A Taxonomy for Tactile Symbols: Creating a Useable Database for Tactile Map Designers

Abstract This paper describes a methodology for generating a database of tactile symbols. It outlines the conception, development and refinement of the database into a framework suitable for access and searching by remote users. An example of how the database might work in regard to tactile line symbols is provided. A critical analysis of the database highlights the inherent challenges of constructing a framework for and subsequently managing data of this type in an electronic environment. We provide an overview of the potential benefits of using such a tool, and discuss how an evolving project of this kind might encourage a degree of standard practice in tactile map design.