Ep 8. inflatable safety devices, braille typewriters, and carbon fiber cellos

How It's Made is a documentary TV series that takes a closer look at the manufacturing process behind everyday items. In season 4, episode 8, viewers are presented with three diverse items: inflatable safety devices, braille typewriters, and carbon fiber cellos.

The first item discussed in the episode is inflatable safety devices. Viewers are taken inside a factory where inflatable safety devices are manufactured. The manufacturing process of these devices involves the use of high-strength materials such as PVC or nylon, which are cut and assembled into various shapes and sizes before being attached to an air pump or CO2 cartridge. The show explores how these devices are designed to inflate rapidly and remain buoyant, and how they are tested to ensure that they meet safety standards.

The second item featured in the episode is braille typewriters. The show takes a detailed look at how braille typewriters are manufactured, highlighting the importance of braille in helping the visually impaired read and write. The episode shows how each individual character in the braille alphabet is created through a series of mechanical motions, and how these characters are embossed onto a sheet of paper to create readable text. The show also explores how advancements in technology have led to the development of computer-based braille writing systems that allow for greater accessibility and versatility.

Finally, the episode showcases the manufacturing process behind carbon fiber cellos. Carbon fiber cellos are a modern twist on the classic wooden cello, designed to produce a similar sound with improved durability and reduced weight. The show takes viewers inside a factory where carbon fiber cellos are produced, exploring how molded sheets of carbon fiber are combined with resin to form the body of the instrument. Viewers are shown how skilled craftspeople work to provide finishing touches to cello bodies before strings and other components are added to produce the finished product.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a first-hand look at the precision and attention to detail required to manufacture each of these items. The show highlights how advancements in technology have helped to improve the manufacturing process, making it faster and more efficient while still ensuring that the finished product meets the highest quality standards. This episode of How It's Made provides a fascinating look at the manufacturing process behind three very different items, and is sure to leave viewers with a deeper appreciation for the products they use in their everyday lives.