Signs must meet a number of criteria in order to be deemed ADA compliant. One of these specifications is that most permanent signage in public facilities must have Braille lettering. This ensures that individuals with visual impairments will be able to read and understand what the sign is trying to convey.
There are a few ways that Braille signage can be created, but one of the most popular methods is Raster® Braille. This process is one worth learning about, particularly for those who are in the market for ADA-compliant signage.
What is Raster® Braille?
Raster® Braille is a frequently used method of crafting signage that complies with ADA guidelines—specifically those that are geared toward individuals who are visually impaired. Though photopolymer is quickly growing in popularity, this fast and easy rotary engraving process continues to be the industry’s most popular option for creating ADA signage.
The Raster® Braille method involves drilling holes in the sign material and inserting beads, which creates the tactile words and numbers that are often seen on displays in public facilities. Using this process, sign manufacturers can create rounded dots that meet ADA guidelines in terms of dot dimension, height, spacing, space, and more. Further, the use of the Raster® Braille method results in clean, easy-to-read lettering.
As this method is patented and trademarked by Accent Signage Systems, a license is required to use it.
What tools are required for the Raster® Braille method?
Given the complex nature of Braille, it’s important to have the appropriate tools to get the job done correctly:
- Sign shops using the Raster® Braille method must purchase a license from Accent Signage Systems.
- Sign shops must also have an engraver that is compatible with the Raster® Braille System.
- Finally, sign shops need to have reliable Braille translation software.
As Erie Custom Signs is a premier manufacturer of ADA-compliant signage, we are licensed and authorized to use Accent Signage Systems’ Raster Braille® method.
The Vision 1624 CNC Engraver we use in our facility is compatible with the Raster® Braille System. Further, our engraver, manufactured by Vision Engraving & Routing Systems, contains a Braille translator in the engraving software package.
At Erie Custom Signs, we strive to use the most advanced, high-quality equipment on the market, and that includes our CNC engraver. We trust the machinery we’ve obtained from Vision Engraving & Routing Systems, as this company has been manufacturing computerized marking systems and accessories for more than 35 years. Their products have proven time and time again that they’re some of the best available today.
For sign shops interested in outsourcing their ADA signage orders to our team, it’s also worth noting that our Vision 1624 CNC Engraver was manufactured right here in the United States. Potential clients will undoubtedly appreciate the fact that every facet of their signage has been carefully crafted at home.