People who are blind or have low vision (BLV) face challenges accessing graphical information. While 3D printed models improve accessibility, their functionality is limited to passive audio labels, which do not foster independent knowledge building.

Interactive 3D printed models (I3Ms) incorporating conversational agents like Siri or Alexa could enable richer interactions, allowing users to talk with printed models of different content found in museums, galleries, and schools.

This research explores the design of I3Ms, focusing on BLV users’ natural interaction preferences. A co-design process informed a prototype I3M supporting touch input, haptic feedback, and conversational interaction. We also investigated embodiment — making I3Ms act and speak in lively, human-like ways — to enhance engagement and motivation. Our insights will guide future I3M designs that afford meaningful and engaging experiences for BLV users.

Selected Papers

• Samuel Reinders, Matthew Butler, Kim Marriott (2025). It Brought the Model to Life": Exploring the Embodiment of Multimodal 13Ms for People who are Blind or have Low Vision. CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems 2025. Best Paper Award.
• Samuel Reinders, Swamy Ananthanarayan, Matthew Butler, Kim Marriott (2023). Designing Conversational Multimodal 3D Printed Models with People who are Blind. ACM Designing Interactive Systems (DIS)