Sustrans Cymru
Title: Game-Changing Tactile Maps for People with Visual Impairments
Research Area: 3D Printing and Prototyping
Partner: Sustrans Cymru
Project outline
Project outline
In a pioneering pilot project, ATiC collaborated with Sustrans Cymru to explore how 3D-printed tactile maps could support independent travel and navigation for people with visual impairments in Wales. The project aimed to make active travel infrastructure more inclusive by enabling meaningful input from visually impaired individuals during the design process.
The study demonstrated that tactile maps are a powerful tool for engaging users with visual impairments, helping them provide feedback on safer, more accessible urban environments. The findings also highlighted the need for further research into the benefits of high-contrast tactile maps as a consultation medium.
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ATiC played a central role in developing and evaluating the tactile maps, ensuring they were both functional and user-friendly.
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- Assessed the effectiveness of various tactile map designs—such as bus bypasses and shared cycling routes—as consultation tools.
- Converted 2D active travel infrastructure designs into digital tactile maps, which were then 3D printed and refined for different manufacturing processes.
- Conducted usability testing with members of Visual Impairment West Glamorgan to evaluate map performance and gather user feedback.
Impact:
This collaboration showcased how inclusive design and emerging technologies can empower underrepresented communities and shape more accessible public spaces.
