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"Kids with limited motor function need ways to interact with digital systems, and we see potential for the PushnDraw to both assist with occupational therapy and allow personal artistic expression," says Ashley Pigford, an art and design professor at the University of Delaware who's been designing and developing assistive technology for people with disabilities for more than 20 years.
Her latest project is the PushnDraw, a spring-loaded device that allows children with upper limb disabilities, such as arthrogryposis, to draw with their hands, reports the News Journal.
Pigford came up with the idea for the device after her son was born with arthrogryposis, a condition that causes joint contractures in the upper and lower extremities, per a press release.
The device initially allowed children with arthrogryposis to trace letter forms, navigate through mazes, and draw to their heart with a dry erase marker, Pigford says.
But with a $50,000 grant from the Maggie E.
Neumann Sciences Research Fund, Pigford and a team of mechanical engineering and physical therapist students have been able to significantly advance the mechanics of the device and incorporate computer programming and on-the-fly customization to accommodate varying levels of ability and feedback from parents and kids.
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A customized collection of grant news from foundations and the federal government from around the Web.
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Mackinac Policy Conference left early childhood education off this year's agenda.By 2027, make Detroit a city that puts young children and families first, says James Ribbron, executive director of...more
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Tesla plans to deploy a small fleet of robotaxis in Austin in the coming weeks.Tesla FSD 13.2.9 will still run a kid down while illegally blowing past a stopped school bus with red lights flashing...more
Awarded funding will support a wide range of activities between now and September 30, 2025.The FCCN initiative, supported by $85,000 in grant funding, will help build and sustain a Family Child Care...more
The Delivering Innovative Vocational Education through Virtual Reality Technology new workforce training program aimed at preparing individuals with disabilities for the program.DIVE-VRT delivers...more
Children are growing up surrounded by screens, apps, and smart devices.Being intentional about tech use goes a long way toward deepening interest in tech and creating meaningful experiences.Creating...more
Safeguarding innovation and trade secrets in American AI leadership Safeguarded innovation andtrade secrets in U.S.AI leadership.Testimony was given before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts,...more
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