The Talking Tactile Tablet, nicknamed “TTT” or "T3", is an inexpensive, rugged and simple new computer peripheral device designed for use as a “viewer” for audio/tactile materials.   Most simply, it consists of an off-the-shelf computer touch screen connected to a PC via a USB cable. A hinged, weighted frame holds one of a large collection of tactile graphic sheet motionless in place against a touch-sensitive surface.  When a user presses points on a tactile sheet that is mounted on the TTT, his or her finger pressure is transmitted through the flexible PVC material, the location of the point pressed is sent to the computer.  By comparing the position of each pick against a database of predefined hotspots, the computer is able to provide identifying audio feedback to the user, as a confirmation and elaboration of the information supplied through touching.  By this means, complicated tactile figures can be made comprehendible.   A substantial, and growing, library of engaging and educational applications has been produced for use on the TTT platform.  

Lars Anderson, Senior Principal Systems Engineer with Honors at Raytheon Systems Company, and father of 10 year old Kari, who is totally blind, supported Touch Graphics in a recent proposal submitted to National Science Foundation.  To read Lars' and other TTT testimonials, click here.