The BrailleDoodle™

Facts about Braille and the BrailleDoodle.

WHY LEARN BRAILLE?

Q. What is Braille, and why is learning Braille indispensable for those with visual impairments?

A. Braille is a tactile writing system used by people who are visually impaired. It can be read either on embossed paper or by using refreshable braille displays that connect to computers and smartphone devices. Braille can be written using a slate and stylus, a braille writer, an electronic braille notetaker, or with the use of a computer connected to a braille embosser. It enables them to read and write by using combinations of raised dots, making the BrailleDoodle a fundamental ealy learning tool for learning Braille.

Q.Where is Braille for blind people employed, and how does its application benefit in the context of art and digital accessibility, including Braille alphabet, braille numbers, and braille letters?

A. Braille is employed in various domains, including:

• Education: The Braille alphabet, Braille numbers, and Braille letters, enabling blind students to study mathematics (Nemith Braille), science, social studies, writing, research and reporting, pleasure reading, and much more.
• Braille labels.
• Art and Creativity: Braille’s tactile nature extends to braille art, allowing visually impaired individuals to create and appreciate art for blind people through raised dots and patterns. Braille-like tactile creations can be made on machines.
• Braille signs.
• Digital Accessibility: On websites and digital platforms, Braille readers, electronic braille, note-takers, and screen readers make online content accessible to those with visual impairments, fostering inclusivity.
• Braille Maps.

Q. What role does Braille play in braille writer tools and refreshable braille devices like the refreshable braille display, and how does it enhance the experience of users in terms of letters for Braille and Braille alphabet numbers?

A. Braille is integral to braille writer tools and refreshable braille devices such as the refreshable braille display. These devices empower users to write, read, and comprehend letters of the alphabet in Braille, Braille numbers, and more. 

FACTS ABOUT THE BRAILLEDOODLE

Q. What are the dimensions of the BrailleDoodle, and what materials is it made of? 

A. The BrailleDoodle has the following dimensions: 

– Length: 12.8 inches (325 mm) 

– Width: 9.25 inches (235 mm) 

– Thickness: 1.1 inches (27 mm) 

This innovative Braille device is constructed from durable dark blue plastic, offering a tangible experience for those aiming to learn letters Braille and create tactile images.

Q. Can you provide a detailed description of the ‘Braille Side’ of the BrailleDoodle for those interested in learning Braille?

A. The ‘Braille Side’ of the BrailleDoodle features the word “BrailleDoodle” centered in yellow and houses an array of holes meticulously arranged in two sizes of Braille cells. Within each of these cells, you’ll find a tiny metal ball that can be raised to the surface using a magnetic stylus, allowing for a dynamic Braille alphabet learning experience. Moreover, four rows of eight rectangles are thoughtfully included, making it an excellent tool for learning Braille letters, along with indicators for both Braille numbers and capitals. Common sight words are also presented in Braille contractions to enhance the learning process.

Q. How does the ‘Doodle Side’ of the BrailleDoodle contribute to art for blind people, allow a blind artist to create, and what other features does it offer?

A. The ‘Doodle Side’ of the BrailleDoodle opens up a world of possibilities for art for blind people. It is adorned with an array of 41 by 31 holes, totaling 1333 dots, each strategically placed to create tactile representations. This side also introduces specialized cover options that act as stencils for a variety of applications, including Braille music, math, contractions, shapes, graphs, Braille in any language and more.

Q. What distinguishes the BrailleDoodle stylus?

A. The BrailleDoodle stylus is meticulously designed for ease of use. Measuring 4.6 inches (117mm) in length, it features a rounded magnet on one end and a tether hole on the other. With the stylus shaped like a thick pen, it measures .5 inches (13mm) at its widest point and includes a triangular grip for those who may not be accustomed to holding a pen. This ergonomic design ensures that it is an ideal tool for early Braille writers and those seeking to explore a refreshable Braille device and create tactile images.