Banner for the MakerBot Assistive Tech Challenge on Thingiverse.
During the month of October, MakerBot (Maker of the popular desktop 3D printer) is hosting a challenge to come up with better Assistive Technology. The task is to take an idea that was created at the Bay Area Make-a-thon from September 11 -13, and improve on them. This competition is a must because it encourages people to think about making assistive technologies using 3D printing, something that will make assisitive technology as a whole cheaper and easier to make. As it becomes cheaper, it also becomes more accessible to the people that need it. As it becomes easier to make, it also becomes easier to adapt the technology to someone’s specific needs. 3D Printing is by far the easiest way to do this, and what better way to get people to do it than a friendly competition? Some of the new technologies included were:
Figure 1.
The device shown in Figure 1. is a grabber that can be used with your mouth. This is of course useful to anyone without good use of their arms, and gives them the ability to live a more independent life.
Figure 2.
The device shown in Figure 2. is called iEat and it’s an independent feeding device. Also useful for people with limited use of their arms, this gives them the ability to feed themselves; which is necessary for living an independent lifestyle.
Both devices were extremely low-cost compared to market counterparts, effective, and made in a matter of days. This shows that with Make-a-thons like this, really cool, cheap alternatives to expensive technology can rapidly emerge.