3D Printed Maps and Icons for Inclusion: Testing in the Wild by People who are Blind or have Low Vision

[Wotipati]

Links

• Paper: https://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=3353790

Abstract

• The difficulty and consequent fear of travel is one of the most disabling consequences of blindness and severe vision impairment, affecting confidence and quality of life. Traditional tactile graphics are vital in the Orientation and Mobility training process, however 3D printing may have the capacity to enable production of more meaningful and inclusive maps. This study explored the use of 3D printed maps on site at a public event to examine their suitability and to identify guidelines for the design of future 3D maps. An iterative design process was used in the production of the 3D maps, with feedback from visitors who are blind or have low vision informing the recommendations for their design and use. For example, it was found that many representational 3D icons could be recognised by touch without the need for a key and that such a map helped form mental models of the event space. Complex maps, however, require time to explore and should be made available before an event or at the entrance in a comfortable position. The maps were found to support the orientation and mobility process, and importantly to also promote a positive message about inclusion and accessibility.

• 3Dプリンタで作成した立体地図（Figure 1: A2サイズ）のデザインのガイドラインを提案

• ユーザ実験を通して地図上のアイコン（Figure 1＆3: 1.5–2.5cm in width and/or height）の最適なデザインも提案

  

[XiyueWang-Miraikan]

Approach

• The study aimed to investigate two fundamental research questions:
  • RQ1. What guidelines should be used for the creation of 3D maps?
  • RQ2. What role can 3D maps play in O&M for events such as the Garden Show?

Results

Design Guideline (RQ1)

• Recognition of 3D printed icons
  • Easily recognized icons are necessary.
  • Some difficulties: find (information), recognize by touch (water tap) or interpret (you are here).
  • 3D icons can be recognized at a minimum size of approximately 1.5cm³, with at least 1cm gap between adjacent icons.
  • 3D icons placed on a base map should have the most important features at the top for easy access by touch.
    • Icons that are difficult to recognize: it was felt from the top but there were important details lower down.
• Roads, pathways, and textures
  • Wider pathways may have been preferable.
• Realism versus symbolism
  • Icons could be easier to understand than realistic features.
  • Use of icons could cause some confusion regarding scale.
• Labelling
  • Labelling or a key is required because not all elements can be easily recognized by all people.
  • The print labels need to be larger than N21.
  • Audio labels could also be added.
• Standardization
• Scale
• Complexity
• Contrast
• Construction issues
  • Durability.

    Supporting orientation and mobility (RQ2)

• It could be used to assist wayfinding in four components:
  • Orientation, route decisions, mental mapping, and closure (detecting and arriving at the right place).

    Engagement and inclusion (RQ2)

• 3D printed maps are a format that can provide not just accessibility but also inclusion:
  • They were appealing to BLV and sighted visitors.
  • Parents used children's interests to teach them about map reading, accessibility, and braille.

    Implementation Guidelines (RQ2)

• Create 3D accessible maps of high-use public spaces.
• Training and experience are not necessary to read and understand accessible 3D maps, however familiarisation with commonly used icons would be helpful.
• Maps should ideally be made available for study before going to the mapped location. They should also be provided at entrances.
• Large, complex maps should be tilted for use while seated as they can require considerable time to explore and understand. The map and reader should be protected from the weather.
• Accessible 3D maps provide a positive message about inclusion and accessibility, as they are of interest and use to the sighted community as well as people who are blind or have low vision.

[XiyueWang-Miraikan]

Experiment

• Evaluate the usefulness of these maps for BLV visitors “in the wild” at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.
• A series of set questions were asked over 10–30 minute semi-structured interviews. Responses were given as yes/no/maybe and additional comments were gathered via audio recording. The feedback was collected on-site on the day (n=6), or shortly afterward via phone (n=3) or at home (n=1).
• After the conclusion of the Garden Show, an email was sent to staff and volunteers who worked there asking for feedback via an online survey.