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4.8 V Symbol for orientation on the model
The purpose of this article is to introduce the V symbol to the 3D printing community in the context of visual impairment. The V symbol is scalable and thus, among other things, easier to print, easy to attach to models, and also quite small (the original size is 2cm square but it can be rescaled […]
19. January 2023
4.7.1 Hinges
Hinges can be created directly in some 3D drawing programs, but this is not possible with all software. Moreover, these hinges may be not be optimised for 3D printing. Hence, this tutorial will take a universal approach. Durable hinges can be created which are also easy to print. By using a nail as a pin, […]
18. January 2023
4.7 Foldable model
Introduction Depending on the geometry and the intended purpose, a model may need to be able to be unfolded by a student. This is particularly the case when something inside the model is to be explored. Drawings for sighted students may have transparent outer walls, so that, for example, the height of a pyramid (geometry) […]
17. January 2023
4.6 Use of Colour
As you can probably imagine, using colour in your 3D prints can increase its visual appeal. Different types of filament are available in various standard colours and if you cannot find the exact colour you are looking for, you can even let a manufacturer mix the precise colour you need if you want. So in […]
16. January 2023
4.5 Minimum distance between two objects
When exploring a 3D model by touch, it is important to be able to distinguish the shapes and features of different objects. If there is not enough space between two objects the user will experience them as one, missing out on the intended information provided by the shape and/or features. It is important to use […]
15. January 2023
4.4 Surfaces and textures
As far as different surfaces and textures are concerned, 3D printing of course offers less variety than a model incorporating different materials such as felt, metal, wood etc. We are initially working with only one material (PLA), so differentiation of surfaces must be enabled via the printed structure. Post-processing of surfaces with paint and the […]
14. January 2023
4.3 Arrows
The following suggestions are based on Guidelines and Standards for Tactile Graphics from BANA and other current standards. Arrows can be used effectively to represent directions. The shape should simply be composed of the arrowhead and shaft. An open arrowhead should be symmetrical with two sides of the same length and with the same angle […]
13. January 2023
4.1 Line symbols
If designing a model for visually impaired learners, lines must be tactilely distinguishable. The most fundamental rule is that each line must be designed or printed in relief and not be recessed. Dimensions of the lines It is sufficient to design a raised line as a simple block extrusion. It is unnecessary to round off […]
12. January 2023
4.2 Point symbols
Not every point on a model needs to be specially designed tactilely; for example, for corner points on pyramids or cubes, there is no need to mark the points in addition to the designation. However, for some highlighting it is necessary to place points on surfaces. Standard representation Simple points are best implemented with an […]
3.7 Labeling with Braille
As described in article 3. Braille, 3D printed models can very well be directly provided with Braille. When designing the model, the braille can be applied directly to the model in the appropriate 3D software, so that the 3D printer can print it directly onto the object. This article first discusses the factors that influence […]
11. January 2023
3.6 Braille in OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD is a programming language used to create 3D objects. Anyone who has already gained experience with a programming language will be comfortable using it. There are numerous libraries in OpenSCAD that can be used for your own projects. These include, for example, libraries for writing braille. The library “Braille 3D text creator” exports the function […]
9. January 2023
3.5 Braille in 3D Builder
Microsoft 3D Builder is a Windows app that comes as part of the Windows 10 operating system. The main function of 3D Builder is to open and view files in different formats, but it also has a limited editing capability. The tools are very easy to use, but the range of functions is restricted. For […]
8. January 2023
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