Towards Accessible Audio Labeling of 3D Objects.

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology
• Accessibility Research

Background:

• Visually impaired individuals face challenges in object identification and labeling.
• Existing audio labeling methods often require specialized equipment or object modifications.
• There is a need for independent and accessible object labeling solutions for the visually impaired.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce CamIO, a novel smartphone application for audio labeling of 3D objects.
• To enable visually impaired users to create and assign personalized audio labels to objects.
• To assess the feasibility and usability of CamIO through co-design and user studies.

Main Methods:

• Developed CamIO, a smartphone app utilizing a camera, stylus, and barcode patterns for hotspot identification.
• Conducted co-design sessions with six visually impaired participants to understand object labeling needs.
• Performed a feasibility study with participants demonstrating the CamIO system for audio labeling tasks.

Main Results:

• CamIO enables users to create audio labels for hotspots on rigid objects without special materials.
• The system demonstrated feasibility for independent audio labeling by visually impaired users.
• Co-design insights informed the development of an intuitive and accessible user experience.

Conclusions:

• CamIO offers a practical and independent solution for audio labeling of 3D objects for visually impaired individuals.
• The system's reliance on common technology makes it widely accessible.
• Further development can enhance object recognition and labeling capabilities for broader applications.