The AbilityOne Network Design Challenge (formerly the National Scholar Award for Workplace Innovation & Design Competition) was founded by NISH to encourage the development of creative technological solutions for barriers that prevent people with disabilities from entering or advancing in the workplace. The Design Challenge is open to any college student or student team at the graduate or undergraduate level and is a great service learning opportunity for engineering, computer science, industrial design, physical therapy and occupational therapy students!
1. First Place: Pop Nozzle Assembly Jig
The device enables people who have the use of one hand or who have limited dexterity to assemble the soda pop fountain nozzle assemblies.
2. Second Place: Knee Stabilization Joint
The Knee Stabilization Joint (KSJ) allows for more flexibility and a more natural range of motion than a traditional leg brace, thus enabling a more natural gait.
3. Tie for Third Place: (1) Utensil Bag Opening and Loading Assist
This device helps open a thin plastic bag, and hold the bag open so workers can insert the contents using one hand. Work went an average of 30 seconds faster, increasing the productivity of each person by 15%.
3. Tie for Third Place: (2) Contact Block Assembly Kit
The Kit includes a crimping tool, wedge tool, housing and stand. The kit enables people with limited manual dexterity to quickly complete the contact block assembly, a component of a switch package for large pipeline valves.
Contact Therese Stein, tstein@nish.org if you would like more information on the award program.
