Tactile maps for blind people Ended

I am seeking a 3D designer to create tactile maps for blind individuals. Our mission is to develop tools that enhance understanding of the world through touch. We create maps for schools and individuals to help them better understand the world around them.
This initial project will focus on creating an elevation map of Ohio, and will be a test to determine suitability for future, long-term projects.
I am hoping a long-term collaboration where we will be designing dozens of areas with several maps.
Attached is an elevation map of Uganda we created, we are looking for similar solutions.

I envision a series of maps covering diverse regions. The first map will require more initial research, but subsequent variations of the same region will become easier, for example we will continue with a map of cities and waters of Ohio, then transportation in Ohio. Please note that on a tactile map for blind people you add much less information than on a print map.
Project Goals and Expectations
• Long-Term Collaboration: I am looking for a designer interested in a long-term, part-time role designing dozens of maps.
• Research: The initial map will require research using internet resources such as Google Maps, Google Earth, YouTube, and other online archives and photos.
• Tactile Design: The maps should be designed to be easily understood by touch.
• Iterative Process: The first map will be the most challenging; after that, we will make variations on a particular map before moving on to a different region.
• Technical Specifications: You will need to use Bambu Studio to verify your work. The final model needs to print without problems on a Bambu P1P 3D printer. The model will be printed from PLA.
• Provided Specifications: You will be given detailed specifications for tactile borders, lakes, rivers, and cities. Specific Braille points will be provided as copy-paste text, so no prior Braille knowledge is required.
First Project: Ohio Elevation Map
• Focus: Create a 3D elevation map of Ohio.
• Size/Scale: The map should ideally fit within a 20x20 cm area. If a larger format is needed, the design should allow for it to be printed in multiple pieces.
• Key Elements: The map should incorporate major cities, rivers, and other important geographic features.
• Deliverables:
– An STL file with 0.2 layer height, ready for 3D printing.
– A 3MF file optimized for the Bambu P1P printer with general PLA and error-free slicing.
– The final design must be verified in Bambu Studio.
Map Elements
The map will include tactile representations of the following:
• Elevation: The map will show elevation through variations in height. The design will use smooth elevation transitions without clear steps between boundaries
• Water Features: Rivers will be represented by dotted lines and lakes, seas, and oceans and lakes will be marked using certain types of dots.
• Cities: Cities will be marked, and the size of the marking will vary based on population size.
• Borders: Country borders will be represented by continuous lines.
• Transportation: Roads will be represented by lines of different widths and heights based on their importance, and railroads will be marked by different lines.
• Scale Bar: A scale bar will be provided.
Additional details
• Map Orientation: The map is aligned with true north, and the Braille markings will be modeled accordingly.
• Map Cutting: If necessary, the map can be cut using a dovetail technique.
I will provide sample maps we used previously where you can learn the techniques and reuse components as needed.
Application Requirements
Please provide the following in your application:
Questions:
• Your rate per map. Provide an amount for which you would be willing to create these maps in average.
• A brief explanation of your 3D design experience, please provide information about any map design experience.
• What is the favorite 3d object you created and why?
I am looking forward to receiving your application.
Tom read less