Implementation of Real-Time Grade2 Digital Braile System for Person with Visual Imparment

Abstract

Braille literacy is crucial for enabling visually impaired people to gain education and information independently. However, traditional embossed Braille materials are bulky, expensive to produce, and limited in their availability. In this context, the present work proposes a real-time digital Braille learning system to support Grade 1 and Grade 2 Braille with compact, low-cost, and interactive learning using both haptic and audio feedback in order to facilitate greater user interaction. Accordingly, this paper describes a microcontroller-based architecture for converting input text into the corresponding Grade 2 Braille patterns using predefined translation rules. A refreshable six-dot Braille cell is constructed with solenoid actuators that raise and lower the pins to form the required tactile dots for every letter. Two push buttons enable users to iterate through alphabets, while an audio playback module offers synchronized voice output. Such a dual-feedback strategy thus allows the users to feel and hear each character simultaneously, aiding better recognition and learning efficiency. Experimental testing showed that all the alphabet patterns were generated correctly by the solenoids, and the audio output was synchronous with every character with negligible time delay. The device can operate reliably on a portable battery supply to offer ease of handling and mobility. Overall, the proposed digital Braille system provides a practical, low-cost approach toward increasing accessibility in learning, particularly for contracted Grade 2 Braille, thereby contributing toward educational inclusion of visually impaired people.