Braille e-book concept makes online reading more accessible

Texts can be downloaded from a range of sources for translation into Braille

Spotted: Russian engineering student Aleksei Rezepov’s Braille e-book concept is a national finalist in the 2021 James Dyson Award. The book allows people with limited or no sight to read a range of online materials without depending on audio translations. Audio options are generally limited to a small range of content and simply don’t work for people with multiple disabilities.  

The new e-book works by having readers download texts that are then translated into Braille, which is read via raised buttons on the screen. The book is lightweight and designed to fit into most handbags and backpacks. Control buttons for the device are located around the screen.  

Following the shortlisting for the James Dyson Award, Rezepov is continuing work on building the prototype and further improving the e-book’s design and functionality.  

From navigational devices designed to replicate the services provided by a seeing-eye dog to a 3D printed tactile map, innovations helping people with limited vision are becoming smarter and more sophisticated. The hand-held device processes real-time data for easier and safer travel and other public interactions, and the map is made to withstand the rigours of intense handling.  

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