Reading system
Reading systems , often also called reading devices or reading devices, are used by blind and severely visually impaired people to have printed texts read to them. The documents to be read are scanned in, processed by text recognition software and then played back by the voice output . In this way, in addition to books and magazines, bank statements, invoices and other documents can also be read.
Reading systems are offered as open or closed systems. Closed reading systems contain all components from the scanner to the speech output. They are mainly used in the private sector and are often tailored to the needs of older people.
The use of open reading systems that are installed on a personal computer is common in modern workplaces. Printed texts can not only be read out and saved, they can also be further processed.
Reading systems for different usage situations
Closed systems
For users who do not need a computer for their work, closed reading systems are sufficient. Some devices allow the scanned texts to be saved and managed.
The parts
Closed systems contain common flatbed scanners , e.g. B. from Epson or Canon, on which individual sheets can be placed. In some reading systems, the scanner is not integrated, but is next to it. This makes the exchange easier, but requires more space. So-called OCR software is used to recognize the scanned characters . Although standard products are usually integrated in reading systems, the accuracy of text recognition varies from device to device. Closed systems are mostly equipped with a particularly easy-to-understand, "human" voice output.
service
For many users of closed systems, the ease of use of the device is crucial. Usually a special keyboard with a few keys is integrated, which can be operated in a similar way to a cassette recorder. For users with fine motor problems, large keys are available in special shapes that are easy to distinguish by touch. However, these simplified keyboards are not sufficient to perform more complex tasks, e.g. B. to manage a document archive. Voice output usually accompanies the user through all processes and work steps.
Open systems
Open reading systems are usually used at workplaces. By connecting to the PC, the scanned documents can be saved and further processed with conventional word processing programs. It is controlled via the computer keyboard.
The components
Open systems consist of the components PC, scanner, text recognition software and speech output. If you acquire a coordinated system, the provider ensures the compatibility of the individual components. The components can also be put together individually. Then you should make yourself knowledgeable about which components can be combined.
Text recognition software
The OCR software is responsible for recognizing the scanned characters. The user can choose between standard software and software specially developed for the blind:
- Commercially available software: If a screen reader and speech output are installed on the PC, a commercially available OCR software such as B. FineReader or OmniPage. However, their user interface is not designed to meet the needs of blind users. This complicates the operation.
- Scanner software specially developed for blind users: In addition to text recognition, this software also includes voice output. It not only reads out the scanned text, but also informs the user about the individual work steps during the scanning process. In addition to the comfortable user interface, there is a separate library management system in which the documents can be saved, and often also a separate, simple word processor.