Students 3D Print Hope for Disabilities

University of Alberta students are leveraging 3D printing technology to create vital assistive devices, offering them free of charge to individuals with disabilities. Occupational therapy student Vianna Aiello has pioneered this initiative, 3D printing over 100 devices that have been distributed to clinics nationwide. Her personal experience assisting her grandmother inspired the creation of adaptive tools like tap extenders and aids for opening bottles, significantly improving her grandmother's independence.

Aiello expanded this effort by founding the multidisciplinary club 'Layer by Layer.' This club brings together students from various fields, including engineering, computer science, and kinesiology, alongside occupational therapy peers. Together, they collaborate with individuals to understand specific challenges and develop tailored devices, helping them engage in important daily activities. The club actively accepts requests for custom devices via email and social media.