This presentation describes a framework of map image analysis and presentation of the semantic information to visually impaired users using alternative modalities (i.e. haptics and audio). The aim of the proposed framework is to provide the visually impaired users with an easy way to use means of accessing conventional 2D maps. The proposed framework utilizes novel algorithms for the segmentation of the map images using morphological filters that are able to provide indexed information on both the street network structure and the positions of the street names in the map. The user can interact with the produced 3D model of the map and examine its properties. The developed framework analyses the map image so as to obtain the enclosed information. While navigating, audio messages are displayed providing information about the current position of the user (e.g. street name).

1. Dr. Dimitrios Tzovaras CERTH/ITI Greece Improved Accessibility in Maps for Visually Impaired Users

13. Connected operators Initial map M Binary image of the street name’s regions is T -1 [M] Dilation of M is δ c (M) Outcome of step 1 is g 0

17. Road name transformation into speech

21. Test case – 2D primary map loading

22. Test case – Road names identification

23. Test case – Road names identification Woodland Dr OCR

24. Test case – Road network structure identification

25. Test case – 3D map model construction

26. Test case – Multimodal map exploration