Tactile Map

A map designed to be read by touch, using raised lines, textures, braille labels, and other tactile elements to represent geographic or spatial information for blind and visually impaired users. Tactile maps can represent indoor spaces (floor plans), outdoor areas (campus maps, city maps), or transit systems. Creating effective tactile maps requires simplification of visual map details, selection of distinguishable textures for different land uses or features, clear boundary lines, and appropriate labeling. Tactile maps can be produced through embossing, swell paper, 3D printing, or embroidery.