Usability Evaluation of Tactile Map Symbols across Three Production Technologies

2018 ◽  
Vol 112 (6) ◽  
pp. 745-758 ◽  
Author(s):  
Megen E. Brittell ◽  
Amy K. Lobben ◽  
Megan M. Lawrence

Introduction Technological advances have introduced three-dimensional (3-D) printing as an option for creating tactile maps for people with visual impairments (that is, those who are blind or have low vision), diversifying the types of map products that are available. At the same time, it presents a challenge to map makers to implement designs across multiple production methods. We evaluated map symbols to determine their discriminability across three different materials: microcapsule paper, 3-D printer plastic, and embossed paper. Methods In a single session lasting less than 90 minutes, participants completed a matching task and provided informal feedback regarding their preferences. We measured speed and accuracy to establish discriminability of map symbols on each of the materials. Eighteen participants were recruited from a referred sample among attendees at the American Council of the Blind annual convention in 2013. Results Response times were significantly different across the three materials (p < 0.001). Without sacrificing accuracy, response times were faster for the 3-D printed graphics than for either the microcapsule paper (p < 0.001) or the embossed paper (p < 0.001). User preference was divided across the three materials. Some people disliked the “sharp” corners of the 3-D printed symbols, while others preferred their “crisp” edges. Discussion Our results demonstrate faster discriminability of a set of tactile symbols produced on a 3-D printer compared to those same symbols printed on microcapsule paper, the material for which the symbols were originally designed. Participant feedback reflected preferences both in favor of and against reading symbols produced on the 3-D printer. Implications for practitioners This article discusses the functional equivalence of tactile symbols produced across multiple production technologies. It addresses two considerations when using 3-D printing to make tactile maps: preparing digital files for printing and the printing work flow. Digital files ready for printing on each of the three materials are available for download (Brittell, Lobben, & Lawrence 2016).

Perception ◽  
10.1068/p3253 ◽  
2002 ◽  
Vol 31 (6) ◽  
pp. 747-769 ◽  
Author(s):  
Morton A Heller ◽  
Deneen D Brackett ◽  
Eric Scroggs ◽  
Heather Steffen ◽  
Kim Heatherly ◽  
...  

Perception of raised-line pictures in blindfolded-sighted, congenitally blind, late-blind, and low-vision subjects was studied in a series of experiments. The major aim of the study was to examine the value of perspective drawings for haptic pictures and visually impaired individuals. In experiment 1, subjects felt two wooden boards joined at 45°, 90°, or 135°, and were instructed to pick the correct perspective drawing from among four choices. The first experiment on perspective found a significant effect of visual status, with much higher performance by the low-vision subjects. Mean performance for the congenitally blind subjects was not significantly different from that of the late-blind and blindfolded-sighted subjects. In a further experiment, blindfolded subjects drew tangible pictures of three-dimensional (3-D) geometric solids, and then engaged in a matching task. Counter to expectations, performance was not impaired for the 3-D drawings as compared with the frontal viewpoints. Subjects were also especially fast and more accurate when matching top views. Experiment 5 showed that top views were easiest for all of the visually impaired subjects, including those who were congenitally blind. Experiment 5 yielded higher performance for 3-D than frontal viewpoints. The results of all of the experiments were consistent with the idea that visual experience is not necessary for understanding perspective drawings of geometrical objects.


Author(s):  
Edita Poljac ◽  
Ab de Haan ◽  
Gerard P. van Galen

Two experiments investigated the way that beforehand preparation influences general task execution in reaction-time matching tasks. Response times (RTs) and error rates were measured for switching and nonswitching conditions in a color- and shape-matching task. The task blocks could repeat (task repetition) or alternate (task switch), and the preparation interval (PI) was manipulated within-subjects (Experiment 1) and between-subjects (Experiment 2). The study illustrated a comparable general task performance after a long PI for both experiments, within and between PI manipulations. After a short PI, however, the general task performance increased significantly for the between-subjects manipulation of the PI. Furthermore, both experiments demonstrated an analogous preparation effect for both task switching and task repetitions. Next, a consistent switch cost throughout the whole run of trials and a within-run slowing effect were observed in both experiments. Altogether, the present study implies that the effects of the advance preparation go beyond the first trials and confirms different points of the activation approach ( Altmann, 2002) to task switching.


Author(s):  
Luciano César PC Leonel ◽  
Lucas P. Carlstrom ◽  
Christopher S. Graffeo ◽  
Avital Perry ◽  
Carlos Diogenes Pinheiro-Neto ◽  
...  

Abstract Objective This study was aimed to provide a key update to the seminal works of Prof. Albert L. Rhoton Jr., MD, with particular attention to previously unpublished insights from the oral tradition of his fellows, recent technological advances including endoscopy, and high-dynamic range (HDR) photodocumentation, and, local improvements in technique, we have developed to optimize efficient neuroanatomic study. Methods Two formaldehyde-fixed cadaveric heads were injected with colored latex to demonstrate step-by-step specimen preparation for microscopic or endoscopic dissection. One formaldehyde-fixed brain was utilized to demonstrate optimal three-dimensional (3D) photodocumentation techniques. Results Key steps of specimen preparation include vessel cannulation and securing, serial tap water flushing, specimen drainage, vessel injection with optimized and color-augmented latex material, and storage in 70% ethanol. Optimizations for photodocumentation included the incorporation of dry black drop cloth and covering materials, an imaging-oriented approach to specimen positioning and illumination, and single-camera stereoscopic capture techniques, emphasizing the three-exposure-times-per-eye approach to generating images for HDR postprocessing. Recommended tools, materials, and technical nuances were emphasized throughout. Relative advantages and limitations of major 3D projection systems were comparatively assessed, with sensitivity to audience size and purpose specific recommendations. Conclusion We describe the first consolidated step-by-step approach to advanced neuroanatomy, including specimen preparation, dissection, and 3D photodocumentation, supplemented by previously unpublished insights from the Rhoton fellowship experience and lessons learned in our laboratories in the past years such that Prof. Rhoton's model can be realized, reproduced, and expanded upon in surgical neuroanatomy laboratories worldwide.


1995 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 197-202 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anthony J. Reino ◽  
William Lawson ◽  
Baxter J. Garcia ◽  
Robert J. Greenstein

Technological advances in video imaging over the last decade have resulted in remarkable additions to the armamentarium of instrumentation for the otolaryngologist. The use of video cameras and computer generated imaging in the operating room and office is invaluable for documentation and teaching purposes. Despite the obvious advantages of these systems, problems are evident, the most serious of which include image distortion and inability to judge depth of field. For more than 6 decades 3D imaging has been neither technically nor commercially successful. Reasons include alignment difficulties and image distortion. The result is “visual fatigue,” usually in about 15 minutes. At its extreme, this may be characterized by headache, nausea, and even vomiting. In this study, we employed the first 3D video imager to electronically manipulate a single video source to produce 3D images; therefore, neither alignment nor image distortions were produced. Of interest to the clinical surgeon, “visual fatigue” does not seem to occur; however, with prolonged procedures (greater than 2 hours) there exists the potential for physical intolerance for some individuals. This is the first unit that is compatible with any rigid or flexible videoendoscopic system and the small diameter endoscopes available for endoscopic sinus surgery. Moreover, prerecorded 2D tapes may be viewed in 3D on an existing VCR. The 3D image seems to provide enhanced anatomic awareness with less image distortion. We have found this system to be optically superior to the 2D video imagers currently available.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nishchay A. Isaac ◽  
Johannes Reiprich ◽  
Leslie Schlag ◽  
Pedro H. O. Moreira ◽  
Mostafa Baloochi ◽  
...  

AbstractThis study demonstrates the fabrication of self-aligning three-dimensional (3D) platinum bridges for ammonia gas sensing using gas-phase electrodeposition. This deposition scheme can guide charged nanoparticles to predetermined locations on a surface with sub-micrometer resolution. A shutter-free deposition is possible, preventing the use of additional steps for lift-off and improving material yield. This method uses a spark discharge-based platinum nanoparticle source in combination with sequentially biased surface electrodes and charged photoresist patterns on a glass substrate. In this way, the parallel growth of multiple sensing nodes, in this case 3D self-aligning nanoparticle-based bridges, is accomplished. An array containing 360 locally grown bridges made out of 5 nm platinum nanoparticles is fabricated. The high surface-to-volume ratio of the 3D bridge morphology enables fast response and room temperature operated sensing capabilities. The bridges are preconditioned for ~ 24 h in nitrogen gas before being used for performance testing, ensuring drift-free sensor performance. In this study, platinum bridges are demonstrated to detect ammonia (NH3) with concentrations between 1400 and 100 ppm. The sensing mechanism, response times, cross-sensitivity, selectivity, and sensor stability are discussed. The device showed a sensor response of ~ 4% at 100 ppm NH3 with a 70% response time of 8 min at room temperature.


2014 ◽  
Vol 5 ◽  
pp. MEI.S13342
Author(s):  
Francesca Destro ◽  
Noemi Cantone ◽  
Mario Lima

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a relatively new surgery comprising various procedures performed with special miniaturized instruments and imaging reproduction systems. Technological advances have made MIS an efficient, safe, and applicable tool for pediatric surgeons with unquestionable advantages. The recent introduction of three-dimensional (3D) high definition systems has been advocated in order to overcome some of the problems related to standard MIS visual limitations. This short paper recapitulates the necessity to minimize MIS visualization limitations and reports the characteristics of new laparoscopic 3D systems.


2013 ◽  
Vol 319 ◽  
pp. 343-347
Author(s):  
Ru Ting Xia ◽  
Xiao Yan Zhou

This research aimed to reveal characteristics of visual attention of low-vision drivers. Near and far stimuli were used by means of a three-dimensional (3D) attention measurement system that simulated traffic environment. We measured the reaction time of subjects while attention shifted in three kinds of imitational peripheral environment illuminance (daylight, twilight and dawn conditions). Subjects were required to judge whether the target presented nearer than fixation point or further than it. The results showed that the peripheral environment illuminance had evident influence on the reaction time of drivers, the reaction time was slow in dawn and twilight conditions than in daylight condition, distribution of attention had the advantage in nearer space than farther space, that is, and the shifts of attention in 3D space had an anisotropy characteristic in depth. The results suggested that (1) visual attention might be operated with both precueing paradigm and stimulus controls included the depth information, (2) an anisotropy characteristic of attention shifting depend on the attention moved distance, and it showed remarkably in dawn condition than in daylight and twilight conditions.


2014 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 107-113 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gabriele Dória Cabral Correia ◽  
Fernando Antonio Lima Habib ◽  
Carlos Jorge Vogel

INTRODUCTION: Technological advances in Dentistry have emerged primarily in the area of diagnostic tools. One example is the 3D scanner, which can transform plaster models into three-dimensional digital models. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the reliability of tooth size-arch length discrepancy analysis measurements performed on three-dimensional digital models, and compare these measurements with those obtained from plaster models. MATERIAL AND METHODS: To this end, plaster models of lower dental arches and their corresponding three-dimensional digital models acquired with a 3Shape R700T scanner were used. All of them had lower permanent dentition. Four different tooth size-arch length discrepancy calculations were performed on each model, two of which by manual methods using calipers and brass wire, and two by digital methods using linear measurements and parabolas. RESULTS: Data were statistically assessed using Friedman test and no statistically significant differences were found between the two methods (P > 0.05), except for values found by the linear digital method which revealed a slight, non-significant statistical difference. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results, it is reasonable to assert that any of these resources used by orthodontists to clinically assess tooth size-arch length discrepancy can be considered reliable.


2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 62 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suzan Cangul ◽  
Ozkan Adiguzel

Imaging methods are of great importance for diagnosis and treatment in dentistry. With technological advances, great progress has been made in these methods. Over time, 3-dimensional (3-D) imaging has replaced 2-dimensional, thereby providing examination of objects in all directions. Of these methods, which play an important role in the clinical evaluation of patients, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is the newest and most advanced imaging method. This method will revolutionize dental in comparison with conventional CT, it has several advantages, including a shorter scanning time, low radiation dose, low cost and the acquisition of high-resolution images. With 3-D imaging technology, this method has introduced the possibility of applying several procedures from diagnosis in the maxillofacial region to operative and surgical procedures. Although very clear results are not obtained from the imaging of soft tissues, the most important advantage of this technology is the capability of imaging hard and soft tissues together.   How to cite this article: Cangul S, Adiguzel O. Cone-Beam Three-Dimensional Dental Volumetric Tomography in Dental Practice. Int Dent Res 2017;7:62-70.  Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.


Author(s):  
John S. Gray ◽  
Michael Elliott

One of the truisms of sampling design is that the design depends on the objectives. Too often objectives are not defined properly, with the result that the data collected cannot be used to answer the questions posed. A good example is that of a monitoring programme that aims to detect changes in an assemblage of benthic organisms caused by eutrophication but where the magnitude of change was not specified in the objectives, with the result that the monitoring programme was so loosely designed that insufficient samples were taken. A posteriori analyses of the results may show that the monitoring would take 10 years to detect a 10% change in the faunal composition. You may think that this is an unrealistic and hypothetical example, but our experience shows that far too often results such as this are the norm. We return to the types of monitoring in Chapter 11, but for now let us start with perhaps the simplest case: we wish to survey an area of coastal soft sediment simply to find out what is there (i.e. to map the habitats and prepare for a more detailed quantitative study of the benthic assemblages). Up to the last couple of decades, sampling subtidally below diveable depths was usually done blind. One had to resort to charts, perhaps prepared in the nineteenth century, which have depths and descriptions of sediments made from soundings done with handlines with candlewax in a hollowed-out part of the lead weight that touched sediment particles, enabling the sediment type to be crudely mapped. Since the 1980s huge technological advances have been made in mapping sediments. Two types of instrumentation have been developed: depth sounders of various types and remote-operated vehicles (ROVs). With sounders, accurate maps of the contours of the seabed can be produced and then indications of the hardness and roughness superimposed on the depth and good three-dimensional images produced with modern software. Sophisticated multibeam echosounders have been used to map the whole continental shelves of many countries. Now that the satellite-based differential global positioning system (DGPS) is generally available with an accuracy to a few metres, mapping of subtidal sediments has become much easier and more accurate.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document