TEBDD 2.0: Empowering the Blind through Innovative Braille Literacy

Hello all. I'm Ishaan Iyer, a resident of the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California. I am one among the 10 finalists selected for the 3M Young Scientist Challenge by 3M and Discovery Education. Today i am here to talk to you about my invention!

According to a recent comprehensive report released by the World Health Organization (WHO), 284 million people across the globe currently experience some form of visual impairment. Among them, a staggering 39 million individuals face the dual challenge of blindness or severe visual impairment along with other disabilities. The significance of Braille as one of the primary methods of reading for the blind cannot be overstated.

However, a distressing fact emerges from the data: less than 10 percent of visually impaired individuals possess proficiency in Braille. This alarming statistic can be predominantly attributed to the formidable nature of learning Braille and the arduous process involved in converting regular text into Braille format. These obstacles stand as formidable barriers in expanding Braille literacy among the visually impaired population.

The magnitude of this global issue became evident to me, making it an unmistakable priority. Witnessing the profound impact it has on the lives of individuals compelled me to take decisive action. The urgency to find a viable solution was further reinforced by the sheer scale and pervasive nature of the problem worldwide. That's why I built my device. The Tactile Electronic Braille Display device 2.0 ,or TEBDD for short, can help blind people across the world read and learn Braille and this device will help make their lives easier

Moreover, it is worth noting that 3M scientists, renowned for their dedication and ingenuity, derive motivation from the challenges they encounter and the potential to effect positive change. They harness their expertise and innovative ideas to tackle pressing issues that affect society. Their unwavering commitment to problem-solving and their eagerness to make a difference propel them forward.

By combining solid data from reputable sources, such as the World Health Organization's report, with the personal drive and determination to address this global problem, we can build a more compelling case for the need to take action.