Fingerprint Scanner Braille Reading via Vibration Mapping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current braille reading solutions for visually impaired individuals, such as smartphone braille readers and text-to-speech systems, are not cost-effective, unnatural, slow, or inadequate for technical vocabulary, and lack tactile feedback, which is preferred by some users.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a fingerprint scanner and vibration mechanism to simulate braille reading by mapping fingerprints onto six predefined areas corresponding to braille dots, generating distinct vibrations for filled and hollow dots to represent braille characters, allowing users to read braille through tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized braille reader systems like refreshable braille displays are used, then braille reading accuracy is improved, but device cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a fingerprint sensor to capture and process fingerprint patterns as a substitute for expensive specialized braille display hardware. The fingerprint patterns are mapped to represent braille characters, creating a cost-effective copy or alternative representation that achieves similar functional goals without requiring costly specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical raised-dot braille display system with an electronic fingerprint sensing and vibration feedback system. Instead of physically moving braille dots, the system uses fingerprint pattern recognition combined with vibration motors to convey braille information tactilely, substituting a mechanical system with an electronic one.
2Ease of manufacture
If smartphone braille readers using the whole screen are used, then device cost is reduced, but reading speed decreases and naturalness is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fingerprint sensor area into six predefined regions corresponding to the six dot positions in a braille cell. By segmenting the sensing area and mapping each region to a specific braille dot position, the system enables rapid character recognition through localized fingerprint pattern analysis, significantly improving reading speed compared to whole-screen methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different processing and mapping rules to different regions of the fingerprint sensor, with each of the six predefined areas corresponding to a specific braille dot position. This local differentiation allows the system to efficiently determine braille character states by analyzing fingerprint patterns in specific locations, enhancing both speed and accuracy.
3Ease of manufacture
If text-to-speech solutions are used, then device cost is reduced, but tactile feedback capability is lost and handling of technical vocabulary is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses vibration motors to generate tactile feedback that simulates the sensation of raised braille dots. By controlling vibration patterns and frequencies, the system provides authentic tactile feedback that allows visually impaired users to feel and interpret braille characters through touch, rather than relying solely on auditory text-to-speech output.
4Productivity
If fingerprint areas are mapped to braille dot positions, then reading efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a fingerprint sensor, which is a common component in modern smartphones and tablets, for a dual purpose: both authentication and braille reading. This multi-functional use of an existing component reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high reading efficiency, as the same hardware serves multiple functions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables cost-effective, natural, and efficient braille reading on consumer devices like smartphones and tablets, effectively handling technical vocabulary and providing tactile feedback, improving reading speed and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
generating distinct vibrations for filled and hollow dots to represent braille characters, allowing users to read braille through tactile feedback
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for braille reading using a fingerprint scanner and varying vibration frequencies are disclosed. A method includes: obtaining, by a computer device, data defining a braille cell; identifying, by the computer device, one of six predefined areas of a fingerprint based on the one of the six predefined areas being centered on a fingerprint sensor; determining, by the computer device, a state of a braille dot of the braille cell that corresponds to the one of the six predefined areas of the fingerprint; and generating, by the computer device, one of a first type of vibration and a second type of vibration based on the determined state of the braille dot.