Haptic Wave: A Cross-Modal Interface for Visually Impaired Audio Producers

We present the Haptic Wave, a device that allows cross-modal mapping of digital audio to the haptic domain, intended for use by audio producers/engineers with visual impairments. We describe a series of participatory design activities adapted to non-sighted users where the act of prototyping facilitates dialog. A series of workshops scoping user needs, and test- ing a technology mock up and lo-fidelity prototype fed into the design of a final high-spec prototype. The Haptic Wave was tested in the laboratory, then deployed in real world set- tings in recording studios and audio production facilities. The cross-modal mapping is kinesthetic and allows the direct ma- nipulation of sound without the translation of an existing vi- sual interface. The research gleans insight into working with users with visual impairments, and transforms perspective to think of them as experts in non-visual interfaces for all users.