Comparative testing of different mechanisms to identify cost-effective approaches for micro motion in braille-tab activation

¹ Jayshree Periwal International School, Jaipur, India
² On My Own Technology Pvt Ltd., Mumbai, India

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

This study addresses the challenge of text-to-Braille conversion for visually impaired individuals by evaluating various actuation mechanisms for cost-effective and efficient Braille display systems. Existing solutions are often limited by high costs, slow performance, and impractical designs for real-world applications. The research investigates four actuation methods: electromagnetic repulsion, thermal expansion, solenoid actuation, and vibration motors. Each mechanism was prototyped using 3D printing with PLA material and subjected to rigorous testing to evaluate performance metrics such as power consumption, response time, durability, and accuracy. The electromagnetic repulsion system demonstrated the highest accuracy and reliability but was bulky and expensive, with a relative cost index of 100. The solenoid system balanced cost and performance, proving to be a practical alternative with minor drawbacks such as heat buildup over time. The thermal expansion mechanism showed potential for long-term use but was hampered by slow response times and safety concerns. Finally, the vibration motor system was the most cost-efficient but lacked precision due to potential human error during interpretation. Through comparative analysis, the solenoid system was identified as the most cost-effective, while the electromagnetic repulsion system excelled in overall efficiency. The findings highlight the trade-offs between cost, speed, and accuracy across different mechanisms. This research provides a foundation for developing more accessible and scalable Braille conversion systems by optimising these mechanisms and integrating eco-friendly materials. Future work will focus on enhancing accuracy and reducing costs for widespread adoption.