Description

The dotcalc is an audio scientific calculator for the visually impaired that aims to be more
affordable and user friendly than currently available devices.

The idea was born from the dissatisfaction of students with current offerings, finding them
expensive and challenging to use. Based on their feedback, the design features large braille
buttons and an audio user interface via the built in speaker or headphone jack. The dotcalc
contains all the functions typically found on a scientific calculator, and required for those that
do maths, science or engineering at high school level and beyond.

By utilising low cost for low volume manufacturing methods and removing the need for a
screen, the target price for the dotcalc aims to be under €200. For those with some
functional vision, or wish to use it alongside someone that does, the dotcalc can be tethered
to a laptop via USB, utilising the screen for displaying large characters.

The plan is to open source both the hardware and software after an initial manufacturing run,
to make it available to as many people as possible.

Presenter

Dom Wilson