Experimental study about 3D printed tactile symbols for tactile maps and blind users

The aim of this paper is to determine whether certain volumetric tactile symbols (3D) have a level of tactile recognition similar to those of low relief (2D). This study evaluates a sample of 3D volumetric symbols produced by means of 3D printing for use in tactile maps. An experimental test was conducted on a group of 26 totally blind users with different levels of experience in tactile exploration. Part of the experiment involved analysing the percentage of correct answers as a dependent variable and the volume in the shape of the tactile symbols (3D vs. 2D) as the experimental stimulus. The results obtained indicate that volumetric symbols have a high level of tactile recognition. In addition, the study shows some of the possibilities that are emerging in the design of tactile maps and models with the development of new techniques such as 3D Printing (3DP). The inclusion of 3DP within the field of tactile map design is leading to a reassessment of some of the basic principles of tangible graphic design, such as using only two-dimensional graphic elements to produce tangible graphics. Other categories of design elements such as volumetric design elements (3D) can now be included. This opens up a range of possibilities in the field of tactile maps, providing the designer and/or the Mobility Instructor with a wider range of variations in shape from which to design or select a set of symbols for use in tactile maps.