KWSP, the high-performance engineering consultancy, is playing a key role in a printing innovation that could improve the quality of life for the 285 million blind and partially sighted people around the world. The UK business is developing an on-demand digital Braille and tactile printing technology as part of a European consortium.
Backed by the EU research and innovation programme Horizon 2020 SME Instrument, the project involves both UK and Hungarian engineers and is adopting a radically new approach to the digital printing of tactile elements. In simple terms, this technology will deliver a similar step change for the printing of Braille, as did the move from typewriter to processing for the printed word.
Known as b.my.jet the new printer will enable digitally printed tactile matter in the forms of Braille, as well as figures, maps and graphics to be printed in the home or office. This enables instant access to a wide range Braille material, at a significantly reduced cost compared to current embossing technology. The end goal is to create a desktop printer, which will also include scanning and “copy to Braille” capabilities.
The project follows on from a successful completed SME Instrument Phase 1 feasibility study. KWSP is working in collaboration with Hungarian-based Central European Research Centre (CERC) and digital printing specialist Alchemie Technology. KWSP is responsible for the design and manufacture of a pre-production printer, including the integration of the novel print head technology.
This digital printing process differs from traditional embossing methods, which are analogue, inflexible, and not on-demand to users. The new printer will be developed as a desktop device with comparable operating costs to a laser printer. This advance in technology will broaden the scope of printed matter in general and whilst its primary aim is to empower blind and partially sighted users, it could have further application in areas such as educational therapy.
The technology’s ability to print digitally is made possible due to the innovative printing technology, which enables tactile printing in a controlled and precise manner. It is this new technology, which makes digital printing a reality for Braille and will allow anything to be printed in a tactile way instantly and at the point of use.
KWSP’s team has now started work on the design and build of the pre-production prototype printer at its UK facility in Brackley. The consultancy’s previous experience in the high performance engineering sector – which includes motorsport, aerospace, elite sports and the medical sectors – stands it in good stead to deliver this innovative project.
Kieron Salter, managing director of KWSP, said: “Having completed several innovative special purpose digital print machine design and build projects for clients in a range of sectors, we have a lot of insight to bring to the consortium. This is a prime example of the benefits that flow from being able to print or manufacture digitally – the ability to produce or print single customised items, instantly and locally often at a reduced cost.
“We approach all projects considering a 360-degree view of technologies that have been developed in other sectors and consider if there is an application to a current project. We draw on our extensive experience of digital fabrication and additive manufacturing.
“It’s this kind of creative thinking that really adds value to projects. Our consultative approach is based on the philosophy that innovations pioneered in one industry can often be used to solve problems in others. Often called horizontal innovation, this strategy can bring huge value to manufacturing and societal challenges. I believe engineers have a social responsibility – this project is a great example of how engineering can use current and future technology to improve quality of life.”
KWSP expects to complete its first pre-production printer later in 2017. Prime consortia partners are CERC, KWSP, and Alchemie. Sub-contractors include Hungarian charitable foundation INFOALAP and Co&Co, a Hungarian product design consultancy and winner of several prestigious Red Dot design awards for product design.
