Competitive Advantages:
Simple and easy to use, Effective mapping tools, Applicable for both 2D and 3D maps, Ability to turn 2D into 3D, Automated tactile properties required for visually impaired.
method for generating three dimensional indicators for the visually impaired. The method includes selecting one or more pre-designed symbols from a plurality of pre-designed symbols. The pre-designed symbols represent standard building layout features and are sized to be readable via a physical touch. The method further includes inserting the one or more selected symbols into a two dimensional digital layout, and generating one or more of an orientation object and a legend object into the two dimensional digital layout. The method further includes converting the two dimensional digital layout into a three dimensional digital model, and generating an output file including the three dimensional model in a format compatible with a three dimensional printing device.USF inventors created an application which allows the user to easily generate 2D maps that are converted to tactile 3D maps. The software provides tools to add information such as emergency evacuation routes, movable doors, and legend to the map. These tools allow the maps to be made in a more effective manner for blind and low vision users to understand and navigate locations. The software allows the user to draw 2D maps with necessary symbols, layouts, paths, and text. From this 2D map, a 3D map can be automatically generated and 3D printed. This software increases the accessibility and ease of creating 3D tactile maps.
