This adds Braille to my other tactile compass (Available on Makeronline here):
![]()
Adding braille focusing even more on the ability for visually impaired people to use it. If you have suggestions on how to improve or make a derivative that would benefit this user group then please message me and we can work together to create it.
This compass is easy to use, compact and has no sharp point. Simply place the pivot hole where you want the centre and place your finger on it. Then insert a pen or pencil at your desired radius and rotate. No screws to tighten or points to stab. It's actually quicker to use than a traditional compass as no adjustments are necessary.
Great for school or crafting.
It's deceptively simple design has many features
- Raised from the paper to avoid smudges when used with ink
- Alignment notches vertically and horizontally aligned with centre hole
- Large numbers
- Indented number version for additional tactility
- 0.5mm indents along one edge allow the visually impaired to mark a distance
- Flat raised edge for use as a ruler
As always your constructive criticism and ideas for improvement are welcome, let's make things better together. Want a change or another model based off this? Send me a message and I'll see what I can do.
Printing
It's quick and easy! But here are some tips if you want them:
If you're using your own print profile then slow down the first layer to 25 mm/s to improve the bed adhesion on the Braille. You want 0.2mm Layer height and to change colour on layer 4 and 8.
The print has a 0.2mm tolerance and has worked on my printers. Occasionally I'll get a print that takes a bit of persuasion to free the pivot but usually it's free after cooling down and popping off the bed by it's self. Patience is a virtue, if you rip it off the bed while warm then this can warp the ruler.
Please don't complain if the numbers come out poorly, they shouldn't but this greatly depends on the cleanness of the print bed which over time loses it's adhesion but can be refreshed with cleaning.
The print profiles print the first layer slowly to help with adhesion but this will not overcome a bed that needs cleaning. I rarely clean my bed but occasionally I will get an issue with adhesion and that's when I give it a good wash with soap and water.
You are prohibited from sharing, sub-licensing, selling, renting, hosting, transferring, or distributing the digital file or 3D printed versions of this object, as well as any other derivative work in either digital or physical form (including remixes).You are not allowed to use the objects in any manner that involves charging money or collecting fees without permission.

