TouchPad Pro Assistive Technology, (TPPAT) has developed the BrailleDoodle, a simple, high-quality device made with plastics, springs, and magnets. The devices focus on: tactile art, braille literacy, technology, and expanding inclusive opportunities. The company wants to create devices that will change the landscape of assistive technology for the blind, deaf-blind, and low-vision community.
Daniel Lubiner is the founder and CEO of TPPAT. He is an art teacher for students ages five through 21 who are blind or have low vision in the Bronx at the New York Institute of Special Education. One hundred ninety years old this year, it is one of the oldest schools for the blind in the United States.
What is the BrailleDoodle?
The BrailleDoodle is a device about an iPad’s size; only it is made in hard dark blue plastic. There is an array of hundreds of holes, placed tightly together, that covers the surface. Each hole contains a tiny element that can be pulled to the surface by a magnetic stylus and locked into place to create a touchable effect. The user erases a creation by pushing the elements back down with a satisfying “pop.”
How is the company funding the project?
The company has launched an Indiegogo to kickstart their first product. It will run for 24 more days.
How much will it cost?
The BrailleDoodle is an inexpensive and high-quality device for, creating touchable drawings, teaching braille even when Remote Learning and practicing braille.
With its estimated retail price of approximately $65, it is already the cause for much excitement.
Here is the link to the Indiegogo campaign.
