Work / Exhibits
NMHM Talking Tactile Brain
Now Open! This 3D printed model shows the human brain in cutaway section, at two times actual size. Visitors may explore the model with their hands. If they touch any part with just one finger, they will hear the name of that element spoken aloud (“amygdala”, “corpus callosum”, “occipital lobe”, etc). Then, if they touch the same part again, they will hear a detailed explanation of the the function of that part of the brain. Tactile diagrams labeled in print and braille add another way to study and learn about the human brain.
Specifications
Python program running on Raspberry Pi computer controls the exhibit.
Touch sensors detect finger touches on the brain model.
Brightly-colored epoxy coating helps to visually indicate each part of the brain.
Visual highlighting and captions appear on a small video screen.