Device Details

Overview

The Braille Calculator uses a Makey Makey Classic, 3D printed Braille, and a scratch project to allow users to do simple addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division, with audio feedback. The calculator allows the user to input a mathematical expression, guess the answer, and finally gives the correct answer. The calculator then audibly verifies if the user’s answer was correct or incorrect. This device can be used with any PC, tablet, phone, or device with a USB (type-A) port and internet connection.

Usage

This device is intended for individuals with a visual impairment in an education setting to practice math. The user is able to interact with an online calculator project created in Scratch that audibly interacts with their inputs using the brass contact points. The calculator includes 3D printed Braille labels of what each contact point represents. The calculator is capable of performing a single multiplication, division, addition, or subtraction action at a time. This calculator is compatible with any device that has a USB (type-A) port and an internet connection.

An example of the usage of this device is in the photos and video section of the GitHub page linked above.

Build Instructions

An assembly guide can be found in the documentation on this device page. If you are fulfilling a request for this device, please take a look at the maker checklist document before you start the build to help walk you through the process.

SKILLS REQUIRED

  • 3D Printing
  • Assembly

TOOLS

  • Glue (hot glue, stick glue, etc)
  • 3D printer
  • Scissors
  • Ink Printer
  • Wire stripper

COMPONENTS

3D PRINTING

Device requires 19 3D printed Braille labels. These are quick and take minimal filament. The 3D print files are downloadable on this page and do not require supports to print. The 3D printing guide file gives recommendations on settings for a successful print.

Attribution

Through our partnership with Makey Makey, Katie Butzu, and Mark Lyons, workshops were hosted to help disability professionals learn how they could gamify their work. Then we challenged these disability professionals to create their own assistive technology for clients! This project was created by Tracy Zhang and modified by the MMC team to include 3D printed Braille.