STEM

Galaxies

While preparing materials for a student, I came across the black and white image below, used to demonstrate the classification of spiral arm galaxies. I created a 3D model using a free lithophane generator, but the important features were not clear enough to distinguish between the different classifications. I edited and enlarged the model until the tactile features were easily identifiable, and I then added print and braille labels.The lithophane tool creates a 3D model based on the light and dark colors in an image. Dark colors are raised the least and bright colors are raised the most. This creates "peaks" of light on the galaxy maps where bright stars or galaxy centers appear.

3D model converted from image and edited

Enlarged galaxy print with braille label

hand-size 3D print of a single galaxy with braille label

3 3D prints of spiral arm galaxies with braille and print labels

Moon Phases

These graphics were created by converting a gray scale image into a 3D model. I found that the gray scale conversion alone produced sloping lunar phases that were distracting. I created a new model that corrected the slope to clearly show each stage of the lunar cycle. This new model works well in a large or small scale. The larger scale allows for exploration of the lunar surface texture. There are some minor distortions in the print shown below that can be resolved with some printer adjustments, but they do not distract from the tactile experience.

Large and small print of moon phases model

Lunar Craters

Image for studying the relative age of lunar craters. Gray scale image conversion with braille labels added.

Staphylococcus

Early test of gray scale image conversion

Angles with Braille Labels

Multi-color print of angle measurements with braille labels