Topic 4.2: Classifications of tactile Graphics
This topic introduces you to the categories of tactile graphics according to their production methods.
We classify tactile graphics according to the following production methods:
- Embossed braille
- Micro capsule
- Vacuum form
- Collage
This picture is an example of an Embossed Braille Image.
The computer image will likely require simplification before embossing. After the image has been manipulated and Braille labels and/or text are added, it is sent to the embosser for the hard copy to be printed.
Images can be imported into some Braille translation software and embossed as part of a regular Braille document.
When embossed graphics lack definition, their tactual quality can be enhanced by adding embellishments such as collage to the page.
The Tiger® braille printers use proprietary software (Tiger Software Suite) and specific Braille fonts (Braille 29) for their embosser output.
The following list provides some important considerations for creating vacuum-formed tactile graphics:
The weight (thickness) of the plastic
The temperature of the heating element
The length of time the vacuum pump runs all contributes to the quality of the copy.
NOTE: Some materials are not suitable for the vacuum-form process because they may melt, dry out, crease, fall off, or give off toxic fumes. This can happen when heated at high temperatures
