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Introduction
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Tactile graphics and Braille are an important part of accessible education for the blind. The RCPD maintains two tactile graphics embossers that produce pictures, charts and drawings that our blind students touch. Currently tactile graphics are produced in several ways. The most common method is embossing Braille paper by solenoid activated pins. This method is noisy and it produces a somewhat fragile image that quickly flattens with repeated use. The embossers are very expensive ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 each. www.viewplus.com Another process uses "swell paper" http://americanthermoform.com/swell-touch-paper/ that is a little more robust but can cost $1 to $2 per sheet. The image is limited in resolution and the edges of lines and dots are often blurred. It is also a two-step process requiring a special machine to swell the image. Vacuum forming is used to duplicate images from a master. This can produce durable images but is only used when high production is needed. The masters are often made by NC mill or by hand. Similar to the swell paper this method has a limited resolution with rounded edges. An emerging technology for tactile graphics includes Ink-jet images made by layering a specially designed ink that is cured between layers. This technique is not currently available in a production device. Another technology that is being used for the blind is 3D printing. http://3dtactilegraphics.com/ This was used last semester at MSU to make several 3D models for our students enrolled in calculus and physics. Many printers are available commercially however the machines are designed to make 3D shapes not tactile maps. Many kits and parts are available to build your own 3-D printer. http://www.tridprinting.com. Using these resources a specialty printer could be assembled to create tactile graphics with improved features. |
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Project Description
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Construct a low-cost specialty printer that can be used to create 11" x 17" tactile graphics and maps for blind users at MSU. Investigate the feasibility of additive manufacturing technology for this printer. This project will be documented and a duplicate device will be assembled for the school for the blind in India.
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