As an alternative to swell paper and heat fuser to generate tactile graphics, computer-generated tactile graphics can be produced using 3D printing methods.
These instructions will enable you to create a single layer tactile graphic (all one height) using a FDM 3D printer. Refer to the research paper by Barros, Correia & Texeira (2023) for further details.
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- Prepare your image file. You can use any drawing software that you are most familiar with.
- Set the size of the image to match the size of your printing area.
- Design the image in a similar manner to a swell paper diagram:
- Standard line thickness 2.25 point
- Rounded corners
- Braille font size 24-26 point
- Save as PNG format. If the software does not provide the option to save as PNG, convert it using a free tool like Inkscape.
- Prepare the paper. Braille paper works well as its thickness means that it does not bend too much after printing.
- If adding print labels for sighted/low vision users, do this now.
- Cut the paper to the size of the build plate.
- Secure the paper to the build plate
- Bulldog clips are a quick and easy method for securing the paper to the build plate and they do not cause damage. The more the better!
- If the paper is thicker than 180gsm, the build plate height may need to be adjusted.
- Convert the 2D .png image to a 3D .stl file.
OPTION 1: Import the .png file directly into Cura.- Specify that black areas should be raised
- Choose a maximum height that is equal to your initial layer height. 0.25mm is recommended.
- Set the base height at 0 so that the image will print directly onto the paper
- Prepare your image file. You can use any drawing software that you are most familiar with.
OPTION 2: If your slicer does not accept image files, use the Cowlicks automated tool.
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- Go to https://cowlicks.github.io/
- Upload your .png image
- Check and download the resultant .stl file
- Slice.
- Ensure that the print size is the same as the original image size.
- Check the maximum height of the initial layer in your slicer. 0.25mm is recommended.
- Build plate adhesion type should be set to “none”.
- Print
- For best results, use a flexible filament that will not peel off the page when it is bent. TPU filament works well. PET-G and nylon are other good options. However, note that flexible filaments work best on printers with a feed mechanism close to the print head. Ultimaker printers are not recommended for this type of filament.
- Use clear filament if you are 3D printing on top of an ink printed image, otherwise use a high contrast colour to assist users who have low vision.
Last updated: June 3, 2024 at 15:47 pm
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