Creating a system to convert visual STEM materials into tactile formats for blind and visually impaired learners.
STTR Phase II - Development of a visual-to-tactile conversion system for automating the tactile graphic generation process
This study is working on a smart system called Midlinatm that helps turn visual science and math materials into touchable formats, making it easier for blind and visually impaired students to learn and enjoy STEM subjects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Unar Labs, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (South Portland, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11062457 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop an AI-powered system called Midlinatm that automates the conversion of visual STEM materials into accessible tactile formats. The system will deliver content across various platforms, making it easier for blind and visually impaired (BVI) learners to access critical educational resources. By addressing the challenges of accessing non-textual information, this project seeks to enhance the learning experience for BVI students, allowing them to engage more fully with STEM curricula. The approach focuses on reducing the reliance on human effort in creating tactile graphics, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are blind and visually impaired learners aged 4-21 who are pursuing or interested in STEM education.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have visual impairments or those who are not engaged in STEM education may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve educational access and success for blind and visually impaired students in STEM fields.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been efforts to improve accessibility for BVI learners, this approach using AI for tactile graphic generation is relatively novel and has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
South Portland, UNITED STATES
- Unar Labs, LLC — South Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Palani, Hari Prasath — Unar Labs, LLC
- Study coordinator: Palani, Hari Prasath
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.