Using ontology and RFID to develop a new Chinese Braille learning platform for blind students

Blind people must often rely on various types of Braille aids for reading. For blind students with little or no Braille-related knowledge, the use of an informational learning platform can effectively relieve the burden currently borne by their teachers or instructor. The OntoBraille@RFID (OBR) platform adopts ontological theory to retrieve Braille knowledge to facilitate learning, and a low-cost RFID for Braille character identification. This system is equipped with a voice device so students can learn independently. OBR is also equipped with administrative functions so parents can monitor the students’ learning progress. In contrast to currently available Braille learning devices, this new system can automatically expand the Braille database. Results from trials suggest that OBR can significantly improve the learning outcome for blind students. ORB has also obtained Chinese patent certification.