Abstract: A device for forming Braille characters for tactile sensation or impression onto an embossable substrate includes a substantially block-like main body. At least one array of six Braille printing pins is contained in the block in a 2.times.3 Braille cell configuration. Each said pin is contained in a first cylindrical bore and is movable between a retracted position whereby it does not protrude from the block, and an extended position whereby the tip of the pin protrudes from the block. Means are associated with each said pin for maintaining each pin in an extended position.

Abstract: A device for embossing braille characters on an embossable substrate includes the combination of a feed device advancing the substrate and embossing head for embossing dots on the substrate. The embossing head is movable relative to the feed device to emboss horizontal lines of dots on the substrate in predetermined patterns. One horizontal line of Braille characters can be printed on a substrate by the embossing of three horizontal lines of dots on the substrate, the substrate being advanced between the horizontal lines of dots by the feed device.