Robley Cook’s Story & The History of Braille in Elevators
Robley G. Cook founded SCS Elevator Products in the mid-1970s (then known as Stencil Cutting and Supply Co). Robley was a visually impaired individual who recognized the need for directional braille signs to help visually impaired people more effectively navigate the world around them. He identified the elevator industry as his primary market, creating a line of braille sign products for the elevator. He then approached elevator manufacturers with his invention, and his metal stamped braille signs were well-received. Soon thereafter, his signs began to appear on elevator door jambs and cab control plates.
The ADA Makes Elevator Braille a Requirement
It wasn’t until the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990 that braille was required in elevators. The ADA now requires that all elevators have both raised numerals and their braille counterpart on all signage. In addition, a tactile star with braille is required on both jambs at the main entry level, and braille must be located below or next to floor numbers on the control panel.
Having passed away in 1983, Robley didn’t live to see this victory himself, but his legacy lives on at SCS Elevator Products. The business he began in the 1970s continued to grow long after his death, and remains strong to this day.
Robley’s Work Continues Today
Robley’s business operated with a focus on continued growth using newly designed die cast braille plates to aesthetically complement all elevators. SCS developed and patented a new line of elevator buttons, the PAVE series, and currently mills the buttons in-house as well as manufacturing almost all other components of these buttons.
Today, under the leadership of our President, David Muelken, SCS Elevator Products continues to develop innovative methods to meet the needs of an ever-changing market using our depth of manufacturing capabilities. SCS focuses on designing, manufacturing and providing finished products using our core competencies – plastic injection molding, die casting, metal stamping, decorating and assembly. These capabilities make us a diversified supplier that provides quality, service and reliability to our customers.
Walking in Robley’s Footsteps – Our People
But the biggest thing that sets SCS apart from any other elevator signage manufacturer and supplier is our passionate, dedicated, and talented team of people. Our corporate culture and team members follow the P.I.T.C.H. philosophy – Positive, Integrity, Teamwork, Customer-focused, Honest – a straightforward but powerful mindset that will continue to propel SCS Elevator Products and our employees to a bright and successful future. We think Robley would be proud of what his company has become.
SCS is here for all of your elevator braille needs. Shop our online store or give us a call at 800.783.4633. We’d love to hear from you!
