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<p>Tactile graphics (TGs) are visual representations for individuals with visual impairments. Traditionally, the fabrication of TGs has been limited to specific production systems. However, low-cost additive manufacturing (AM) techniques now enable the rapid and economical production of TGs, allowing for broader applications. This study analyzes different AM techniques such as SLS (selective laser sintering), SLA (stereolithography), and FDM (fused deposition modeling), for manufacturing typical features found in TGs. The study’s main goal is to identify the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of each AM technique in the low-cost production of TGs by non-expert users. For this purpose, several TG designs including Braille notations and other symbols are prepared and the manufactured TGs are inspected using a digital microscope, a 3D scanner, a profile projector and a profilometer. The results show that FDM is a cost-effective AM technology for TGs when larger features are used; however, it has significant limitations in reproducing small, detailed tactile elements such as Braille dots or rounded corners. SLS can be a suitable AM technique for outdoor TGs but presents high surface roughness values, which reduces the tactile experience. Finally, SLA offered the best overall performance in terms of accuracy, feature definition, and tactile clarity, making it the preferred option for applications that require precise Braille reproduction. These experimental results aim to improve the design and manufacturing of accessible TGs, contributing to the development of inclusive tools for individuals with visual impairments.</p>

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Geometrical evaluation of additive manufacturing techniques for tactile graphic production

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年7月14日

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  • Berenice M. Tovar-Batista,
  • José V. Abellán-Nebot,
  • Jaume Gual-Ortí,
  • Julio Serrano

摘要

Tactile graphics (TGs) are visual representations for individuals with visual impairments. Traditionally, the fabrication of TGs has been limited to specific production systems. However, low-cost additive manufacturing (AM) techniques now enable the rapid and economical production of TGs, allowing for broader applications. This study analyzes different AM techniques such as SLS (selective laser sintering), SLA (stereolithography), and FDM (fused deposition modeling), for manufacturing typical features found in TGs. The study’s main goal is to identify the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of each AM technique in the low-cost production of TGs by non-expert users. For this purpose, several TG designs including Braille notations and other symbols are prepared and the manufactured TGs are inspected using a digital microscope, a 3D scanner, a profile projector and a profilometer. The results show that FDM is a cost-effective AM technology for TGs when larger features are used; however, it has significant limitations in reproducing small, detailed tactile elements such as Braille dots or rounded corners. SLS can be a suitable AM technique for outdoor TGs but presents high surface roughness values, which reduces the tactile experience. Finally, SLA offered the best overall performance in terms of accuracy, feature definition, and tactile clarity, making it the preferred option for applications that require precise Braille reproduction. These experimental results aim to improve the design and manufacturing of accessible TGs, contributing to the development of inclusive tools for individuals with visual impairments.