# Handheld Braille Writing Robots The Braigo Braille Printer is a Handheld Machine for the Blind By Michael Baxter | Published 2014-02-26 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/braille-printer References: [psfk](http://www.psfk.com/2014/02/lego-braille-printer.html) & [facebook](https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=292073840945425&id=282005638618912&aymt_tip=1) This [LEGO](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/braille-bricks) braille printer is a testament to the innovation and creativity of the next generation. The Braigo is a handheld braille printer that was created by a 12-year-old seventh grader. Braille machines are effective but come with a hefty price tag. This printer is changing all of that. The printer was created with a $350 Lego Mindstorms EV3 kit and a combination of [Home Depot](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pro-workspace) products. The print head is made of a thumbtack and it prints on calculator paper. While the products used aren't terribly attractive, the price tag is. The printer will also be [open source](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/project-scribe), allowing other designers to create and improve on the original Braigo. This is a huge step forward in helping the blind and the fact that it was created by a 12-year-old is truly inspiring. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.0/10 - Popularity: 52% | Activity: 89% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Low-cost Braille Technology:** Opportunity to develop affordable braille devices using inexpensive materials and open-source designs. - **DIY Assistive Technology:** Potential for individuals to create their own assistive devices using readily available components and tools. - **Youth-led Innovation:** Growing trend of young innovators creating impactful solutions for societal challenges. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Assistive Technology:** Opportunity for businesses to develop and market affordable braille printers and other assistive devices. - **Education Technology:** Potential to integrate DIY assistive technology projects in school curricula to foster innovation and accessibility. - **Youth Empowerment:** Industry focusing on supporting and empowering young innovators to bring their ideas to life. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Braille Label Printers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nemonic-dot-printer.md) - [Inclusive Label Printers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/braille-label-maker.md) - [Visually Impaired Puzzle Blocks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/braille-bricks.md) - [On-Demand Braille Label Printers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nemonic-dot.md) - [Manual Braille Label Makers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sakshar-braille.md) - [Engaging Braille Education Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/braille-learning-device.md) - [Minimal Braille Learning Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smartio-edu.md) - [Functional Block Brick Typewriters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-typewriter.md) - [Accessibility-Friendly Tactile Educational Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/brailledoodle.md)