braille input

[cpt.kirk@1tree.net]

One thing that strikes me about this mode of input. It seems like it would
be a compact method of inputing items and should have a much higher input
rate then the scribbles that many PDAs use. I am inclined to think that
the user should have a choice as to inputing either reverse like a typical
slate and stylus or forward like it is read. I would hate to force
something on someone that is used to reversing their braille writting. But
hey, I am somewhat ignorant. I can read and write about grade 1.3 braille.
I know some of the grade 2 stuff, but not all of it. And it has been
awhile.

The other Kirk had brought up using a template with translation software
to make use of the touch screen that is already on any PDa arround. While
the idea is certainly sound and workable, I don't have a PDA. In fact all
my blind friends are incapable of using any PDA today because they are all
totals.

If there is interest here, I will start working on a braille input method.
In fact, I probably will anyway because Buddy and I had decided that we
wanted to see a PDA like device for cheper the a Braille and Speak. We had
been looking for some sort of keyboard, but this seems like a way to keep
the size small, but stay usable. Any feedback is welcome.

Also, please let me know if your interested in playing with such a device
in intrest of advancing an idea. Formulating in my head, I think it
reasonable to have some prototyping done within a month. But this would be
a rough device to explore the method of input more then anything.

Kirk Wood
Cpt.Kirk@1tree.net
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Your fly might be open (but don't check it just now).