History and development of typewriters for the blind
Initiative of the Slovak Union of the Blind and Partially Sighted
After the fall of the Iron Curtain and the reunification of Germany in 1989, the prices of imported mechanical typewriters for the blind increased significantly, making them difficult to afford for the Slovak population.
The Union of the Blind and Partially Sighted of Slovakia realised that a solution had to be found on home soil.
Thus began their journey to create a more affordable typewriter for those who need it most.
First steps in our hands: the ICU in Vráblí
The production of typewriters was started by Mr. Jozef Puhák and Mr. Ján Solčiansky in Vrábly, where they created the JIPO model, inspired by the German Minipicht model.
Their efforts bore the first fruit when this small machine started to find its place on the market and among the community of blind and partially sighted people.
Through development and improvement, their work began to be taken to the next level, ready for global success.
Production and achievements of TATRAPOINT mechanical typewriters
Our company ŠVEC a SPOL took over the production of mechanical typewriters after the successful launch of the JIPO model.
With determination and an innovative approach, we started to develop a new model that would meet the higher demands not only of Slovak but also of foreign users.
This is how the TATRAPOINT typewriter was created, which has become a synonym of quality and reliability in the segment of typewriters for the blind and visually impaired.
One of the main success factors was our ability to adapt the product to the needs of users, which included ergonomic design, easy handling and modern appearance.
The first pieces of TATRAPOINT immediately gained the attention of Slovak users and foundations working with the blind.
Thanks to the favourable response, we were able to expand our production and start exporting abroad.
The TATRAPOINT typewriter thus reached various parts of the world, where it is still used and appreciated for its simplicity and efficiency.
Awards and international expansion
The development of new models and the continuous improvement of existing products has also led to international recognition.
The TATRAPOINT ADAPTIVE model, which is characterised by its modern design and colour scheme, has won major awards, including the National Design Award and an award at the Design Biennial in Slovenia.
These achievements underline our commitment to creating products that combine functionality with aesthetic appearance.
In addition to the professional public, TATRAPOINT has also received positive feedback from everyday users who appreciate its quiet operation, lightness and reliability.
By being able to source all components from Slovakia, we are able to maintain high product quality while supporting the domestic economy.
Today, we export our mechanical typewriters to more than 60 countries around the world.
This success would not have been possible without our constant efforts to improve and innovate our products that make life easier and more fulfilling for the blind and visually impaired.
Our work in developing technology for the blind fills us with pride and motivates us to continue this meritorious work.
Humanitarian support and affordability
President of the Union of the Blind and Partially Sighted of Slovakia, RNDr.
Branislav Mamojka, highlights our humanitarian commitment and steps towards financial accessibility for Slovak users.
Without our support, many blind and partially sighted people would not be able to obtain a quality typewriter at an affordable price.
Humanitarianism and the desire to help those in need are key to our company ŠVEC a SPOL.
Our cooperation with the Slovak Humanitarian Council and other foundations allows us to constantly look for new ways to reduce the cost of production and sales of our machines.
In this way, we ensure that as many people as possible can gain access to a necessary tool for their daily lives.
Visit of President Zuzana Čaputová
In April 2024, we were honoured by a visit of President Zuzana Čaputová, who expressed interest in our Vrabel engineering company during her visit to the region.
She was especially interested in typewriters for the blind, which we have been producing for almost 30 years.
The owner of the company, Ľubomír Švec, showed the President how these machines are produced and also told her the history of their creation and the idea of their production.
One of the gifts for the President was 1 typewriter for the blind.
Typewriter ended up in the Vatican
During her visit to the Vatican, President Zuzana Čaputová presented our typewriter for the blind to Pope Francis. It is a great honour for us and we are sure that it will find its place with those who need it most.
