Cornell Assistive Technologies Project Team

Our mission

The mission of the Cornell Assistive Technologies Project Team (previously The Big Red Adaptive Play & Design Initiative) is to champion inclusivity by developing assistive technologies for people with disabilities and to raise awareness about the impact of adapted solutions and assistive technologies among youths and communities in Ithaca and beyond. The organization's goals are to create an inclusive club dedicated to making assistive technologies more widely available to those who need them most in our local community. Secondary goals include learning and teaching how to make different types of toys switch-accessible, and hosting joint events with other clubs/organizations in the Cornell and Ithaca communities to generate interest and spread awareness.

With your ongoing support, we can continue funding impactful projects we have built for the local Ithaca community and showcase them at educational/assistive technology-focused conferences!

Here are some of our ongoing projects: 

Our work

Engineering

The Engineering team for Cornell Assistive Technologies focuses on researching new adaptive technologies aside from toy adaption. In particular, the team is dedicated to innovating assistive technology solutions based on community needs. The Engineering committee also designs adaptive switches using 3D computer-aided design software and utilizes 3D printing technologies to manufacture custom solutions. 

Tactile Coding Blocks

Developing a tool and syllabus to teach blind and low-vision students the basics of computer programming through a physical coding block.

Bluetooth Urinary Drainage Bag Clamp

A device that helps paralyzed power wheelchair users independently empty their urinary drainage bags.

Sensory Overload Wearable

A small wearable device that detects early symptoms of sensory overload, such as those experienced by a user with a sensory processing disorder, and reacts accordingly to reduce unwanted side effects.

Smart Wheelchair

An electric wheelchair adapted to work with two Brain Computer Interfaces, the Electroencephalogram (EEG) and Electromyography (EMG). Allowing the user to control the wheelchair with their mind or muscles.

Education & Advocacy

The Education & Advocacy team is focused on fostering new partnerships within the community—particularly with K-12 schools and external companies. The team is dedicated to expanding awareness of the need for adaptive play and STEM education, especially in underserved communities.

STEM Education

The Education & Advocacy team is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of engineers by teaching basic engineering principles and promoting diversity in STEM spaces. 

Community Events

By collaborating with partners in the Ithaca community, the E&A team raises awareness of the need for accessible technology.

Business

The Business team for Cornell Assistive Technologies focuses on the organization's logistical processes. The current focus is on securing corporate sponsorships, finance & budgeting, and product management initiatives. By planning events on-campus and beyond, conducting professional outreach, and promoting brand awareness on social media, we ensure our assistive technology projects get the visibility they deserve. The team is committed to fostering both a strong internal team culture and strong external presence, spreading the message of disability justice and Cornell Assistive Technologies through PR and management.

As a registered student organization, we are committed to equal access to all of our programs and do not discriminate based on any protected identity status.