Visually impaired people (VIP) often face social exclusion. Chess.* is an innovative Chinese chess set that allows blind persons to play chess with others who still have their vision. The user-friendly design is oriented to ergonomic requirements and helps VIP distinguish, recognise and locate chess pieces. Its innovative tactile dots and forms enable VIP to easily learn how to play chess, including those with different language backgrounds. Chess.* sets out to promote an inclusive society, to eliminate discrimination, and to assist VIP in being independent. It also fosters heightened multicultural and social communication among VIP and other people. Chess.* has become the national standard at chess competitions for blind people in China.
Credits
Manufacturer:
HKPolyU (with ENPHO, Kathmandu, Nepal, www.enpho.org), Hong Kong
In-house design:
HKPolyU, Hong Kong
Design:
Public Design Lab, HKPolyU (Prof. Kin Wai Michael Siu, Chi Hang Paul Lo, Frankie Fu, Eric Yeung), Hong Kong