| 摘要 |
An optical-input print reading device (1) for people with impaired or no vision in which the user passes a mouse assembly (2) containing a camera (25) over the text to be read. Images of this text are input to a computer (3), which decodes the images into their symbolic meanings through optical character recognition (31). By assembling words together from overlapping groups of text elements, whole words are created. Using also the recognized character position output of the optical character recognition (31), the computer (3) directs a linear tactile display (53) contained within the mouse (2) assembly to indicate to the user the presence and vertical alignment of recognized alphanumeric text under the unit. This feedback allows the user to locate and properly align and guide the mouse (2) assembly across the text to be read. Furthermore, through a speech synthesizer (61), the words are spoken audibly as they are passed over. As the divice requires only one hand to operate, its uses include reading food packaging, pill bottlles, currency, and price tags, as well as printed sheets. In a portable form, this device provides a means for low-vision and blind people to function more fully in their everyday lives. |
