In the Spotlight: See3D
How would you describe the shape of flames to a preschooler who is blind?
Imagine learning about the Eiffel Tower or the intricate structure of the human heart without ever seeing it.
For individuals who are blind, understanding complex shapes and structures can be a significant challenge. That’s where See3D steps in.
See3D: Bringing the World to Touch
At DELRAY Systems, we believe in the power of 3D printing to change lives. Today, we shine the spotlight on See3D, a nonprofit organization using this technology to make the world more accessible for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
The mission of See3D is to make the world more accessible for blind people. See 3D organizes the printing and distribution of 3D printed models for people who are blind. Their mission is to also spread awareness of the importance of accessible materials and independent living skills for the blind community. Through their advocacy, they work to break down barriers and empower individuals to achieve their goals.
Using 3D printing, See3D creates detailed models of objects, landmarks, and scientific concepts, allowing visually impaired individuals to explore the world through touch. See3D transforms abstract concepts into real, touchable experiences. Examples include a model of a dinosaur fossil for a young student, a topographical map for a landowner, and astronomy models for space camp.
How See 3D Works
See3D was founded in 2017 by Caroline Karbowski, whose journey into 3D printing was sparked by her interest in learning braille. According to an interview with 3D Natives (2019), when Caroline was in 6th grade she decided to teach herself braille so she could read in the car without experiencing dizziness. During her studies of learning braille, she came across an article about how 3D printing could be used to create tactile images, allowing individuals who are blind to interpret visual concepts through touch. Inspired by this idea, Caroline began learning more about 3D printing technology to design and produce models, laying the foundation for what would become See3D.
The Impact of See3D
Since its founding in 2017, See3D has distributed over 5,000 models to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Their impact reaches across all 50 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and American Samoa, and extends internationally to 24 countries and 82 organizations or schools.
Their work has been recognized and supported by 22 organizations that have awarded them grants, funding, or in-kind donations. Additionally, See3D has collaborated with 14 different 3D printing programs dedicated to serving blind and low-vision individuals.
How You can Support See3D
See3D relies on community support to continue their mission. Whether you’re a designer who can help create models, a business willing to donate 3D printing resources, or an advocate for accessibility, there are many ways to get involved. You can also help by simply raising awareness about the importance of braille literacy, orientation and mobility training, as well as having high expectations for those who are blind. Donations, volunteering, and spreading awareness about the importance of tactile learning can all make a meaningful impact.
For more information about See3D and how you can contribute, visit their website by clicking the link below.References
3D Natives. (2019, March 28). See3D is helping people see thanks to 3D printing. Retrieved from https://www.3dnatives.com/en/see3d-280320194/
See 3D. Retrieved from www.see3d.org
