[blindkid] FW: [Pobc-presidents] More on Tactile Maps

[Carrie Gilmer]

Hi All,

Here is some good info on getting tactile maps.

 

 

 

Carrie Gilmer, President

National Organization of Parents of Blind Children

A Division of the National Federation of the Blind

NFB National Center: 410-659-9314

Home Phone: 763-784-8590

carrie.gilmer at gmail.com

www.nfb.org/nopbc

  _____  

From: pobc-presidents-bounces at nfbnet.org
[mailto:pobc-presidents-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Parents of Blind
Children of New York
Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2008 4:12 AM
To: POBC Presidents List Serve
Subject: [Pobc-presidents] More on Tactile Maps

 

Thanks all,

 

I got great resources from a number of busy helpers. For anyone else who is
interested in this topic here is what I got that's either not already been
posted on the presidents list serve (thanks again!) or elaborates on those
suggestions:

 

Tactile Map Automated Production (TMAP): 
Using GIS Data to Automatically Generate Raised-Line Street Maps: This
project uses free GIS data and off-the-shelf embossing technology to allow
blind people
to download and emboss customized tactile street maps of any location in the
US. http://www.ski.org/Rehab/TMAP/

 

In Touch Graphics:  Custom-designed tactile/low vision maps for the blind
and deafblind

http://www.clickandgomap.com/

 

I have two resources re tactile graphics that might interest you. First of
all, Joshua who works for Smith-Kettlewell in California has a program which
produces neighborhood maps. All you need to give him is your street address.
The maps can be directly embossed on a braille embosser or I guess if you
don't have one of those he can send you a hard copy. Anyway, you can ask for
more information on what features your street map could contain.

Email:

jam at ski.org

TC: I cut out the 2nd reference, which regards tactile pictures.

The Princeton Braillists, affectionately known as the Princeton Map Ladies
to their many fans, have many maps at very reasonable prices. I don't know
if they do special jobs, but for anyone interested in maps, like me, they're
great! Princeton Braillists 28-B Portsmouth St. Whiting NJ 08759
732-350-3708.

or

Tactile mapmaking beta:

From: University of Oregon <

tactmaps at uoregon.edu>

 

Free tactile map making software!

About 18 months ago, we sent out and received responses on a survey
regarding features for tactile navigation maps. Thank you to everyone who
responded!

We have created a symbol set, partially based on those responses. In
addition, we have created tactile map making software and wish to begin Beta
testing. Therefore, we are now soliciting software testers. Please help us
by testing the software, providing input/questions and participating in the
online forum. We will edit the software as needed based on user input.

As mentioned previously, the tactile mapping software, when complete, will
be available as a free download to teachers, parents, or anyone who wants to
use it. This project has been supported by a grant from the National Science
Foundation.

If you are interested in serving as a beta tester of the fully-functioning
software, please visit the beta testing forum at the following site, where
you can download both the software as well as a user guide.
<http://ix.cs.uoregon.edu:8988/jforum> http://ix.cs.uoregon.edu:8988/jforum