Tactile Block Software Development System for Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current software development methods are either costly and time-consuming when outsourced or require advanced programming skills for DIY development, and lack accessibility for visually challenged individuals due to the absence of tactile technology for GUI design and logic statements.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses physical blocks of varying shapes, textures, and Braille markings, interpreted by a camera-connected computer to map interactions into digital software code, enabling visually challenged individuals to develop software interactively without writing code and providing audio feedback for real-time modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If software development is outsourced to entities without advanced programming skills, then software can be deployed for business or personal use, but the development process becomes time-consuming and expensive with additional costs for each revision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a visual programming interface with drag-and-drop blocks as an intermediary between the user and the software compilation process. This mediator translates simple visual arrangements into executable code, eliminating the need for users to write complex programming instructions while significantly reducing development time compared to traditional outsourcing methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual code writing and iterative revision with an automated visual programming system. The drag-and-drop interface automatically generates and compiles code in real-time, substituting the manual mechanical process of coding with an automated visual manipulation process that is both faster and more accessible
2Productivity
If DIY software development is used to save money and time, then software can be developed independently, but advanced computer programming skills and creative/artistic skills are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex software development process into simple, discrete visual blocks that can be independently selected and arranged. Each block represents a specific function or code segment, breaking down the complex task of programming into manageable, skill-independent units that can be combined through simple drag-and-drop operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses pre-defined visual blocks that represent common code structures and functions. Instead of requiring users to create code from scratch, the system provides copyable visual templates that can be directly applied to common programming tasks, eliminating the need for advanced programming knowledge while maintaining development efficiency
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional software development tools are used, then software can be developed with advanced programming skills, but there is no tactile technology available for visually challenged individuals to design GUI layouts or logic statements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional visual screens to three-dimensional tactile blocks with raised surfaces, Braille markings, and tactile indicators. This dimensional change allows visually challenged users to perceive and manipulate code structures through touch, providing accessibility to software development while maintaining the ability to create complex GUI layouts and logic statements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces tactile blocks with Braille markings and raised features as an intermediary between visually challenged users and the software development process. These tactile mediators translate visual code elements into touchable forms, enabling users to design GUI layouts and logic statements through tactile manipulation rather than visual inspection
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for software development or modification. Systems transform interactions with physical blocks by a human developer on an activity surface into computer-understandable digital information or logic for developing or modifying software (e.g., websites or mobile applications) in real-time or near real-time. The physical blocks are representative of software elements used in software development. For example, the structures, colors, shapes or hardness/softness/squeeze/bend/flex/elastic/shape-memory/rigid properties, whether symmetrical or asymmetrical, whether open-shaped or close-shaped of the physical blocks can determine which software elements are being developed and the arrangement of the blocks can be mapped to how the software elements are to be included in the software. Users located remotely from the developer can provide annotations or feedback to the software being developed in real-time.