Independently Accessible Tactile Assistive Technology
Tatum1 is a robotic system that translates English into tactile fingerspelling, enabling DeafBlind individuals to accurately and comfortably receive voice and text communications in real-time.
Tatum envisions a world where DeafBlind individuals can access media, explore subjects at their convenience, and interact in their preferred language while maintaining autonomy and control of their experience.
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Tatum1 was developed by a team of mechanical, electrical, hardware, and software engineers, as well as linguists and a DeafBlind team.
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DeafBlind community members advise us about diversity, language variability, and components of the Tatum system.
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We are committed to ensuring that discoveries are ethical and promote the advancement of all. We make sure our products are safe and convenient through comprehensive review and testing.
Meet our friend, Tatum!
Tatum1 has been designed for and with the DeafBlind community, ensuring feedback is carefully incorporated into the design of the device.
With direct support and input from over 150 DeafBlind individuals around the world, Tatum1 is truly the first technology of its kind.
Our clients feedback about the Tatum
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I’m shocked… I want to cry, not because I am sad, but because I am very happy!
- Marianne H.
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Fun! With some practice I could use this every day. I'll learn so much from using this!
- Steffy M
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This is so new, this robot is awesome. It looks just like a human hand. Wow!
- Julia M.
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This robot was so easy to use! My husband and I both understood it so quickly!
- Liz W. & Ronald J.
Safe, Adaptable & Effective.
Accurate and Precise
Features realistic handshapes for natural representation. We integrate feedback to ensure our device is perfected as much as possible.
Safe and Convenient
Ensures flexible movements and safety features for reliable use. We choose fabrics and materials that ensure comfort, in addition to advanced safety features.
Customizable
Utilizes a cloud system for data storage and adjustable speed settings, and input and output settings suited for user preference.
Our Incredible Partners!
Award Highlights
Meet Our Founder: Samantha Johnson
I met a DeafBlind person (now Tatum Crew member, Elaine!) for the first time as an undergraduate at Northeastern University. After meeting her, I was motivated to learn more about living with DeafBlindness. Working with students at the Perkins School for the Blind, as well as adults involved with the DeafBlind Contact Center (DBCC), I learned about the lack of communication options.
When I started my master’s program, the COVID pandemic forced social distancing, causing increased isolation and an intensified shortage of crucial interpreting services. The DBCC and I began working together to make a fingerspelling robotic hand as my master’s thesis.
After I graduated, with overwhelming encouragement from DeafBlind individuals, I founded Tatum Robotics to develop assistive technology to support the DeafBlind community. I am so excited as this student dream becomes a reality, and a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed!
- Samantha
Blog posts
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Breakthrough by Carolyn
Carolyn Sanchez, an alumna of the Perkins ELP program, pushed for a new law in Chile that recognizes deafblindness as a unique disability. After earning the sponsorship of a congressman...
Breakthrough by Carolyn
Carolyn Sanchez, an alumna of the Perkins ELP program, pushed for a new law in Chile that recognizes deafblindness as a unique disability. After earning the sponsorship of a congressman...
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Connected Bus Route Experience
CONNECTED BUS ROUTE EXPERIENCE: BOSTON ON MONDAY AFTERNOON I have some really cool stuff I would like to share with everyone who is reading this and it is regarding Aira...
Connected Bus Route Experience
CONNECTED BUS ROUTE EXPERIENCE: BOSTON ON MONDAY AFTERNOON I have some really cool stuff I would like to share with everyone who is reading this and it is regarding Aira...
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The Importance of Specialized Education
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires that states place deaf children in special schools that best serve their needs. Under this requirement, it is necessary that deaf and hard...
The Importance of Specialized Education
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires that states place deaf children in special schools that best serve their needs. Under this requirement, it is necessary that deaf and hard...
