By Laura Kuntz
Living life to the fullest is something everyone strives for, but for those with a physical disability, achieving dreams often can be impeded by a lack of adaptive tools. However, there is an organization whose vision “is a world in which technology and innovation allow every person access to affordable solutions for his or her needs.”
TOM Global has a worldwide network that creates affordable solutions for the challenges of people living with special needs and then makes them available online for everyone.
For those searching for the right product, device or resource, cost and access often stand between a need and a solution,” says Michelle Levy, director of global design strategy for TOM Global. “That’s the gap TOM works to close: connecting makers and engineers to people with disabilities, to collaborate on making low-cost or no-cost solutions that meet people where they are.”
Finding A Community Need
TOM Global learns of needs either through community partners such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers and organizations, or through individuals, called “Need Knowers,” who have filled out a form on its website.
Once a need has been submitted, TOM Global uses a variety of different avenues to create a solution for the need. This might be accomplished through a Makeathon, an Innovation Challenge or Developer Groups. TOM Global works with universities, non-profits and other organizations to develop the solutions. Volunteers include college students, engineers, designers and developers who create concepts, working models, prototypes and products that meet the need.
Create a Solution
All the projects, regardless of the stage of their development, are uploaded to TOM Online Marketplace so they can be easily accessed and downloaded for production, customization or further development by other makers or communities.
The solutions are always open source (meaning plans are available to all at no cost), have meticulously documented designs so that they can be replicated, and most often can be made using basic tools and technologies (such as 3D printers and easily available materials). This allows anyone, regardless of where they live, to access the solutions they need.
There are many products currently available for download, including those for daily living needs such as a 3D toddler mobility trainer, a utensil holder, a book holder and a 3D accessible dishwasher handle. There are also more specialized leisure, sports and hobby solutions such as a violin prosthesis, a basketball prosthesis and an adaptive surfboard. There are currently over 1,200 items listed in the marketplace ranging from concepts to finished products — and TOM Global is always accepting applications for new needs.
If a solution exists, you have the option of either downloading the plans to make the product or working with a “makerspace” to have the product created. In many cases, the products can be made using 3D printers, which are available and free to use at many public libraries across Ohio (the user may be responsible for purchasing the necessary supplies for the printer).
Opportunities for Innovation
If there isn’t a product listed, there is a link to submit a new challenge, in which anyone can ask for assistance from the TOM Global community to create the solution. With new requests, the portfolio of products continues to grow and provides an ever-expanding range of solutions to better the lives of those living with special needs.
In addition to supporting the development of these solutions, TOM Global fosters innovation for the special needs community by running university clubs, workshops, educational programs and a fellowship program to provide opportunities for education and collaboration among students and professionals who are dedicated to improving lives.
“There’s never been a better moment for this work,” Levy says. “Prototyping tools and technologies are more accessible than ever, and we see more engineers, designers and hobbyists looking to apply their skills toward helping real people who face real challenges.”
Visit tomglobal.org and search or browse the marketplace to see if there is a product that fits your needs.