh Bharati characters, enabling users to read a wide range of digital content in Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104. Further, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 transforms digital input into a tangible and interactive reading experience, providing a sense of touch and independence for braille readers.

[0044] depicts / illustrates the block diagram of input unit 202 in the Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] The input unit 202 of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 facilitates user interaction and provides a text input to the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104, to enable tactile reading of the text input. The text input may be received either wirelessly from the user device 102 or by accessing the memory unit 206 within the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104.

[0046] The input unit 202 comprises at least one of a keyboard 302, a touchscreen interface 304, an audio input 306, and a USB / Bluetooth connectivity 308.

[0047] The keyboard 302 may comprise at least one of a Sparsh Bharati keyboard, and a QWERTY keyboard.

[0048] The Sparsh Bharati keyboard enables users to input information by pressing specific combinations of the Sparsh Bharati dots 502 and line segments 504, while a QWERTY keyboard enables input using standard alphanumeric keys. The touchscreen interface 304 enables users to interact through tapping and swiping gestures, while the audio input enables spoken commands and text conversion. Additionally, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 may have USB or Bluetooth connectivity options, enabling connection to external devices for input purposes.

[0049] depicts / illustrates the block diagram of output unit 210 in the Sparsh Bharati e-reader system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] The output unit 210 of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 enables individuals who are blind or visually impaired to access written content through tactile feedback. The output unit 210 comprises at least one of a Sparsh Bharati display (SB display) 402 and an audio output 404.

[0051] The SB display 402 comprises one or more dynamic SB cells 500 to form a line of SB cells 500, wherein each SB cell 500 comprises a set of pins 506 or actuators or lever controlled by one or more piezoelectric crystals 508 as shown in. When an electric field is applied, the crystals deform, causing the pins 506 to move. Hence, these pins can be raised or lowered to form the dots 502 and the line segments 504 of Sparsh Bharati characters that represent the text being displayed, via piezo electric effect of crystals 508.

[0052] As users navigate through the content, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader updates the display in real-time, raising or lowering the pins 506 in the Sparsh Bharati cells 500 to reflect the current text. This dynamic nature of the display allows users to read continuously and seamlessly, as the Sparsh Bharati characters are generated on-demand based on the digital content being accessed.

[0053] The SB display 402 typically provides a line-by-line representation of the text, with multiple SB cells 500 aligned horizontally to form a complete line of Sparsh Bharati characters. Users can run their fingers over the display, feeling the raised dots to read the text through touch. The tactile feedback provided by the Sparsh Bharati display 402 enables individuals who are blind or visually impaired to comprehend and interpret the information independently.

[0054] In addition to the SB display 402, the Sparsh Bharati e-readers 104 may offer supplementary output options to accommodate different user preferences and needs. These options may comprise the audio output 404, where the e-reader 104 converts the text into synthesized speech, or visual display, where the content is presented on a screen for sighted individuals who may also be using the device.

[0055] In an embodiment, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 may be used as a refreshable Sparsh Bharati display that generates Sparsh Bharati output while connected to the user device 102. The refreshable Sparsh Bharati display can be connected to user devices 102 such as computers and tablets through USB or Bluetooth connections, enabling users to read Sparsh Bharati, take notes, and navigate various applications on the connected device.

[0056] In an embodiment, the stand-alone Sparsh Bharati displays 402 are configured with varying numbers of Sparsh Bharati cells 500, typically ranging from 12 to 80. Further, they may incorporate features like navigation keys and cursor routing buttons.

[0057] In another embodiment, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 may be used as a notetaker that are advanced braille devices that have evolved from simple note-taking tools to multifunctional devices capable of web browsing, media streaming, book reading, and supporting various applications. The notetakers are configured with QWERTY or Sparsh Bharati keyboards and offer 18 or 32 SB cells 500. Notetakers support file storage and access from external devices, provide speech output options, and offer user-friendly interfaces suitable for Sparsh Bharati learners and individuals with disabilities.

[0058] In an alternate embodiment, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104 may be used as a smart display, bridging the gap between stand-alone Sparsh Bharati displays and feature-rich notetakers, providing more affordable options for Sparsh Bharati users. Smart displays facilitate Sparsh Bharati reading and writing, file management, and utility functions such as clocks, calendars, and document readers. While they do not have built-in internet connectivity for web browsing, email access, or independent music streaming, they are suitable for users who prefer screen reading technology on their computers for advanced tasks but still desire Sparsh Bharati input and output. The smart displays can support simultaneous connections to multiple devices using Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

[0059] depicts / illustrates a pictorial representation of a single SB cell 500 comprising a Sparsh Bharati character, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] depicts / illustrates a pictorial representation of multiple SB cells 500 comprising the Sparsh Bharati characters, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] In an embodiment, each Sparsh Bharati cell 500 comprises of a grid of four raised dots 502 and twelve raised line segments 504 arranged in two columns and two rows (2x2). These dots 502 and line segments 504 can be raised or lowered to represent different letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and other symbols in the Sparsh Bharati characters.

[0062] In an embodiment, any existing braille reader may be enabled for reading Sparsh Bharati characters. By combining different dot patterns raised by isolated pins within the SB cell 500 and by interpreting two consecutive raised pins 502 as single line segment 504, all the letters of the Indic languages, numbers, and various symbols can be represented.

[0063] The dots 502 and the line segments 504 are read by touch, with the reader's fingertips moving across the Sparsh Bharati text to interpret the characters.

[0064] depicts / illustrates a side profile view of the Sparsh Bharati e-reader 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] In an embodiment, the Sparsh Bharati cell 500 comprises multiple Sparsh Bharati dots 502 and multiple line segments 504. The set of pins 506 are coupled to each of the dots 502 and line segments 504, to raise or lower the dots 502 and line segments 504 to form characters representing the text input.

[0066] Furthermore, the Sparsh Bharati cell 500 comprises one or more piezoelectric crystals 508 coupled to each pin 506, where the application of an electric field causes the piezoelectric crystals 508 to deform and move the pin 506 to raise or lower the dots 502 and line segments 504.

[0067] depicts / illustrates a method of displaying Sparsh Bharati characters on a Sparsh Bharati e-reader, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] The method 600 begins with connecting a Sparsh Bharati e-reader to a user device via a communication network, as depicted at step 602. Subsequently, the method 600 discloses receiving input from the user device, as depicted at step 604.

[0069] Thereafter, the method 600 discloses processing the received input via a processing unit to translate into one or more SB characters, as depicted at step 606. Subsequently, the method 600 discloses raising one or more dots of the SB e-reader via piezo effect of crystals, as depicted at step 608.

[0070] Thereafter, the method 600 discloses connecting each crystal to a lever, which in turn raises the dot to form line segments and isolated dots, as depicted at step 610. Subsequently, the method 600 discloses displaying the SB characters on a SB display, as depicted at step 612.

[0071] Advantages of the present invention includes improving accessibility and inclusivity for visually impaired and blind individuals in India. By acknowledging the limitations of existing braille systems and introducing innovative technologies, the present invention enables visually impaired individuals to fully experience the rich texture and structure of Indian language scripts. It fosters independence, enhances literacy rates, and provides equal access to educational, informational, and recreational materials.

[0072] Further, in the proposed system, the Sparsh Bharati characters are printed in an embossed form on a special medium. Blind individuals can read by feeling these letters with their fingertips.

[0073] Additionally, the present invention offers numerous advantages for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. One of the key benefits is the tactile reading experience they provide. Through touch, users can comprehend written content, enabling them to access and engage with information independently. Portability is another advantage, as Sparsh Bharati e-readers are lightweight and compact, making them convenient for use.

[0074] The dynamic Sparsh Bharati display is a standout feature, enabling users to seamlessly navigate through documents and books with real-time access to the text. These devices also offer various accessibility features, such as adjustable Sparsh Bharati dot sensitivity and text-to-speech capabilities, catering to individual preferences and needs.

[0075] Furthermore, the Sparsh Bharati e-readers support multiple languages, essentially, Indian languages, enabling users to access content in different languages. Connectivity options, like Bluetooth and USB, facilitate integration with other devices for easy data transfer and access to online content. With the Sparsh Bharati e-readers, individuals gain access to a wide range of digital content, including books, educational materials, and documents, enhancing their educational opportunities, employment prospects, and overall quality of life.

[0076] The Sparsh Bharati e-readers have diverse applications, including education, accessible literature, professional use, assistive technology, accessibility in digital media, personal use, and rehabilitation, empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired to access information, enhance literacy, and participate fully in various aspects of life.

[0077] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described here.

Claims

A system (100) with at least one Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) to enable tactile reading, comprising:the at least one Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) comprising:an input unit (202) to receive at least one text input;a processing unit (204) to process the received text input; andan output unit (210) comprising a Sparsh Bharati display (402), wherein the Sparsh Bharati display (402) comprises one or more dynamic Sparsh Bharati cells (500) to enable tactile reading of the text inputThe system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each Sparsh Bharati cell (500) comprises:multiple Sparsh Bharati dots (502);multiple line segments (504); anda set of pins (506) coupled to each of the dots (502) and line segments (504), to raise or lower the dots (502) and line segments (504) to form characters representing the text input.The system (100) as claimed in claim 2, comprising one or more piezoelectric crystals (508) coupled to each pin (506), wherein application of an electric field causes the piezoelectric crystals (508) to deform and move the pin (506) to raise or lower the dots (502) and line segments (504).The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each Sparsh Bharati cell (500) comprises a grid of four raised dots (502) and twelve raised line segments (504) arranged in two columns and two rows.The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, the input unit (202) being configured to access the text input by accessing the memory unit (206) within the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) or receive the text input wirelessly from a user device (102),wherein the input unit (202) comprises at least one of a keyboard (302), a touchscreen interface (304), an audio input (306), and USB / Bluetooth connectivity (308), and wherein the keyboard (302) comprises at least one of a Sparsh Bharati keyboard, and a QWERTY keyboard;an inverter module (222) configured for secure data handling and storage.The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the output unit (210) comprises an audio output (404) to convert text into synthesized speech.The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) is configured to communicate with at least one user device (102) via a communication network (106) to receive the text input.The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) comprising a power supply unit (212) configured to provide power to the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104), wherein the power supply unit (212) comprises at least one of a rechargeable battery, a replaceable battery, and a built-in battery that can be recharged via a USB cable or a power adapter.A method (600) for enabling blind and visually impaired people to read using a system (100), the method (600) comprising:receiving at least one text input through an input unit (202);processing the received text input via a processing unit (204); andenabling tactile reading of the text input via a Sparsh Bharati display (402) in an output unit (210), wherein the Sparsh Bharati display (402) comprises one or more dynamic Sparsh Bharati cells (500).The method (600) as claimed in claim 9, comprising providing each Sparsh Bharati cell (500) with:multiple Sparsh Bharati dots (502);multiple line segments (504); anda set of pins (506) coupled to each of the dots (502) and line segments (504), for raising or lowering the dots (502) and line segments (504) to form characters representing the text input;The method (600) as claimed in claim 10, comprising providing one or more piezoelectric crystals (508) coupled to each pin (506), wherein application of an electric field causes the piezoelectric crystals (508) to deform and move the pin (506) for raising or lowering the dots (502) and line segments (504).The method (600) as claimed in claim 9, comprising providing each Sparsh Bharati cell (500) with a grid of four raised dots (502) and twelve raised line segments (504) arranged in two columns and two rows.The method (600) as claimed in claim 9, comprising configuring the input unit (202) for:accessing the text input by accessing the memory unit (206) within the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) or receive the text input wirelessly from a user device (102), wherein the input unit (202) comprises at least one of a keyboard (302), a touchscreen interface (304), an audio input (306), and USB / Bluetooth connectivity (308), and wherein the keyboard (302) comprises at least one of a Sparsh Bharati keyboard, and a QWERTY keyboard.The method (600) as claimed in claim 9, comprising providing the output unit (210) with at least one of an audio output (404) to convert text into synthesized speech.The method (600) as claimed in claim 9, comprising configuring the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) for communicating with at least one user device (102) via a communication network (106) for receiving the text input.The method (600) as claimed in claim 1, comprising providing the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104) with a power supply unit (212) configured for providing power to the Sparsh Bharati e-reader (104), wherein the power supply unit (212) comprises at least one of a rechargeable battery, a replaceable battery, and a built-in battery that can be recharged via a USB cable or a power adapter.

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