Hands On Search

Hands On Search combines a search engine with 3D printing. Users search for items verbally and, once it’s found, a miniature model of the item is printed. We offered this innovation to those who need a ‘sense of touch’ most – the visually impaired. At our suggestion, Yahoo! released Hands On Search as an open-source application and the company’s enthusiasm even persuaded the Japanese Ministry of Education to provide funds that will allow the 3D data to be converted into official study material.