Express & Star

Blind man uses voice recognition software to create PPE

A blind man has been creating PPE by using voice recognition software with a 3D printer.

Published
Carl Galloway

Carl Galloway, from Wolverhampton, lost his sight five years ago and before the coronavirus lockdown he attended the Beacon Centre for the Blind, where he enjoys cooking and exercising in the gym.

The 40-year-old, who used to work for Tata Steel, started to experiment with using voice recognition software and progressed to operating a 3D printer, initially making fun designs for his family, such as pen holders.

He was recently inspired by a story in the Shropshire Star and has started to manufacture butterfly clips, worn by nurses to stop face mask straps from rubbing ears.

Carl does this from his living room – and does it for free.

Carl has also joined Euan's Guide, a review website for people with disabilities, and is setting up a Black Country Friendship review group, which will help organise a small army of disabled people to review and recommend establishments offering good disabled access and facilities.