Ultra low cost braille keyboard for use along side screen reading software.
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This is an ultra simple device in terms of building, that functions the same, if not better than devices costing $100+ and along with a touch pad, Raspberry Pi (or equivalent) configured with screen reader software and a speaker, would form and entire computer for a blind person for less than £50. All other components are readily available, and this keyboard is the missing piece.
(old arduino version, was not able to use usb hid mode)
braillekeyboardusb.inoCode for basic numbers and letters, lowercase and caps.ino - 8.05 kB - 09/04/2017 at 10:14 |
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I have uploaded all the source code that moves this from a very niche serial device to a full fledged usb keyboard, compatible with any modern computer.
Building the keyboard couldn't be easier. First layout the keys as follows, using whatever switches you prefer.
[delete] [3] [2] [1] [4] [5] [6] [enter]
[space]
Then connect one pole of each of the switches to ground on the teensy and the other pole of each to the following pins.
deleteKey = 2;
enterKey = 3;
spaceKey = 4;
Key3 = 5;
Key2 = 6;
Key1 = 7;
Key4 = 8;
Key5 = 9;
Key6 = 10;
And that's it.
To configure the keyboard you can use any PC, then the braille keyboard can be used on any usb compatible PC or MAC. Install the arduino ide from arduino.cc , well as teensyduino from www.pjrc.com/teensy/teensyduino.html. Open the source code included on this page, and under the tolls tab select the board type, select USB type "keyboard" and the keyboard type for your region. This code is only compatible with English speaking regions as other countries use different braille standards. Click the right pointing arrow ➡️to compile and upload the firmware to your device.
Once the code is uploaded to the device, the keyboard is plug and play. Just conect the usb lead and you are ready to go :)
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