Tel Aviv Make-a-Thon brings innovators together to improve the lives of persons with disabilities

OHMYGOSSIP — Last week, a group of Israeli innovators joined with people from around the world in Tel Aviv for a good cause. Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM) is an annual invention marathon that encourages engineers, physical therapists, creatives, and anyone with a good idea to work together with and improve the lives of persons with disabilities.

Held this year on March 17-19, the gathering focused on practical ways help persons with disabilities be more active and independent by working directly to address challengings faced by persons with disabilities daily.

This year, some innovators partnered with Sefi Udi. Udi is paralyzed and needed help figuring out how to better turn pages in a book.

Razi Cohen had another problem to solve at the event. The wheelchair user needed help getting from one wheelchair to another.

During the three day period, participants have 24 hour access to the design labs and plenty of food to keep them fueled.

They also had some pretty cool tools to work with to make their ideas a reality including: 3D printers, laser-cutting machines, and computer-operated milling devices.

After the three day work and think fest, the participants also had some pretty impressive prototypes to show off during a closing event.

One team worked to developed a way to turn tedious physical therapy into a game, allowing users to build muscle strength and range of movement while having fun.

Another prototype handled a very modern problem of people who use crutches. Combining a cell phone with a crutch, the team was able to give crutch users better access to their phone and one that would not cause pain.

Udi also got his wish. Among the successful prototypes was a device that allowed persons who are paralyzed to turn a book on their own.

While many of the prototypes are far from market ready, the Ruderman foundation, who helped to sponsor the event said that they hoped that the event would encourage the production of affordable assistive aids that help improve the lives of persons with disabilities and help them feel more included in everyday life.