Six Fab Labs from different corners of the nation came together to unveil a plethora of assistive technology projects at the recently concluded Fab Fest, held against the majestic backdrop of the Clock Tower. The event, themed “Assistive Technology: Building Accessibility, Inclusivity, and Independence,” served as a platform to exhibit cutting-edge solutions aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Assistive technology (AT) stands as a beacon of hope for those facing unique challenges, offering avenues for improved accessibility and independence across various spheres of life, be it education, work, or daily activities.
One of the standout showcases hailed from the College of Science and Technology’s (CST) Fab Lab, where students demonstrated their prowess in crafting assistive devices. Leveraging the capabilities of 3D printing technology, they devised ingenious solutions like pen and cup holders tailored to aid individuals with limited hand strength. Additionally, their creation of an alphabet board for young learners, seamlessly integrating Dzongkha and English letters, exemplifies the intersection of innovation and inclusivity.
Meanwhile, the Jigme Namgyal Super Fab Lab (JNSFL) captured attention with their hand gesture-controlled robotic arm, designed to assist both individuals with physical disabilities and the elderly in performing everyday tasks. Through intuitive hand gestures recognized by sensors, users can effortlessly navigate their environment, from fetching items to opening doors, fostering greater autonomy in their daily routines.
Adding another layer of accessibility, the team introduced the “eSpeak” app, featuring an array of icons for common tasks, each accompanied by audio messages in Dzongkha, simplifying communication for users.
Not to be outdone, the Technical Trainers Training Resource Centre (TTTRC) Fab Lab showcased a range of innovative solutions, including a smart stick, head torch, and wrist device, each equipped with sensors to aid the visually impaired in navigating their surroundings. Through auditory cues, these devices offer a newfound sense of awareness, empowering users to detect obstacles with ease.
Beyond assistive devices, the Fab Fest also witnessed the emergence of groundbreaking projects in other realms of technology. Notably, four Class IX students from The Royal Academy unveiled a prototype Radio telescope, poised to revolutionize the study of celestial bodies by detecting radiation from stars. With plans to enhance its capabilities and share it with fellow educational institutions, their innovation promises to inspire future astronomers.
Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk from the Royal Academy unveiled a remarkable robotic arm, capable of precision movements guided by a joystick and sensors. His dedication to refining the design underscores the collaborative nature of innovation, where human ingenuity harmonizes with technological advancement.
As the curtains draw on this year’s Fab Fest, the legacy of these groundbreaking projects endures as a testament to the power of technology in fostering inclusivity and empowerment. With each invention, a new door opens, offering individuals with disabilities the keys to unlock their full potential in a world brimming with possibilities.
