Embossing Graphs with Desmos

Updated

The Desmos Graphing Calculator and Geometry Tool can export graphs to a Braille embosser, enabling people to feel graphs. Supported embossers include the following models:

  • ViewPlus Tiger
  • ViewPlus Max
  • HumanWare Romeo 60
  • HumanWare Juliet 120

Watch the video for an introduction to embossing graphs with Desmos, and read on to learn more.

 

Export Your First Graph

Select Share Share icon. Then, select Export Image. Select either Braille Nemeth or Braille UAB for the file format type.

Then, select the type of embosser and size of paper you will use.

Lastly, select Download PNG.

Export image options shown. Screenshot.

 

Export to ViewPlus Embossers

To export a graph for embossing on a ViewPlus device, verify that you have installed the latest desktop ViewPlus drivers. Next, complete the following steps:

  1. Once you have created a graph, click Share Graph. Or, press Ctrl+Alt+S (Windows) Ctrl+Cmd+S (Mac).
  2. Select Export Image.
  3. Select Size and then choose your desired embosser and page size combination from the Tactile Graphics Embossers options. You can also select which Braille translation mode to use (the default is Nemeth).
  4. Select either Download PNG or Download SVG.
  5. If you download a PNG, complete the following additional steps:
    • Locate the saved image.
    • Right-click the file or use your device’s keyboard shortcut to open the Context menu. Then, select Print.
    • Set the paper size to either 8.5 x 11 or 11.5 x 11 in, depending on the selected embosser option.
    • Select Print.
  6. If you downloaded an SVG, you can use the Tiger Software Suite to open and edit your file before printing.

 

Export to the HumanWare Romeo 60 and Juliet 120

To export a graph for embossing on a HumanWare device, verify that you have installed Firebird along with the drivers for your printer. Next, complete the following steps:

  1. Once you have created a graph, click Share Graph. Or, press Ctrl+Alt+S (Windows) Ctrl+Cmd+S (Mac).
  2. Select Export Image.
  3. Select Size and then choose your desired embosser and page size combination from the Tactile Graphics Embossers options. You can also select which Braille translation mode to use (the default is Nemeth).
  4. Select Download PNG.
  5. In Firebird, select File > Open > Image File to open the image you downloaded.
  6. Set the paper size to either 8.5 x 11.0 or 11.5 x 11.0, depending on the selected embosser option.
  7. Select Edit > File > Emboss. Or, press Ctrl+E.

 

Download Braille Equations

Once you have selected a Braille embosser mode, you can download a Braille representation of the expression list. Select Share Graph > Export Image. Then, under the File Format dropdown, choose your preferred Braille format. Finally, select Download Braille Equations.

The generated file is designed to be read on an electronic Braille display. You might have to adjust the formatting before printing the file.

 

Learn More

Please write in with any questions or feedback to support@desmos.com or accessibility@desmos.com.