Automated production of Braille textbooks

July 18 to July 22, 2022

at the

American Institute of Mathematics, San Jose, California

organized by

Alexei Kolesnikov, Al Maneki, Martha Siegel, Volker Sorge, and Michael Cantino

Original Announcement

This workshop is intended to extend the availability of mathematics textbooks in Braille to students and professionals who are visually challenged. The goal is to produce mathematical text accurately, inexpensively, and in a timely manner by developing a user-friendly software workflow using open-source software to automatically translate mathematical text to Braille ready for embossing. Particular attention will be given to the production of large formulas and tactile versions of graphs and diagrams.

Specific goals for this workshop are:

  1. Accurate translation of both mathematics and literary text into Braille including challenging objects like matrices, tables, and large formulas.

  2. Develop pathways towards automating the production of raised graphics.

  3. Create an easy and accessible workflow for both authors and end users.

  4. Envision a "path to market" for adoption by universities and publishers.

The workshop is appropriate for authors, software developers, accessibility specialists, and members of the publishing industry.

Material from the workshop

A list of participants.

A report on the workshop activities.