Projects

We are developing and maintaining free and open-source accessibility-related software. For almost over a decade, we have provided accessibility fixes to other projects on the way to creating an accessible operating system named Accessible-Coconut. Among the major projects listed below, five of them were completed as part of Google Summer of Code (GSoC).

Free software free sociEty

Accessible-Coconut(AC)

AC is a community-driven GNU/Linux operating system that is fully accessible for individuals with visual impairments. AC is based on Ubuntu MATE. The goal is to create a free and open-source desktop environment that is accessible without relying on vision.

Sharada-Braille-Writer (SBW)

Sharada-Braille-Writer is a text editor for GNU/Linux that supports braille input. In SBW, simultaneous multiple presses of braille combinations produce corresponding letters. This allows users to input text in more than 40 languages using braille knowledge in a Perkins-like manner. The letters F, D, S, J, K, L represent dots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 of the braille cells, respectively. For example, pressing ‘F’ and ‘S’ together will produce the letter ‘K,’ and so on.

Linux-Intelligent-OCR-Solution(Lios)

Lios is a free and open-source software for converting printed text into digital text using either a scanner or a camera. It can also extract text from scanned images sourced from PDF files, images, folders containing images, or screenshots. The program is designed with total accessibility for visually impaired users.

IBus-Braille

IBus-Braille allows users to type text using the PC keyboard in graphical desktops using braille patterns, similar to the Perkins method. It supports several braille tables through the Liblouis engine and a built-in engine, key customization, user abbreviations, the ability to write direct Braille Unicode, and a Three to Six mode for visually impaired people with one hand. This project was developed as part of two Google Summer of Code projects (2014, 2016) and has been accepted into the Debian repository

Accessibility extensions for TuxMath

“Tux of Math” Command is a math drill game featuring Tux,the Linux  Penguin. Lessons range from simple number typing to addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of positive and negative numbers. We have made TuxMath accessible for the visually impaired. It supports various modes, including playing alone, network games, playing with friends, and an asteroid mode.

Accessible Chess - XBoard

XBoard is a graphical user interface chessboard for chess engines under the X Window System. It is developed and maintained as free software by the GNU project. Through the Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2015 project at Portland State University (PSU),we added additional features to XBoard to make it accessible to visually impaired individuals. With the GTK-3 version, XBoard is now equipped with speech support, allowing you to play using a screen reader like Gnome Orca. This provides information about moves, your current position on the board, possible attacks, and whose turn it is. Movements can now be made using the arrow keys on the keyboard.

Accessibility extension for TuxType

Tux Typing is an educational typing program for children starring Tux, the Linux Penguin. The program includes two video game-style activities for younger players and offers phrases and finger lessons for older students. Through the Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2014 project under the Tux4Kids organization, we made it accessible for visually impaired users and added braille support for practicing six key Perkins Brailler-like inputs.

Online six key(braille) input

This tool can be used with web browsers on any platform, allowing users to input text in a Perkins Brailler-like manner. It enables individuals to produce text from any location using their braille knowledge, without the need to install any software on external devices.

Accessible-Bluff

Accessible-Bluff is a web-based card game that relies on the skill of bluffing, replicating real-world gaming scenarios within the software. The game is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all actions and information are conveyed audibly using a screen reader.

Online Braille Translator

The Online Braille Translator is a web-based tool for converting text into Braille with a focus on accessibility. It offers an intuitive interface, extensive language support, and customizable options. Users can choose Grade 1 or 2 Braille, adjust line length, and use text editing tools. The “Direct Braille Input” feature allows direct editing, and the tool is compatible with screen readers. It uses the “Liblouis” table for accuracy, offers personalization options, and includes shortcut keys for efficiency.

Braille Translator GUI

The Braille Translator GUI is an offline tool for Braille conversion. Users can choose Braille grades, customize line lengths, and access robust text editing. It’s compatible with screen readers, offers personalization, and introduces precision text selection. The software uses the “Liblouis” table for translation and it works on GNU/Linux as well as other operating systems, ensuring broad accessibility

Accessible Snakes and Ladders

“Accessible Snakes and Ladders” is a board game application designed to deliver the timeless enjoyment of Snakes and Ladders while prioritizing accessibility for all players. This application encapsulates the thrill of traditional gaming scenarios, bringing them to life within your computer.

Accessible Maths-Tutor

Accessible Maths-Tutor is an engaging and interactive math tutoring game designed to improve math skills while providing an enjoyable gaming experience. It offers a user-friendly interface with math questions, images, and sound effects. Players receive instant feedback and can customize questions, making it an educational tool for learners of all ages.

Kanmani script for defblind

‘Kanmani’ is a special Braille system designed for Malayalam, created by Sishna Anand and her father, Anand Krishnan, and developed by Zendalona. Sishna, who faces both visual and hearing challenges, embarked on this project with the goal of creating a more accessible Braille system.

This is innovative Braille system could positively impact individuals with dual challenges. Kanmani’s development exemplifies the power of thoughtful design in significantly improving accessibility for a broader audience, making reading and writing more manageable for those with disabilities.