Braille

Tactile writing system for visually impaired individuals

Braille on an elevator button

Braille is a tactile writing system used by people who are visually impaired. It is traditionally written with embossed paper. Braille users can read computer screens and other electronic supports thanks to refreshable braille displays. They can write braille with the original slate and stylus or type it on a braille writer, such as a portable braille note-taker or computer that prints with a braille embosser.

History

Braille was invented by Louis Braille, a Frenchman who lost his sight as a result of a childhood accident. In 1824, at the age of fifteen, he developed the braille system, which was based on a tactile military code called "night writing". Braille's system was published in 1829 and has since been adapted to almost every known language.

Structure

Braille characters are formed using a combination of six raised dots arranged in a 3x2 matrix, known as a "cell". Each cell represents a letter, numeral, or punctuation mark. The number and arrangement of these dots distinguish one character from another.

Braille text on a sign

Braille Alphabet

The braille alphabet is composed of 26 letters, each represented by a unique configuration of dots. Here are some examples:

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  Braille letter A
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  Braille letter B
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  Braille letter C
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  Braille letter D
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  Braille letter E
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  Braille letter F

Numbers and Punctuation

Numbers in braille are formed by placing a number sign before the first ten letters of the alphabet. Punctuation marks have their own unique dot patterns.

Usage

Braille is used in a variety of contexts, including education, public signage, and personal correspondence. It is an essential tool for literacy and independence among visually impaired individuals.

Education

In educational settings, braille is used to teach reading and writing to students who are blind or have low vision. Braille textbooks and materials are produced to ensure accessibility.

Public Signage

Braille is commonly found on public signs, such as elevator buttons, restroom signs, and ATMs, to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating public spaces.

Technological Advances

With the advent of technology, braille has been integrated into electronic devices. Refreshable braille displays allow users to read digital text, and braille embossers can print documents in braille.

Related pages

• Louis Braille
• Tactile writing system
• Accessibility
• Visual impairment