Helping the visually impaired with signs

A laser etcher is a very versatile tool, allowing a skilled designer to create useful, beautiful objects.  One way of doing that is to create signs.  Signs can take many forms from the plain, mass produced designs we see almost every day to the unique, custom creations that add beauty and functionality to the space they are added to.  They may have many features but the most important feature of a sign is to convey information.  Most often, signs convey that information visually, but for the visually impaired, that way is braille.

What is Braille?

Braille is a pattern of raised bumps or dots that help the visually impaired gather information.  Using braille, people can read books, understand signs, and even write letters using braille (with the help of a braille typewriter).  There have been many technological improvements, such as talking clocks, audiobooks, etc, that help visually impaired people communicate, but braille is most often used on static objects to provide directions, convey warnings, and inform the reader.  There are a variety of methods to create braille writing and one of those is using a laser etcher.

Signs your way

Laser etchers are often utilized to create custom and semi-custom signs.  Many of the signs are used in places and situations where communication with the visually impaired is useful if not vital (think bathrooms).  The flexibility of a laser etcher means that the sign can be designed to be both visually appealing and useful to the visually impaired.

To accomplish this the designer uses the laser to burn holes through the material, often acrylic, and then small spheres of acrylic are inserted into the holes.  When done properly, the acrylic spheres extend through the front of the object just the right amount, within the specifications of the braille system.  By utilizing this technique, the creative laser designer can add tremendous value to a large number and variety of projects.  How could the addition of braille improve a project or idea or yours?