Patent Description:
In the United Kingdom and many other countries and jurisdictions within those countries, voting on various issues such as elections, referendums, etc. is carried out at polling centres using standardised ballot papers on which a list of candidates or questions are arranged in a relatively standard layout or format. The format of the ballot paper generally takes the form of a vertical list of the candidates including all relevant information such as political party, etc., with a box provided on one side, generally to the right of each row into which the voter can place a designated mark such as an "X" or a numeral in order to make the appropriate selection such as picking an individual candidate or number of candidates.

While the above format is effective for sighted individuals, there are obviously significant problems for the blind or visually impaired, who may require assistance, but which also conflicts with the general principals and legal rights around voting, in that a voter should be unaccompanied when casting their vote in order to ensure the privacy and legitimacy of the vote.

Various solutions to these issues have been used in the past to varying degrees of success. One such example is the use of so called tactile voting devices or ballot paper templates, which consists of an overlay which is placed on top of the ballot paper and includes braille translations of the underlying rows of the ballot paper, enabling blind or visually impaired individuals to vote independently and in private.

However there are problems with the existing tactile voting devices. Only a relatively small proportion of the blind or visually impaired can read braille, with the remaining proportion thus not being able to use the tactile voting devices. Current devices therefore do not allow blind and partially sighted individuals to vote independently without the ability to read braille; either an official in charge of the polling station or a close family member is required to read out the names of the candidates and the order in which they appear on the ballot paper.

It would therefore be desirable to provide an improved voting aid for the blind or visually impaired.

<CIT> discloses a voting system that provides audible or tactile feedback when voting targets are probed with a wand. <CIT> discloses a voting aid comprising a template with visual and/or tactile identification means for aiding identification of the marking section of the ballot paper.

From a first aspect the invention provides a voting apparatus for receiving a ballot paper having at least one ballot, the apparatus comprising: a voting aid for overlying the ballot paper and comprising a respective ballot marking aid for each ballot of the ballot paper; and an audio system comprising means for providing an audio output comprising information corresponding to each ballot, wherein the audio system comprises a respective user activation device for each voting option, and wherein in response to operation of any one of said user activation devices, said audio system is configured to provide the audio output for a respective one of the voting options.

The audio system, and therefore the apparatus, may comprise audio output means for audibly rendering said audio output, said audio output means preferably comprising headphones, earphones a loudspeaker.

The audio system may comprise audio output means for providing said audio output to an audio rendering device, for example headphones, earphones or a loudspeaker.

In preferred embodiments, said audio system includes means for storing a respective audio file associated with each user activation device, wherein in response to operation of any one of said user activation devices, said audio system is configured to play the associated audio file. The user activation devices are preferably arranged in a linear array and have a spatial arrangement that matches the spatial arrangement of the ballots on the ballot paper. Preferably, each activation device is provided with an indicator of its position in the array, the indicator preferably comprising a corresponding tactile identifier, or numeral and/or a braille representation of the corresponding identifier or numeral.

The user activation devices may be provided on a body of the voting apparatus or on the voting aid. The preferred audio system comprises a respective user activation device for each voting option. The user activation devices are preferably arranged for alignment with a respective voting option and/or with a respective ballot marking aid.

The apparatus may include respective guide means, preferably tactile guide means, for guiding a user between each activation device and the respective voting option and/or ballot marking aid, wherein, optionally, the guide means is provided at least partly on the respective ballot marking aid.

Preferably, the audio system includes means for storing a respective audio file associated with each user activation device, wherein in response to operation of any one of said user activation devices, said audio system is configured to play the associated audio file.

Typically, the user activation devices are arranged in a linear array and have a spatial arrangement that matches the spatial arrangement of the voting options on the ballot paper. Each activation device is preferably provided with or associated with at least one indicator of its position in the array, said at least one indicator preferably comprising a corresponding tactile identifier, and/or numeral and/or a braille representation of the corresponding identifier or numeral. Said at least one indicator is provided on and/or adjacent the respective activation device. Said at least one indicator of each activation device may be arranged for alignment with a respective voting option and/or with a respective ballot marking aid. Said at least one indicator may be provided on the respective ballot marking aid at a location that is adjacent the respective voting option, in use. Said at least one indicator of each ballot marking aid may be arranged for alignment with a respective voting option and/or with a respective user activation device.

Preferably, said voting aid is located, in use, such that each ballot marking aid is aligned with a corresponding user activation device, preferably located adjacent the respective user activation device.

In preferred embodiments, each ballot marking aid includes securing means operable to selectively expose a marking region of the respective voting option, preferably being operable to selectively expose or cover the respective marking region. The securing means may be operable to, preferably in a ballot-exposing state, overlap with and/or overlie the respective user activation device, and wherein, preferably, said securing means is foldable onto the respective user activation device, preferably in said ballot-exposing state. Said securing means may comprise a tab or other structure that is movable between said ballot-exposing state and a ballot-covering state in which it is positioned to cover the respective marking region. The tab or other structure is preferably foldable between the ballot-exposing and ballot-covering states. The securing means may be operable to selectively cover or otherwise secure the respective aperture, window or exposing means, or otherwise to indicate that the respective voting option has been marked.

In preferred embodiments, each ballot marking aid comprises an aperture, window or other means for exposing the marking region of the respective voting option, the apparatus being arranged so that each user activation device is located adjacent the respective aperture, window or exposing means.

The securing means, preferably comprising a tab, may be located adjacent the respective user activation device, or may be located on the opposite side of the respective aperture, window or exposing means from the respective activation device.

Typically, each ballot marking aid comprises means for selectively exposing the marking region of the respective voting option, preferably located along an edge of the voting aid, the apparatus preferably being arranged so that the user activation devices are located adjacent the exposing means. Said selective exposing means comprises a movable tab operable to expose or cover the respective marking region.

Typically, the apparatus comprises a body, the body comprising a portion that is shaped and dimensioned to receive the voting aid and ballot paper.

The apparatus may include alignment means for aligning the voting aid with the activation devices.

In preferred embodiments, the user activation devices overlie the voting aid, each user activation device being aligned with the respective ballot marking aid, and wherein, optionally, the user activation devices are provided on a substrate that overlies the voting aid. Alternatively, the user activation devices may be provided on the voting aid, preferably on the respective ballot marking aid.

In preferred embodiments, each user activation device comprises a button or a switch or other user input device.

The audio output means may comprise an audio output jack, audio output port and/or a wireless transmitter for providing the audio output to the audio rendering device by cable or a wireless connection.

The audio system may include audio input means for enabling audio files to be received by the audio system, the audio input means optionally comprising a hardware interface such as a cable or device port, and/or a memory card slot, and/or a wireless receiver.

In preferred embodiments, said ballot marking aids are arranged in a linear array and have a spatial arrangement that matches the spatial arrangement of the ballots on the ballot paper, each ballot marking aid comprising an aperture, window and/or tab, or other means for exposing a marking region of the respective ballot. Preferably, each ballot marking aid includes an indicator of its position in the array, the indicator preferably comprising a corresponding tactile identifier, or numeral and/or a braille representation of the corresponding identifier or numeral.

In preferred embodiments, said voting aid is located, in use, such that each ballot marking aid is aligned with a corresponding user activation device, preferably located adjacent the respective user activation device.

From another aspect the invention provides a voting apparatus suitable for receiving a ballot paper having at least one ballot and comprising: a voting aid comprising at least one aperture arranged to overlie the at least one ballot of the ballot paper; and means for providing at least one audio signal comprising information relevant to the at least one ballot.

Ideally, the means for providing an audio signal comprises a user operated activation means. Preferably, the means for providing an audio signal comprises an audio output device configured to output said audio signal upon operation of the user operated activation means. Optionally, the voting apparatus comprises a support. Ideally, a ballot paper is received between the support and the voting aid. Preferably, the voting apparatus is configured to receive a ballot paper comprising a plurality of ballots and comprises: a plurality of apertures, each aperture arranged to overlie each respective ballot of the ballot paper. Ideally, a plurality of user operated activation means is provided, each corresponding to a respective ballot of a ballot paper. Preferably, each aperture is alignable with a corresponding user operated activation means. Ideally, the user operated activation means comprises activation identification means. Preferably, the at least one aperture is provided with aperture identification means. Ideally, the aperture identification means matches the activation identification means of a corresponding user operated activation means.

Advantageously, a visually impaired user may associate an audio signal output on operation of a chosen user operated activation means with an aperture having matching identification means to that of said chosen user operated activation means. Ideally, the user operated activation means and/or the audio output means are locatable on the support. Preferably, the voting apparatus further comprises alignment means for aligning a ballot paper and/or the voting aid with respect to the support. Ideally, the alignment means are sized, dimensioned, and positioned to at least align the at least one aperture with a corresponding user operated activation means, and/or to align the at least one aperture with a corresponding at least one ballot. Preferably, attachment means are provided between the voting aid and the support. Ideally, the attachment means are adhesive attachment means.

Preferably, the user operated activation means is a button. Ideally, the audio output means is an audio output jack operable to output the audio signal via a wired connection to headphones or earphones. Alternatively or in addition, the audio output comprises a Bluetooth® output which is operable to output the audio signal to a user via a wireless connection. Ideally, the audio signal comprises information in relation to a candidate, party, voting choice, and/or information in relation to a question on the at least one ballot. Most preferably, the audio signal comprises information in relation to the name of a candidate on the at least one ballot and/or the political party to which said candidate is affiliated.

Preferably, the voting aid comprises securing means to allow the at least one aperture to be secured. Ideally, the voting aid comprises indicating means to indicate the at least one aperture is secured. Optionally, the support is a solid support. Further optionally, the support is a solid, generally planar support. Optionally, the support comprises alignment means for aligning a ballot paper and/or the voting aid.

Optionally, the identification means are visual identification means to allow the at least one aperture to be visually identified. Optionally, the identification means are visual indicia to allow the at least one aperture to be visually identified. Optionally or additionally, the identification means are tactile identification means to allow the at least one aperture to be tactilely identified. Optionally or additionally, the identification means are tactile indicia to allow the at least one aperture to be tactilely identified. Preferably, the identification means are visual and tactile (visio-tactile) identification means to allow the at least one aperture to be both visually and tactilely identified. Optionally, the securing means are physical securing means to allow the at least one aperture to be physically secured. Optionally, the indicating means are tactile indicating means to tactilely indicate that the at least one aperture is secured. Optionally or additionally, the indicating means are audible indicating means to audibly indicate that the at least one aperture is secured. Preferably, the indicating means are audible and tactile (audio-tactile) indicating means to both audibly and tactilely indicate that the at least one aperture is secured. Optionally, the identification means comprise raised dimples or characters. Optionally, the identification means comprise printed indicia. Preferably, the identification means comprise raised dimples or characters having indicia printed thereon. Optionally, the securing means comprise a cover arranged to occlude the at least one aperture. Further optionally, the securing means comprise a cover arranged to reversibly occlude the at least one aperture. Optionally, the securing means are mountable to the voting aid. Further optionally, the securing means are hingedly mountable to the voting aid. Optionally, the cover is mountable to the voting aid. Further optionally, the cover is hingedly mountable to the voting aid. Optionally or additionally, the securing means are mountable adjacent the at least one aperture. Further optionally, the securing means are hingedly mountable adjacent the at least one aperture.

Optionally or additionally, the cover is mountable adjacent the at least one aperture. Further optionally, the cover is hingedly mountable adjacent the at least one aperture. Optionally, the cover is arranged to be displaceable between an open position and a closed position. Optionally, in the open position, the cover does not occlude the at least one aperture. Optionally, in the closed position, the cover occludes the at least one aperture. Optionally, the securing means are arranged to be displaceable between an open position and a closed position. Optionally, in the open position, the securing means do not occlude the at least one aperture. Optionally, in the closed position, the securing means occlude the at least one aperture. Preferably, the securing means are arranged to be displaceable between an open position wherein the securing means do not occlude the at least one aperture and a closed position wherein the securing means occlude the at least one aperture.

Preferably, the cover is arranged to be displaceable between an open position wherein the cover does not occlude the at least one aperture and a closed position wherein the cover occludes the at least one aperture.

Optionally, the indicating means comprise first and second sections arranged such that contact of the first section with the second section provides an audible indication. Further optionally, the indicating means comprise first and second sections arranged such that contact of the first section with the second section provides an audible sound.

Alternatively, the indicating means comprise first and second sections arranged such that separation of the first section from the second section provides an audible indication. Further optionally, the indicating means comprise first and second sections arranged such that separation of the first section from the second section provides an audible sound.

Optionally, the first section is mountable to the second section. Further optionally, the first section is reversibly mountable to the second section. Still further optionally, the first section is engageable with the second section. Still further optionally, the first section is reversibly engageable with the second section.

Optionally, the first section comprises a plurality of hooks. Further optionally or additionally, the second section comprises a plurality of loops. Still further optionally or additionally, the first and second sections together form a hook-and-loop fastening. Preferably, the first and second sections together form a reversible hook-and-loop fastening. Optionally, the first section comprises a head. Further optionally or additionally, the second section comprises a shank arranged to receive the head of the first section. Still further optionally or additionally, the second section comprises a shank arranged to reversibly receive the head of the first section. Still further optionally or additionally, the first and second sections together form a snap fastening. Preferably, the first and second sections together form a reversible snap fastening. Optionally, the alignment means comprise at least one mating element. Further optionally, the alignment means comprise at least two mating elements. Still further optionally, the alignment means comprise two mating elements. Optionally, the alignment means comprise at least one mating element arranged to correspond with a respective mating element of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid. Further optionally, the alignment means comprise at least two mating elements, each arranged to correspond with a respective mating element of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid. Still further optionally, the alignment means comprise two mating elements, each arranged to correspond with a respective mating element of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid.

Optionally, the alignment means comprise at least one protrusion arranged to correspond with a respective aperture of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid. Further optionally, the alignment means comprise at least two protrusions, each arranged to correspond with a respective aperture of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid. Still further optionally, the alignment means comprise two protrusions, each arranged to correspond with a respective aperture of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid.

Optionally, the alignment means comprise a pair of protrusions, each arranged to correspond with a respective pair of apertures of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid.

Optionally, the pair of protrusions is arranged to be received within the respective pair of apertures of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid. Further optionally, the pair of protrusions is arranged to be releasably received within the respective pair of apertures of the ballot paper and/or of the voting aid.

Optionally or additionally, the pair of apertures of the ballot paper is arranged to receive the respective pair of protrusions and/or of the device. Optionally or additionally, the pair of apertures of the ballot paper is arranged to releasably receive the respective pair of protrusions and/or of the device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of voting, the method comprising the steps of: providing a voting apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention; overlying the at least one ballot with the at least one aperture; operating a user operated activation means to cause an audio output device to output an audio signal comprising information relevant to the at least one ballot and overlying aperture; marking the at least one ballot based on information provided in said audio signal.

According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of facilitating a voting process comprising the steps of finalising a ballot paper, creating an audio file containing information representative of said ballot paper, securely transferring said audio file to a polling station, receiving said audio file at said polling station, updating one or more voting apparatus according to the first aspect with said audio file, and attaching a printed copy of the finalised ballot paper to each of the one or more voting apparatus.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a system for implementing a voting management process, the system comprising a presiding officer portal, an administrator dashboard, a storage device, a speech synthesis function, an internet of things function, at least one compute function to operably connect the speech synthesis function, storage device, and internet of things function, and one or more voting apparatus according to the first aspect operably connectable to the system via the internet of things function.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a voting aid for use with the voting apparatus of the first aspect, the voting aid comprising at least one aperture arranged to overlie at least one ballot of a ballot paper.

Other preferred features are recited in the dependent claims.

Embodiments of the invention are now described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals are used to denote like parts and in which:.

The invention will now be described with reference to exemplary voting apparatus. It will be understood that the exemplary voting apparatus are shown to assist in an understanding of the invention and are not to be construed limiting to the invention. Furthermore, elements or components that are described with reference to any one embodiment may be interchanged with those of other embodiments or other equivalent elements without departing from the spirit of the invention.

<FIG> show a first embodiment of a voting apparatus <NUM> which is configured to removably receive a ballot paper (not shown in <FIG>) having at least one ballot. The voting apparatus <NUM> comprises a voting aid <NUM> comprising at least one aperture <NUM>, or other exposure means, arranged to overlie the at least one ballot of the ballot paper (one aperture per ballot). In the present disclosure, the word "ballot" is intended to mean a markable voting option provided on the ballot paper which may be selected by a voter by marking a corresponding marking region of the respective ballot. For example, each ballot may comprise a candidate's name (e.g. in the case of an election) or other votable choice (e.g. in the case of a referendum). The ballot paper typically has a plurality of ballots, e.g. a list of electable candidates or a list of votable options, each being associated with a respective marking region that a voter can mark to indicate his or her choice.

Preferred voting aids comprise a structure comprising a plurality of ballot marking aids, preferably arranged in a column, i.e. a one dimensional linear array, in a vertical or top-to-bottom direction of the voting aid. The ballot marking aids are spatially arranged to match the spatial arrangement of ballots on a ballot paper such that, when the voting aid is overlaid on the ballot paper, a respective ballot marking aid overlies a respective ballot, or markable voting option, on the ballot paper. Each ballot marking aid includes, or is configurable to include, an aperture, window or other exposure means that is in register with the respective marking region of the respective ballot and which exposes the respective marking region to allow a user to mark the respective ballot, i.e. to select the respective voting option by marking it. In preferred embodiments, each marking aid carries or otherwise includes an indicator (preferably a corresponding numeral and/or a braille representation of the corresponding numeral or other tactile indicator), or other identification means, of its position in the array, from first to last in sequence, preferably whereby the topmost marking aid is denoted as first and the bottommost marking aid is denoted as last.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, each ballot marking aid of the voting aid <NUM> comprises an aperture <NUM>, or window, that overlies a corresponding ballot, or markable voting option, of the ballot paper when the voting aid <NUM> is placed on top of the ballot paper. In particular, each aperture <NUM> is in register with the marking region of the respective ballot. The apertures <NUM> permit an elector (not shown) to mark the ballot paper through the apertures <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> are preferably spatially arranged to match a standardised ballot paper. The apertures <NUM> are typically arranged in a one dimensional linear array that is oriented in a vertical, or top-to-bottom, direction of the voting aid. This linear arrangement matches the sequential vertical linear arrangement of the ballots on a typical ballot paper, for example a ballot paper typically used for UK or Irish voting purposes. It should be understood that the apparatus may be adapted for use with ballot papers having different formats/layouts.

The preferred voting aid <NUM> comprises a respective securing element <NUM> for securing the respective aperture <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the securing elements <NUM> take the form of tabs <NUM> which are foldable, rotatable or otherwise movable between an open configuration in which the aperture <NUM> is uncovered or exposed, and a closed configuration in which the respective aperture <NUM> is covered. When the aperture, or window, is covered it is secured at least in the sense that the respective ballot, or markable voting option, cannot inadvertently be marked. Other means for selectably exposing the ballot, e.g. any suitable foldable, slidable, hinged or otherwise movable structures, may be used instead of tabs. In the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, all of the tabs <NUM> are shown in the open configuration except for tab 16A in <FIG> which is shown in the closed configuration. The tabs <NUM> permit the elector to cover each aperture <NUM> individually after the respective underlying ballot is marked. This permits an elector with a visual impairment to mark a ballot paper having multiple ballots, and by moving each tab <NUM> to the closed configuration as ballots are marked, the elector may easily identify ballots which have been already marked. Alternative securing means are discussed herein in relation to different embodiments, however it should be understood that the securing means of one embodiment would be equally applicable to other embodiments. The term ballot paper, when used herein, refers to an entire voting ballot paper which may contain multiple candidate names, questions to be answered, or otherwise provide voting options thereon. Reference to a ballot refers to a single candidate name, question to be answered, or voting option as presented on a ballot paper.

Conveniently, each tab <NUM> carries the respective position indicator (a numeral in the illustrated example), or other identification means, for the respective marking aid, or row, of the voting aid.

The voting apparatus <NUM> includes an audio system for rendering ballot information audibly to the user. The ballot information may for example any relevant information identifying and/or relating to the respective voting option, e.g. the respective candidate's name, and optionally their political party. <FIG> shows, generally indicated as <NUM>, an embodiment of the audio system. The audio system <NUM> comprises user activation means and audio output means. The audio output means preferably comprises any one or more of a loudspeaker <NUM>, an audio jack <NUM> (or other audio port, e.g. a USB port) and/or a wireless transmitter <NUM>, and may optionally comprise headphones or earphones (not shown) connected to the jack/port <NUM> or in wireless communication with the transmitter <NUM>. In use, the loudspeaker <NUM> renders an audio signal <NUM> (<FIG>) comprising the relevant ballot information in the form of speech (recorded speech or synthesised speech as is convenient). Alternatively, or in addition, the audio jack/port <NUM> enables connection of headphones or earphones (not shown) or other audio rendering device to the voting apparatus to allow the relevant ballot information to be rendered audibly by the headphones/audio rendering device. Alternatively or in addition, the wireless transmitter <NUM>, for example comprising a Bluetooth (trade mark) transmitter, enables wireless transmission of signals comprising the relevant ballot information to compatible wireless headphones or other audio rendering device for rendering thereby.

The activation means comprises a plurality of user activation devices <NUM>. Each user activation device <NUM> may for example comprise a push button, a touch-sensitive button (e.g. a region of a touch-sensitive screen), or other user input device (typically comprising a switch device), preferably a touch-operated user input device (more preferably an input device that is operable by touch of a user's finger), as is convenient. A respective activation device <NUM> is provided for each ballot, or voting option. Preferably, the activation devices <NUM> are spatially arranged to match the spatial arrangement of the ballot marking aids, including the apertures <NUM> in the embodiment of <FIG>, and therefore also the spatial arrangement of the ballots on the ballot paper. In preferred embodiments, the activation devices <NUM> are arranged in a one dimensional linear array that is oriented in a vertical, or top-to-bottom, direction of the apparatus <NUM>. Optionally, each activation device <NUM> is associated with identification means in the preferred form of an indicator (preferably a corresponding numeral and/or a braille representation of the corresponding numeral or other tactile indicator (e.g. a formation(s) that is raised or embossed) of its position in the array, from first to last in sequence, preferably whereby the topmost marking aid is denoted as first and the bottommost marking aid is denoted as last. The respective position indicator may be provided on the activation device <NUM> itself and/or on any convenient part of the apparatus <NUM> adjacent the respective device <NUM>.

The preferred audio system <NUM> includes an electronic storage device <NUM> for storing audio files. Any conventional electronic memory that allows audio files to be stored and retrieved can be used for this purpose. The preferred audio system <NUM> includes audio input means for enabling audio files to be received by the system <NUM>. The audio input means may take any conventional form, for example a hardware interface such as a cable or device port <NUM> and/or a memory card slot <NUM>, and/or a wireless receiver (e.g. a Bluetooth (trade mark) receiver). Optionally, an RF transceiver may be provided for performing both wireless transmission and reception as required.

The audio system <NUM> includes a controller <NUM> for controlling the operation of the audio system <NUM> as described herein. The controller <NUM> may take any conventional form, for example comprising a suitably programmed microprocessor, microcontroller or integrated circuit, and any ancillary drivers, interfaces or circuitry that may be required and as would be apparent to a skilled person.

The voting apparatus <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> in which the activation devices <NUM> are incorporated. The other components of the audio system <NUM> may be incorporated in, supported by or housed by the body <NUM> as is convenient, typically including an electric power supply such as one or more batteries. Optionally, the body <NUM> includes a portion <NUM>, preferably including a flat surface, that is shaped and dimensioned to receive a ballot paper, and preferably the voting aid <NUM> which is locatable on top of the ballot paper.

In use, the audio system <NUM> receives audio file(s) via the audio input means and stores the file(s) on the storage device <NUM>. In preferred embodiments a respective audio file is provided for each ballot, or voting option, on the ballot paper for a given election or other contest, e.g. referendum. Alternatively, a single audio file may be provided containing respective audio data for each ballot, or voting option,, in which case it is preferred that the audio system <NUM> is configured to store the respective audio data as a respective audio file. In any event, the audio system <NUM> receives and stores respective audio data for each ballot, or voting option,. Each stored audio file comprises data for audibly rendering information (e.g. candidate name or other selectable choice), in the form of speech, corresponding to the respective ballot, or voting option, via any one or more of the available audio outputs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In preferred embodiments, the audio files comprise speech data, e.g. recorded human speech or synthesised speech. In alternative embodiments, the audio system <NUM> may include a conventional speech synthesis module and may be configured to synthesise speech data from data received via the input means.

Each stored audio file is uniquely associated with a respective activation device <NUM>. This may be achieved in any suitable manner. Typically, each received audio input file includes data indicating which ballot, or voting option, it is associated with. The audio system <NUM> associates a unique identifier with each activation device <NUM>, the unique identifier indicating the position of the activation device <NUM> in the array of devices <NUM>. The order of the activation devices <NUM> in the array corresponds to the order of ballots on the ballot paper and so the audio system <NUM> matches each audio file to a corresponding activation device <NUM>.

In response to operation of any one of the activation devices <NUM>, the audio system <NUM> is configured to play the corresponding audio file, thereby rendering to the user, or elector, via the audio output means an audible rendition of the corresponding ballot information in the form of speech (recorded or synthesised). Therefore, an elector with a visual impairment is provided with audio information corresponding to a selected ballot, or voting option, and may thus mark the ballot, or voting option, based on the audio information without assistance.

In preferred embodiments, the controller <NUM> receives a signal in response to operation of the activation device <NUM> in response to which the controller <NUM> causes the corresponding audio file to be played. The controller <NUM> retrieves the relevant audio file from the storage device <NUM> and causes it to be rendered by the loudspeaker <NUM> and/or sent to the jack/port <NUM> and/or to be transmitted wirelessly, as applicable. More generally, it will be understood that there are a variety of suitable conventional ways in which playback of an audio file corresponding to an operated activation device <NUM> can be implemented.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the activation devices <NUM> are buttons, and each button <NUM>, when activated, causes a respective candidate name (and/or other information as applicable) to be audibly rendered to the user as the audio file associated with the pressed button <NUM> is played. Therefore, an elector with a visual impairment may be presented with an audio recitation of the candidate names, and can relate a particular name to a particular button <NUM>.

In preferred embodiments, the support portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> has a flat surface for receiving the voting aid <NUM>. In use, a ballot paper is located between the upper surface of support <NUM> and the voting aid <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the support portion <NUM> may be omitted in which case the ballot paper overlaid with the voting aid <NUM> may be located side-by-side with the body <NUM>. In either case, the body <NUM> and voting aid <NUM> are aligned with each other so that each marking aid of the voting aid <NUM> is aligned with, preferably adjacent to, a respective one of the activation devices <NUM>. The preferred arrangement is such that the first marking aid is aligned with the first activation device <NUM>, the second marking aid is aligned with the second activation device <NUM> and so on. Preferably the apparatus <NUM> includes alignment means to facilitate correct alignment of the activation devices <NUM> and the marking aids. In the embodiment of <FIG>, aligning the activation devices <NUM> with the marking aids involves aligning the buttons <NUM> with the apertures <NUM>. Conveniently, the alignment means is configured to align the voting aid <NUM> with the body <NUM>.

Alignment of the voting aid <NUM> with the buttons <NUM> may be achieved in any convenient manner. For example, the alignment means may comprise correspondingly located alignment structures <NUM>, 20a (e.g. a hole or recess and corresponding locating pin, or other corresponding formations, e.g. corresponding male and female components) formed on the voting aid <NUM> and the body <NUM> such that mating or engagement of the alignment structures <NUM>, 20a ensures the required alignment.

Optionally, fastening means (e.g. adhesive or hoop & loop fasters) may be provided for holding the voting aid <NUM> in the desired location with respect to the activation devices <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, as is best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, once the voting aid <NUM> is in place, the apertures <NUM> of the voting aid <NUM> are not only aligned with the respective button <NUM>, but are advantageously also adjacent or proximal the respective button such that a elector can easily ascertain, by touch, which aperture <NUM> corresponds to which button <NUM>. Alternatively, or in addition, each marking aid of the voting aid <NUM> may include a tactile guide (e.g. a ridge or other structure(s) or guide means, preferably being tactile, e.g. raised or embossed) which, when the voting aid <NUM> is aligned with the activation devices <NUM>, extends between the respective activation device <NUM> and window/aperture <NUM> (or other voting option exposure means) and so allows the elector, by touch e.g. using a finger, to trace a path from the activation device to the respective window/aperture <NUM>.

Optionally, the voting aid <NUM> comprises a respective secondary aperture <NUM> for each activation device <NUM>. The secondary apertures <NUM> be arranged in parallel with the apertures <NUM>. The secondary apertures <NUM> are spatially arranged to match the spatial arrangement of the activations devices <NUM>, and therefore preferably also the spatial arrangement of the apertures <NUM>. In preferred embodiments therefore, the secondary apertures <NUM> are arranged in a one dimensional linear array that is oriented in a vertical, or top-to-bottom, direction of the apparatus <NUM>. The voting aid <NUM> is placed on the apparatus <NUM> such that each secondary aperture <NUM> overlays and is in register with a respective one of the activation devices <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> exposes the respective activation device <NUM> so that it can be operated through the aperture <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> are preferably located on the opposite side of the apertures <NUM> to the tabs <NUM>. The array of apertures <NUM> facilitates installation, alignment and use of the voting aid <NUM>.

In use, when the elector operates an activation device <NUM> and hears a choice that he wishes to vote for, he marks the corresponding ballot on the ballot paper through the window <NUM> in the voting aid <NUM> that is aligned with the operated device <NUM>. This is facilitated in the embodiment of <FIG> by the respective window/aperture <NUM> being immediately adjacent the respective device <NUM>. Once the ballot paper is marked, the respective tab <NUM>, which is also advantageously located beside the aperture <NUM>, can be folded or otherwise closed to secure the ballot.

<FIG> show a second embodiment of the apparatus <NUM> which is similar to the apparatus <NUM> and in respect of which like numerals are used to denote line parts and the same or similar description applies, unless otherwise indicated, as would be apparent to a skilled person. In this embodiment, the voting aid <NUM> does not overlie the activation devices <NUM>. Instead, the voting aid <NUM> is located adjacent the array of activation devices <NUM>. The voting aid <NUM> of the second embodiment is arranged to provide the apertures, or windows, distal the activation devices <NUM> rather than proximal the activation devices <NUM> as is the case in the first embodiment. The windows <NUM> need not be enclosed on four sides such as the apertures as described in relation to the first embodiment. Instead, the windows <NUM> may be formed in any manner by the shape and/or dimensions of the voting aid <NUM> in order to expose the respective marking region of the ballots when a ballot paper <NUM> is beneath the voting aid. For example, the windows <NUM> may be formed on, and open to, an edge of the voting aid <NUM> such that only three sides, or fewer, of the window <NUM> are enclosed, and may for example be formed by one or more cut out potion at the edge the voting aid, or by selecting the width of the voting aid such that the marking regions are exposed along its edge. The windows <NUM> may be provided by forming one elongate recess or cut-out along an edge of the voting aid, said elongate window being open to the said edge. Preferably, each ballot marking aid of the voting aid includes a tab <NUM> at the end distal the devices <NUM>. Each securing element, in the preferred form of tab <NUM>, covers the respective marking region of the respective ballot when the voting aid <NUM> is overlaid on the ballot paper <NUM> and may be lifted or folded to expose the respective marking region.

Each marking aid of the voting aid <NUM>, and each activation device <NUM>, preferably have corresponding position indicator(s) or other identification means (as described above), preferably tactile indicators, to allow each marking aid to be correlated with the respective activation device. Preferably, the position indicator <NUM> of the voting aid is located adjacent the marking region of the respective ballot, e.g. adjacent the respective window <NUM>, tab <NUM> or other exposure means, and/or on the respective tab <NUM>. The position indicator 22a of each activation device <NUM> may be provided on the activation device <NUM> and/or on the body <NUM> adjacent the activation device <NUM>.

As can be seen in <FIG>, in the preferred embodiment the indicators <NUM>, 22a comprise braille identifications. The respective first and second indicators <NUM>, 22a are preferably identical and may represent a number in braille. An elector with a visual impairment may locate the indicator 22a corresponding to a button <NUM>, activate the identified button <NUM>, and after hearing an audio output locate the corresponding window <NUM> by means of the corresponding indicator <NUM>, and mark the underlying ballot (after lifting or folding back the respective tab <NUM> in this example). It should be understood that the identification features <NUM>, 22a could take any form which would aid a visually impaired individual to identify a match between a button <NUM> and a corresponding tab16/window <NUM>, for example raised tactile roman numerals, tactile and distinct shapes etc. Alternatively or in addition tactile guides may be provided as described above.

The securing elements <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG> are arranged such that, prior to voting/marking an underlying ballot paper, the securing elements cover the marking region of the respective ballot. An elector, after identifying the relevant ballot as outlined above, may fold the securing element <NUM> towards the upper surface <NUM> of the voting aid to reveal the ballot thereunder such that it may be marked. The securing element <NUM> may then be left in the folded state to indicate that the ballot thereunder has been marked. The securing elements <NUM> conveniently take the form of a tab <NUM> associated with the respective window <NUM>, as described in relation to the first embodiment.

The voting aid <NUM> may be attachable to the body <NUM> via an adhesive attachment element <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>). Preferably, the adhesive attachment element is provided on a rear surface <NUM> of the voting aid <NUM>, said rear surface <NUM> being the surface received by the upper surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> when in use. As is best viewed in <FIG>, the adhesive attachment element preferably comprises a peel and stick arrangement comprising an adhesive strip <NUM> covered by a protective non-adhesive covering <NUM>. To attach the voting aid <NUM> to the support, the protective covering <NUM> is removed to expose the adhesive strip <NUM> and the adhesive strip is then placed on a surface of the body <NUM> to provide an adhesive attachment between the body <NUM> and the rear surface <NUM> of the voting aid <NUM>.

Alignment features may be provided to guide alignment of the voting aid <NUM> and/or ballot paper relative to each other and to the body <NUM>. The body <NUM> may also comprise an adhesion portion <NUM> to which the adhesive strip <NUM> may adhere. The adhesion portion may itself be adhesive, or may simply provide a suitable surface to which the adhesive strip may adhere. The adhesion portion is ideally located parallel to a longitudinal edge of the body <NUM> and proximal the side of the body <NUM> comprising the buttons <NUM>. As can be seen in <FIG>, a removal tab <NUM> is provided to permit the voting aid <NUM> to be removed from the body <NUM> by pulling on the removal tab <NUM> such that the voting aid <NUM> is peeled from the body <NUM>. Alignment features may be those as described for the first embodiment or the hereinafter described third embodiment, or may be ridges/ledges formed on the body <NUM> against which the ballot paper and/or voting aid <NUM> may abut, visual alignment features, or any other such alignment features which would be known to the person skilled in the art. The ballot paper receiving portion <NUM> of the body <NUM>, if present, may comprise a non-slip surface such that the ballot paper and/or the voting aid are encouraged to remain in place thereon.

The apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, may comprise a power source such as a battery. The battery is preferably a rechargeable battery. In use, an elector presses a button <NUM> and is presented with corresponding ballot information in an audio format, the information being related to the ballot, or voting option, which underlies the marking aid aligned with the pressed button <NUM>. The elector may then proceed to locate the window <NUM> or tab <NUM> which corresponds to the pressed button <NUM>, either due to its positioning relative to the button <NUM>, and/or by using matching identification features provided in relation to the button <NUM> and the associated window or tab. Once the relevant window or tab is identified, the elector may then mark the underlying ballot. The elector may continue this process for other items on the ballot paper, each which will have a different corresponding and aligned window <NUM> and button <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a typical process from finalisation of a ballot to voting by an elector. After the contents of the ballot paper are finalised at step <NUM>, one or more audio files are created to represent the ballot paper at step <NUM>. It should be understood that the term audio file could also refer to a collection of audio files. This could for example be a file containing each of the candidate names as listed on a ballot paper. The audio file could be created by recording an audio source such as a person reading said names, could be generated automatically via speech synthesis from an electronic or paper version of the ballot paper, or by any other means as would be known to the skilled person. The audio file may also contain further information or be accompanied by information relating to portions of which should be associated with which button of the voting apparatus. At step <NUM>, the audio file is securely transferred to a polling station and received at said polling station at step <NUM>. The transfer and reception can be physically accomplished by the sending of a physical memory storage device, such as an SD Card as shown in <FIG> comprising the audio files, or could be done across a telecommunication network, e.g. the internet. At stage <NUM>, the voting apparatus is updated with the audio file. This may be done by physically connecting a memory storage device to the voting apparatus, or could be done automatically as the voting device receives the audio files across a communication network/the internet. As described above, the audio file may contain or be accompanied by information relating to which portions of the audio file relate to which button of the voting apparatus. The voting apparatus may also comprise software stored on a memory element, and when said software is run by a processor of the voting apparatus, an incoming audio file, or portion of an incoming audio file, is associated with a particular button based upon a marker which accompanies said audio file or portion thereof. Alternatively, the ordering of the audio files, or portions thereof, dictates the association with the correct corresponding buttons <NUM>. Once the voting apparatus is updated with the audio file, the ballot paper is attached to the voting apparatus and the elector may use the apparatus to vote/mark the ballot paper.

<FIG> shows one example of a system <NUM> which may be utilised to implementing the process of <FIG>. The system <NUM> provides a presiding officer portal <NUM> which may be used by a presiding officer to input and confirm polling data, approve the subsequent speech synthesis, and access required support. Also provided is an administrator dashboard <NUM> which may be utilised by an administrator to, for example, create and manage polls, generally monitor the system, provide user support, or contact users. The presiding officer portal <NUM> and Administrator dashboard may be accessed and managed via a web based system <NUM>. Storage <NUM> is provided to store all data and information required by the system. Preferably, the storage <NUM> is secure managed cloud storage which comprises the advantages of being readily available, secure, durable, and scalable. The system further comprises a speech synthesis function <NUM> which accurately converts text to human like synthesized speech. An internet of things (IoT) function is provided such that suitable connected voting apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> may be managed and updated by the system <NUM>. Compute functions <NUM> act to operably integrate elements of the system such as the speech synthesis function, storage, and internet of things function <NUM>. Preferably, the storage <NUM>, compute functions <NUM>, speech synthesis function <NUM> and Internet of Things function <NUM> are all implemented in a cloud based computing platform/service <NUM>. This is just one example of a system that may be used to manage and update the voting apparatus, however it should be understood that implementation of the system could be accomplished in a variety of ways within the knowledge of the skilled person. It should also be understood that the aforementioned functions may be implemented on modules of the system.

<FIG> illustrate a third embodiment of a voting aid <NUM> that is suitable for use with voting apparatus embodying the invention. The voting aid <NUM> as described in relation to <FIG> may be utilised with the apparatus <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and second embodiments and is interchangeable with the other voting aids as herein described. The voting aid <NUM> is configured to receive a ballot paper <NUM> comprising at least one ballot, or voting option, <NUM>. The voting aid <NUM> comprises at least one aperture <NUM>. The at least one aperture <NUM> is arranged to overlie the at least one ballot <NUM> of the ballot paper <NUM>. The voting aid <NUM> also comprises respective identification means <NUM>, e.g. an indicator as described above in relation to the other embodiments) to allow the respective window or aperture <NUM> to be identified; securing means <NUM> to allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be secured; and optionally indicating means 124a, 124b to indicate the at least one aperture <NUM> is secured.

Typically, the ballot paper <NUM> comprises a plurality of ballots, or voting options <NUM>. The plurality of ballots <NUM> can be arranged sequentially on the ballot paper <NUM>, and normally the plurality of ballots <NUM> is arranged sequentially in a linear arrangement on the ballot paper <NUM>. In such a case, the voting aid <NUM> comprises a plurality of apertures <NUM>. Each aperture <NUM> is arranged to overlie each respective ballot <NUM> of the ballot paper <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the plurality of apertures <NUM> is arranged sequentially in a linear arrangement on the voting aid <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the identification means <NUM> are visual identification means to allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be visually identified. For example, the identification means <NUM> can be visual indicia that allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be visually identified. In such an embodiment, the identification means <NUM> can be printed indicia applied to the (surface of the) voting aid <NUM>. Preferably, the printed indicia circumscribe the at least one aperture <NUM>. The identification means <NUM> can optionally or additionally comprise any indicia capable of identifying an aperture <NUM>, and preferably capable of identifying an aperture <NUM> from another aperture <NUM>'. In a preferred embodiment, the indicia are Roman numerals, preferably sequential roman numerals. The indicia can optionally or additionally be Braille numerical characters, preferably sequential Braille numerical characters or Braille numerical characters corresponding to the Roman numeral indicia or other tactile indicator.

The identification means <NUM> are preferably tactile identification means to allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be tactilely identified. For example, the identification means <NUM> can be tactile indicia to allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be tactilely identified. In such an embodiment, the identification means <NUM> can be raised dimples embossed from the (surface of the) voting aid <NUM>. Preferably, the raised dimples circumscribe the at least one aperture <NUM>. In a preferred embodiment, the raised dimples are arranged to define Roman numerals, preferably sequential roman numerals. The raised dimples can optionally or additionally be arranged to define Braille numerical characters, preferably sequential Braille numerical characters or Braille numerical characters corresponding to the Roman numerals.

In a preferred embodiment, the identification means <NUM> are visual and tactile (visio-tactile) identification means to allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be both visually and tactilely identified. In such an embodiment, the at least one aperture <NUM> can be simultaneously visually and tactilely identified, thereby increasing the accuracy of identification. Preferably, the identification means <NUM> are raised dimples embossed from the (surface of the) voting aid <NUM> and having printed indicia applied to the raised dimples.

The securing means <NUM> can be physical securing means to allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be physically secured. In an embodiment, the securing means <NUM> comprise a tab or cover arranged to occlude the at least one aperture <NUM>. Preferably, the securing means <NUM> comprise a cover arranged to reversibly occlude the at least one aperture <NUM>, to allow the at least one aperture <NUM> to be covered once a ballot is marked. The securing means <NUM> can be mountable to the voting aid <NUM> and, in a preferred embodiment, the securing means <NUM> are hingedly mountable to the voting aid <NUM>, or foldable. In a specific embodiment, a cover is hingedly mountable to the voting aid <NUM>. However, any arrangement or mounting that allows the securing means <NUM> to reversibly occlude the at least one aperture <NUM> can be used. For example, the securing means <NUM> can be slidably mountable to the voting aid <NUM>.

The securing means <NUM>, such as the cover, are preferably mountable adjacent the at least one aperture <NUM> to allow the securing means <NUM> to easily occlude the at least one aperture <NUM>. The securing means <NUM>, for example the cover, can be hingedly mountable adjacent the at least one aperture <NUM>.

In an embodiment, to provide reversible occlusion of the at least one aperture <NUM>, the securing means <NUM>, for example the cover, are arranged to be displaceable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the securing means <NUM> do not occlude the at least one aperture, such that the elector has access to the at least one ballot <NUM> on the ballot paper <NUM> beneath the voting aid <NUM>, and so can mark a choice of vote accordingly. In the closed position, the securing means <NUM> occlude the at least one aperture <NUM>, thereby providing security to the elector that a ballot <NUM> has been marked. Once the securing means <NUM> are in the closed position, the elector cannot access the at least one aperture <NUM> and so cannot mark the ballot <NUM>.

The indicating means 124a, 124b may be tactile indicating means to tactilely indicate that the at least one aperture <NUM> is secured. The indicating means 124a, 124b can optionally or additionally be audible indicating means to audibly indicate that the at least one aperture <NUM> is secured. In a preferred embodiment, the indicating means 124a, 124b are audible and tactile (audio-tactile) indicating means to both audibly and tactilely indicate that the at least one aperture <NUM> is secured.

The indicating means can 124a, 124b comprise first 124a and second 124b sections arranged such that contact of the first section 124a with the second section 124b provides an audible indication, such as an audible sound. The first 124a and second sections 124b can be formed from a material that generates an audible sound when brought in contact with the same or a different material. For example, the first 124a and second sections 124b could be formed from a metal material that generates an audible "ding" sound when the first 124a and second sections 124b are brought in contact. In an alternative embodiment, the first 124a and second sections 124b form part of an electrical circuit, wherein the electrical circuit comprises a source of power, such as a battery cell, and a sound generator that generates an audible sound when the first 124a and second sections 124b are brought in contact and so complete the electrical circuit. In a similar embodiment, the first 124a and second sections 124b form part of an electrical circuit, wherein the electrical circuit comprises a source of power, such as a battery cell, and a light generator, such as a light emitting diode (LED), that generates a visual cue when the first 124a and second sections 124b are brought in contact and so complete the electrical circuit. Both the sound generator and the light generator can be arranged in the same electrical circuit to provide audio-visual indicating means.

In a preferred embodiment, the indicating means 124a, 124b comprise first 124a and second 124b sections arranged such that separation of the first section 124a from the second section 124b provides an audible indication, such as an audible sound. The above-mentioned electrical circuit comprising the sound generator and/or the light generator can be arranged to provide audio-visual indicating means, wherein the light and/or sound generators are arranged to generate a visual and/or audible cue when the first 124a and second sections 124b are separated from being in contact and so switching the electrical circuit.

The first section 124a can be mountable to the second section 124b, and preferably the first section 124a is reversibly mountable to the second section 124b. In certain embodiments, the first section 124a is engageable with the second section 124b, and preferably the first section 124a is reversibly engageable with the second section 124b.

In a preferred embodiment as shown in the drawings, the first section 124a comprises a plurality of hooks, and the second section 124b comprises a plurality of loops. The first 124a and second 124b sections thereby together form a reversible hook-and-loop fastening. In an alternative embodiment, the first section 124a comprises a head and the second section 124b comprises a shank arranged to reversibly receive the head of the first section 124a, thereby together forming a reversible snap fastening.

Referring to <FIG>, there is shown a support <NUM> for a ballot paper. In a preferred embodiment, the device <NUM> further comprises the support <NUM>. The support <NUM> is preferably a solid, generally planar support, and can be formed from any material that can impart the required mechanical support to the ballot paper <NUM> and/or the device <NUM>, for example aluminium or acrylic.

The support <NUM> comprises alignment means <NUM> for aligning a ballot paper <NUM> and/or the device <NUM>. The alignment means <NUM> can comprise a first mating element 28a, which first mating element 128a is arranged to correspond with a respective second mating element 128b of the ballot paper <NUM> and/or of the device <NUM>. The alignment means <NUM> of the support <NUM> can comprise any number of first mating elements 128a, each first mating element 128a arranged to correspond with a respective second mating element 128b of the ballot paper <NUM> and/or of the device <NUM>. In an embodiment, the alignment means <NUM> comprise a protrusion 128a arranged to correspond with a respective aperture 128b of the ballot paper <NUM> and/or of the device <NUM>. In a preferred embodiment, the alignment means <NUM> comprise two (a pair of) protrusions 128a, each protrusion 128a arranged to correspond with a respective aperture 128b of the ballot paper <NUM> and/or of the device <NUM>. The shape and/or dimension of each first and second mating element of the arrangement means can be selected by a person skilled in the art. For example, as an alternative to a corresponding protrusion and aperture, the first and second mating element of the arrangement means can be a corresponding radius (rounded) corner and concave (rounded) channel, or a corresponding die cut and chamfer edge.

The pair of protrusions 128a is arranged to be received within the respective pair of apertures 128b of the ballot paper <NUM> and of the device <NUM>. In use, the ballot paper <NUM> overlies the support <NUM>. The or each protrusion 128a of the support aligns with and is received within a corresponding aperture 128b of the ballot paper <NUM>. The device <NUM> then overlies the ballot paper <NUM> and support <NUM>. The or each protrusion 128a of the support aligns with and passes through the corresponding aperture 128b of the ballot paper <NUM>, and aligns with and is received within a corresponding aperture 128b of the device <NUM>; thereby ensuring that the ballot paper <NUM> and the device <NUM> are aligned for use.

When voting, once an elector has accessed the at least one ballot <NUM> on the ballot paper <NUM> beneath the voting aid <NUM> and has marked a choice of vote accordingly, and once the securing means <NUM> have been displaced to occlude the at least one aperture <NUM>; the indicating means 124a, 124b will indicate to the elector if the securing means <NUM> are displaced to the open position thereby uncovering the at least one ballot <NUM>, which has already been marked. The elector is alerted to the fact that the at least one ballot has been uncovered and thereby knows not to mark that ballot <NUM> again. In the preferred embodiment, if the elector has occluded/covered the ballot <NUM> with the securing means 124a, 124b, but accidentally uncovers the ballot <NUM>, for example by inadvertently moving the securing means <NUM>, the indicating means will provide audio-tactile indication that the securing means <NUM> have been moved and the already marked ballot <NUM> has been uncovered. In the preferred embodiment, the elector can readily hear the sound of the separation of the hook-and-loop fastener, and is immediately indicated that the securing means <NUM> have been moved. The elector thereby immediately knows that an already-marked ballot <NUM> has been uncovered and should not be marked again. The securing means <NUM> can be replaced into the closed position to ensure the already-marked ballot <NUM> is not marked again.

When voting, the elector is provided with a voting aid <NUM> and overlies the at least one ballot <NUM> with the at least one aperture <NUM>. The elector identifies the at least one aperture <NUM> using the visio-tactile identification means <NUM>; marks the at least one ballot <NUM>; and secures the at least one aperture by occluding the at least one aperture <NUM>, for example by displacing the securing means <NUM> from an open position to a closed position. The voting aid <NUM> indicates the at least one aperture <NUM> is secured, for example by separating the first 124a and second 124b sections of the indicating means 124a, 124b to provide an audible sound, such that the elector immediately knows that an already-marked ballot <NUM> has been uncovered and should not be marked again.

<FIG> show a third voting apparatus <NUM> embodying the invention, while <FIG> respectively show a fourth voting apparatus <NUM> and fifth voting apparatus <NUM> embodying the invention. The voting apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are similar to the voting apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, with like numerals being used to denote like parts and the same or similar description applying as would be apparent to a skilled person.

The voting apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to receive a ballot paper having at least one ballot, or voting option, and comprises a voting aid <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> for overlying the ballot paper. The voting aid <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a respective ballot marking aid for each ballot of the ballot paper. The voting apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises an audio system <NUM> which may be the same or similar to the audio system <NUM> described hereinbefore, at least part of which may be incorporated into the body <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

The voting apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, more particularly the audio system <NUM>, comprises a plurality of user activation devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the configuration being such that, in response to operation of any one of the user activation devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the audio system <NUM> is configured to provide the audio output for a respective one of the ballots, or voting options. The user activation devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are typically provided on the body <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the voting apparatus <NUM>. Preferably, there is respective user activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> for each ballot or voting option.

The user activation devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be provided on a substrate 218a, 318a, 418a which may be part of the body <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In use, the substrate 218a, 318a, 418a may overlie the voting aid <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the arrangement being such that each activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is aligned with the respective ballot marking aid. In alternative embodiments, each user activation device may be provided on the respective voting aid.

The user activation devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, which may take any convenient form e.g. a button, switch or other user input device, are arranged for alignment with a respective ballot and/or with a respective ballot marking aid. Each activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> preferably has one or more indicator 222a, 322a, 422a arranged for alignment with a respective ballot and/or with a respective ballot marking aid. The indicator 222a, 322a, 422a may be provided on the respective activation device, or adjacent the respective activation device, e.g. on the substrate 218a, 318a, 418a.

When the apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is assembled, the voting aid <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is located such that each ballot marking aid is aligned with or otherwise associated with a corresponding user activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The preferred arrangement is such that the respective user activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is adjacent, preferably immediately adjacent, the respective aperture, window or exposure means <NUM>. By locating the respective activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> adjacent, or laterally beside, the respective exposure means, it is relatively simple for the voter to correctly correlate each activation device with the corresponding exposure means, and therefore with the corresponding marking region during use.

Each ballot marking aid includes securing means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> operable to selectively expose a marking region of the respective ballot, or voting option, and is typically operable to expose or cover the respective marking region. In preferred embodiments, the securing means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is operable between a ballot-exposing state in which it exposes the marking region of the respective ballot (when present), and a ballot-covering state (or ballot-securing state) in which it covers (or otherwise secures) the marking region of the respective ballot (when present). Preferably, the securing means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a tab or other structure that is movable between the ballot-exposing state and the ballot-covering/securing state. Conveniently, the tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or other structure is foldable between the ballot-exposing and ballot-covering/securing states, e.g. by means of a fold or hinge. In <FIG>, <FIG> all of the tabs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are shown in the ballot-covering state except tab 216A, 316A, 416A which is shown in the ballot-exposing state.

In preferred embodiments, in the ballot-exposing state, the securing means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is at least adjacent, and preferably overlaps with, the respective user activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The preferred arrangement is such that at least part of the securing means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> overlies all or part of the respective activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The arrangement is such that, when the elector activates, e.g. presses, the activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> when the corresponding securing means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is in its ballot-exposing state, the part of the securing means <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that overlaps, overlies or is adjacent the activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is also touched by the elector, thereby providing tactile feedback to the elector that allows the elector to associate the activated device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (and therefore the rendered audio signal) with the exposed ballot. This arrangement reduces the likelihood that the elector will associate the wrong activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> with an exposed ballot. For example, in use the elector may activate any given activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and, having listened to the corresponding audio signal, may decide that he or she wishes to mark the corresponding ballot. The elector may locate the corresponding tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> by any convenient means, e.g. by correlation of the respective location indicators and/or because of the alignment of the activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> with the ballot marking aid of which the tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is part, and/or because the activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is located adjacent the respective tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or using the tactile guide means, as applicable. The elector may then move the corresponding tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to its ballot-exposing state whereupon the elector may activate the activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that is now distinguished from the other activation devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> by presence of the tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. If no mistake has been made, the elector will hear the same audio signal which will confirm that he or she is marking the desired ballot. It will be understood that there are other ways in which the elector can use the apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Advantageously, however, the tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, in its ballot-exposing state, distinguishes the respective activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to the elector's touch and/or may act as a guide for the elector's hand to the respective activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, thereby helping to ensure that the elector makes a correct association between the activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the respective ballot.

In alternative embodiments (not illustrated), in particular where the securing means is foldable or otherwise operable to cover the respective window aperture <NUM> after ballot marking (see for example the voting aid <NUM> of <FIG>), the arrangement may be such that the securing means overlaps with and/or overlies the respective activation device when in the ballot-covering/securing state rather than in the ballot-exposing state.

The tabs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the voting apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are foldable onto the respective activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and as such overlap with and overlie the respective device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The preferred arrangement is such that the tabs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> cover (wholly or partly) the respective activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in the ballot-exposing state. Advantageously, the elector touches the tab <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> as he or she activates the respective activation device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. This may be achieved by selecting the size of the tab to suit the distance between the tab and the activation device. It is preferred to locate the activation devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> adjacent, preferably immediately adjacent, the tabs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, as for example is illustrated by the apparatus <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the respective indicators <NUM> may be located between the activation devices <NUM> and the tabs <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. In this case, the tab <NUM> may only partly overlap with the respective activation device <NUM> in the ballot-exposing state. Alternatively still, the arrangement may be such that the free end of the tab is adjacent but not overlapping with the respective activation device, but is sufficiently close that it is detectable by the elector's finger when activating the respective activation device.

Referring to <FIG>, an optional arrangement is shown whereby an electrical circuit substrate <NUM> is provided and includes a respective detector <NUM>, e.g. touch-sensitive switch, for each activation device <NUM>. The detectors <NUM> are connected to electrical circuitry (not shown) that is part of the audio system <NUM>. The substrate <NUM> is located beneath the array of activation devices <NUM>, i.e. below the substrate 218a, such that each activation device <NUM> is aligned with the respective detector <NUM>. When the elector activates any one of the activation devices <NUM>, the corresponding detector <NUM> is activated to send a corresponding activation signal to the audio system <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG> an alternative arrangement is provided whereby the activation devices <NUM> are provided on the substrate <NUM>, and the substrate 318a includes at least one formation, preferably a respective formation, for exposing the activation devices <NUM> for use by the elector.

It should be understood that, while the description above refers to three embodiments, the skilled person would understand that the features of said embodiments would be easily interchangeable. For example the alignment features, securing features, indicating means, attachment features, alignment features, support portions, audio output arrangements, connectivity features, or voting aid type of one embodiment may be replaced with that of another embodiment. In addition, the dimensions of the apparatus can be adapted to suit any format of ballot paper having any number of ballots thereon and as such it should not be construed as limited to the shape and size as shown in the drawings. It should also be noted that, the skilled person would understand that features of all embodiments may be replaceable with equivalent features within the knowledge of said skilled person. For example, whilst physical buttons are shown, touchscreen(s) may be provided in their place.

Claim 1:
A voting apparatus (<NUM>) for receiving a ballot paper having at least one markable voting option, the apparatus comprising:
a voting aid (<NUM>) for overlying the ballot paper and comprising a respective ballot marking
aid for each voting option of the ballot paper; and
an audio system (<NUM>) comprising means for providing an audio output comprising
information corresponding to each voting option,
characterized in that said audio system comprises a respective user activation device (<NUM>) for each voting option, and wherein in response to operation of any one of said user activation devices, said audio system is configured to provide the audio output for a respective one of the voting options.