A System to Enable the Blind to Work Independently on the Center Lathe

Abstract

So far industries have employed the blind only on repetitive tasks. Even when employed as machinists their role has been limited to the operation of capstan lathes and drilling machines preset by a sighted individual for preparing one type of job. This study shows that with suitable accessories to machines and appropriate work planning totally blind machinists can perform varied tasks independently. Based on the results of the study, simple accessories have been designed and tested for use with the center lathe. With these accessories the blind individual can perform all operations including turning, slotting, threading, drilling and taper turning to specified dimensions. This work may be done fully independently. Speed of work is about 75% of that of the sighted individual.