The sense of touch provides new computer interaction techniques for disabled people

Abstract:
Windows and the World Wide Web are two of the keys to the IT-explosion that we are all caught up in. Computers can do more and more and are getting easier to use. But how does a blind person handle a graphical environment like Windows?



This article deals with Certec’s efforts to find a way to use haptics, i.e. controlling with movements and getting feedback via the sense of touch, to provide new computer interaction techniques for visually impaired people and people with physical disabilities. Haptic technology makes it possible to extend the range of touch from the length of an arm to a virtually unlimited distance.