PABI: Developing a New Robotic Platform for Autism Therapy

Autism Spectrum Disorder affects many children across the world. Through the use of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy, improvements in behavior and social outcomes have been observed. We have developed a new, robust, and durable research platform designed to interact with children through basic ABA therapy in order to test the effectiveness of robots in autism therapy. This platform is able to log therapy sessions while interacting with the child in an innovative way through multiple degrees of freedom. The platform is also designed to be expandable by future researchers with the ability to integrate both additional actuators and sensors. Lastly, the entire structure is modular in its construction, meaning entire modules can be removed and added in the future with minimal effort

THE PAPER BLOCK PROJECT: IMPROVING THE DESIGN AND IDENTIFYING MARKET OPPORTUNITIES FOR A SUSTAINABLE COOKING FUEL IN KATUTURA, NAMIBIA

Our project advanced the uptake of a sustainable firewood alternative in the informal settlements of Katutura, Namibia. The small business enterprise of a burnable paper block will reduce unemployment and combat desertification. We worked with Men on the Side of the Road (MSR) to improve upon the paper block’s performance and created a new business model to promote its use. We conducted interviews with the local community exploring the current domestic fuel use, tested old and new versions of the paper block, and determined how it could best be brought to market. We created a new block design with improved burning capabilities, trained local MSR members in its production, and developed a viable community business model