Young Innovators Make Waves with Affordable Braille Printer at International Championship

In a remarkable showcase of talent and innovation, British brothers Tom and Felix have made headlines by winning the Best Start-Up Idea award at the 2026 World Robot Olympiad European Open Championship in Zagreb, Croatia. Competing against 220 national-winning teams from 45 countries, their invention—a compact and affordable Braille printer—secured second place in both European and global rankings within the Senior Future Innovators category.

Driven by Purpose

The brothers founded their team, Hunt Robotics, with a vision to create an accessible printing solution for Braille, a technology that has historically posed financial barriers for many. Conventional commercial Braille printers can exceed £1,000, making them out of reach for numerous individuals and organizations. Tom and Felix aimed to bridge this gap, allowing for the production of essential materials like children's books and public information leaflets.

A Personal Journey

The story behind their invention is deeply personal. Inspired by their grandfather, a Yorkshire engineer who lost his sight later in life, the brothers became aware of the challenges faced by the visually impaired. Their commitment to this cause was further strengthened through their mother’s volunteer work with the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), which illuminated the struggles in accessing printed Braille materials.

Open-Source Philosophy

One of the most commendable aspects of Tom and Felix's project is their plan to release the software, design files, and assembly instructions as an open-source initiative. This approach empowers schools, charities, and communities globally to create and modify their own Braille printers, promoting accessibility and innovation without the prohibitive costs associated with commercial equipment.

International Recognition and Local Impact

The brothers' achievements did not go unnoticed by industry leaders. Their technical expertise and independent development of the Braille printer earned praise from notable organizations. Eleanor Southwood from Fight for Sight highlighted the brilliance of their concept, envisioning numerous applications for their invention. Similarly, Gareth James from STEMpura commended the brothers for demonstrating the true power of young minds tackling real-world problems.

As Tom and Felix embark on their respective journeys in higher education, they carry with them invaluable experiences from their time in Zagreb. Their story serves as a testament to the extraordinary potential of young British engineers and innovators, solidifying a proud legacy of scientific achievement in their family.

With their invention gaining international acclaim, Tom and Felix are poised to make a lasting impact in the realm of accessible technology, ensuring that their contribution to society continues well beyond the competition stage.