Collins Memorial Library: OT 614: Intervention Across The Lifespan: Assistive Technology

Learn about assistive technology!

AskJAN
An A-Z list of assistive technologies and links to vendors. Designed for people with disabilities to discover accommodations when making ADA requests at their place of employment. You can search for assistive technologies based on disability or limitation
WATAP
The Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP) provides resources and services to persons who face challenges related to disability and aging to help in the selection and use of assistive technology. Select "Services" and then "Borrow a Device" to view and search borrowable assistive technologies.
Assistive Technologies Spreadsheet
My friend Brennen at WATAP describes this 3D printed assistive technologies (AT) spreadsheet as "A personal library document which [WATAP] received from a group of AT program employees located across the U.S.". He has graciously shared it with us.

I asked Brennen, the Assistive Technology Support Technician at WATAP, some questions on behalf of you all, and here are his responses:

1. What free 3D modelling software would you recommend beginners use if the students opt to create their own assistive device?

This is tricky for me to answer since I've been using CAD software on and off for the last 20 years. I see your page lists TinkerCad and SketchUp which I think are both solid recommendations. I also know a few AT specialists who prefer OpenCAD and Blender. Personally, I use Autodesk Fusion 360 due to the plug-ins that are available. One plug in can translate and auto generate 3D braille objects.

2. Any other advice for 3D printing assistive technology?

I've learned a lot about 3D printing AT since we last spoke so it's also difficult to answer. As for general advice, I'd recommend keeping a grounded perspective on what 3D printing is able to accomplish. It's a new and exciting tool to add to a workshop, but it shouldn't be a replacement for other tools and materials which have been around for decades. For example, 3D printing is great at making tactile maps and low vision teaching aids.But, it's pretty bad at making readable braille. Learning about the limitations and best uses before jumping in on designing a new product will greatly reduce the amount of time and frustration spent developing a device that isn't well suited for 3D printing to begin with.