European project finds easy way to convert text to Braille

Release Date: Nov 7th, 2006

A new software package called Robobraille, which can convert printed text to alternative media, such as contracted or non-contracted Braille through email is currently in development by six members of a European Project.

Robobraille will enable users to send documents in text, HTML, Word or PDF to the service, which will return the documents in Braille grade 1 or 2 within minutes.

The use of printed communication and information excludes many people with sight loss. The aim of Robobraille is to make information accessible to people that would not otherwise be able to access it, or would need the help of others or expensive equipment to read the information.

Over the next 14 months, this service will be validated in the following participating countries: Italy, Greece, Ireland, UK, Cyprus and Portugal. A running prototype of this service has been in operation in Denmark since August 1, 2004. The current service is capable of translating Danish text to and from contracted Braille in 6- and 8- dot Braille.

Synscenter Refsnæs provide the Robobraille service in Denmark and they are the co-ordinators for this European Funded project – Robobraille.

The NCBI Library and Media Centre Service and NAHVI (National Association for the Housing for the Visually Impaired) will be involved in the validation process in Ireland.