November 17, 2008 Capturing an image takes on a different meaning with the Touch Sight camera. The device makes it possible for the visually impaired to take digital photos by using a Braille-like screen to make a raised image on the user’s forehead of whatever the lens sees.
Designed by Chueh Lee from Samsung China, the camera aims to provide a means of recording the mental photograph that the visually-impaired create of their surroundings using senses other than sight. It records sound for three seconds after pressing the shutter button so that the user can then use the sound as a reference when reviewing and managing the photos and in place of an LCD screen, the camera has a lightweight, flexible Braille display sheet which shows a 3D image by embossing the surface. The sound and picture combine to become a touchable photo. This image can then be saved on the camera as well as be uploaded to share with others–and downloaded to other Touch Sight cameras.
The use of the forehead as the optimal position for the camera was uncovered by Chueh during his research. An instructor who teaches a photography course for the visually impaired in Israel had discovered that holding the camera to the forehead is the easiest way to keep the camera still, and becomes almost like a third eye. The instructor also found the visually impaired have no problems estimating distances, since their sense of hearing is especially sharp.
The Touch Sight camera makes was recently named among Time Magazine's Best Inventions of 2008.
Via: Yanko Design