Blind Navigation Map

Written By Enabling Engineering

Creating an 3D map of the Museum for visually impaired.

The Need

Individuals with visual impairments have been traditionally limited in their interactions with visual art museums. This project is focused on creating a 3D printed map of the layout of the Museum of Fine Art to enable individuals with visual impairments to independently orient themselves around the MFA.

The Solution

The primary objective is to enhance the MFA way-finding experience for individuals with visual impairments via a portable, tactile map by extruding the digital copy of the map to develop a physical 3D print. The map is easily transportable, tactile, and comprehensible. For transportability, we developed a 3D printed map booklet of the four levels combined by binder rings. While the booklet will be tactile regardless, we want to ensure that the tactile experience is comfortable and discernible. Lastly, to ensure the map is comprehensible, we plan on experimenting with various sizes, extrusion heights and symbol markers. We have completed the prototype of the first floor map and working towards designing the remaining floors of the museum.

The Team

  • Evan Alexander

Enabling Engineering
Previous

X-Max Game Controller
Next

Oscilloscope for the Blind