Touchable Ink for the visually impaired - is the latest invention from Thailand's Thammasat University in conjunction with Samsung and JWT. What's so great about this ink?
The Touchable Ink developed by the university's Department of Chemistry is able to rise when dilated in certain heat temperature. The printing ink will be able to produce Braille words or images so the blind and partially sighted individuals can read.
Researchers used Samsung printers to develop the invention; and they are also supported by J Walter Thompson (JWT) advertising. The ink will be able to help visually impaired to read Braille text printed from any standard printer and revolutionize the knowledge accessibility.
Reaching out for comment, head of department Nopparat Plucktaveesak claimed that the finding is Thai's pride as it will be useful for visually impaired in global. The doctor explained further that, in Thailand, the cost of embosser is THB 100,000 and the newly developed printer will only cost no more than THB 2,000.
In an image of a closer look on the printer's result, it shows an embossed map that can be touched and read.
Currently, for A4 sized of emboss Braille print, a person has to pay around $1.1. When Touchable Ink is distributed, the cost of Touchable Ink will be 3-cent lower than the current cost per page. JWT spokeperson said that there will be no expensive cost for Braille embosser. Unlike toner quantity volume in today's cartridges, the tactile ink could cost cheaper due to the material researchers used as the ingredients.
In the process of registering the product patent, JWT managing director, Parattajariya Jalayanateja, said that the invention is the answer to the blind's needs, as reported by The Drum. She believes that this is an incredible aid for visual impairments since they have always relied on expensive Braille embossers. And as not everyone can afford to buy the embosser, the cost reduction is quite significant.
