Assistive Technology DIY Contest

RESNA (Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America) International Special Interest Group (SIG) Do-It-Yourself Contest

Deadline is April 1, 2015 

Those with experience working or living in developing countries know that the assistive device needed is often not commercially available or affordable. As a step toward remedying this problem, the RESNA International SIG is sponsoring an assistive technology DIY (Do It Yourself!) contest. 

We are looking for innovative, low-cost DIY assistive technology that could be replicated around the world. Whirlwind Wheelchair's generous donation will allow us to offer cash prizes including $300 for first place, $150 for second place, and $50 for third place! 

Please submit a zip folder with ALL of the information below to RESNA.International.SIG@gmail.com to be considered for the contest by April 1st, 2015:

1. Written description of the device that includes: a) how many people around the world you estimate could benefit from this device; and b) a brief description of the beneficiaries (disability, geographic region, age, gender, etc.). 
2. Drawing of the device.
3. Pictures of the device.
4. Video of the device and how to use it, where appropriate.
5. List of materials required to make the device, where to obtain them and their cost.
6. Instructions on how to make the device (written acceptable, but good video instructions will usually make your entry more competitive).

Entries can be in English or Spanish. Spanish videos must be captioned in English. Entries with captioning for deaf and hard of hearing or audio for blind and low vision will be awarded extra points.

Scoring System:

• 10 points for innovative concept (Only DIY projects that have not been published elsewhere are eligible).
• 25 points for completeness and clarity of description of device and how to use it.
• 25 points for completeness and clarity of instructions for how to make the device.
• 30 points for low cost and ease of fabrication.
• 10 points for number of people who could benefit from this device.
• Up to 20 extra points for including: 
• a) ways to enhance the basic design, these may include alternatives, additions, and adaptations (include at least one example); 
• b) ways to make it simpler if the recommended materials, tools, or skills are not available (include at least one example); and 
• c) accessibility of materials to deaf/hard-of-hearing and/or blind/low vision individuals.  

Note:  Extra points will only be counted if you score at least 80 in the first five categories. Total possible points = 120.

Questions? Contact the International SIG at RESNA.International.SIG@gmail.com.