In an era of rapid technological advancement and increasing emphasis on social impact, the Invent Oregon 2024 competition showcased a strong commitment to service-driven projects that are transforming healthcare.
One of the standout innovations and first-place winner of this year's competition was EaziStep from OSHU! Created by Joshua Vanderpool and Ildar Fazulyanov, EaziStep redefines mobility aids with its innovative product that combines the functions of a knee scooter and a hands-free crutch. This versatile medical device offers a range of mobility options for individuals recovering from foot and ankle injuries. Its unique design provides users with greater flexibility and comfort, enabling them to navigate daily activities more easily. Vanderpool and Fazulyanov's work is a significant advancement in the medical device field, offering a practical solution for patients seeking to maintain their independence during recovery. EaziStep took home the top prize of $10,000!
Representing Willamette University, Lift Lite Chair, created by Logan Heagerty took home second place at this year’s Invent Oregon Finals. This lightweight mobile mechanical chair blends advanced mechanical design with user-friendly functionality. Their unique mechanical functionality of the chair allows for a lighter and more mobile space, due to it not anchored by the heavy parts to make it electronic or having to plug it into a wall. Designed to enhance the lives of individuals who struggle with standing or sitting without assistance, the Lift Lite Chair offers a practical and dignified solution. The concept is simple yet powerful: provide a portable and easy-to-use device that empowers users with greater mobility and independence. This thoughtful design not only adds convenience but also significantly improves the quality of life for its users, making daily tasks more manageable.
Solo Solutions, led by Edgar Martinez Guzman and Nathan Matthews, developed an innovative remote control device for mobility scooters. This project aims to simplify the process of attaching mobility scooters to car lifts. By automating this task, Solo Solutions' device greatly enhances convenience and independence for individuals with mobility challenges. The system's intuitive design allows users to easily secure their scooters to vehicles while they are already seated in the driver’s seat, providing a seamless experience that improves daily life. This project showcases the potential of technology to address the practical needs of people with mobility issues, making everyday tasks more accessible. The Invent Oregon 2024 competition highlighted the remarkable potential of student entrepreneurs to drive positive change in healthcare. This year's event featured a range of service-driven projects, each addressing real-world challenges with innovative solutions. From improving mobility and independence to enhancing recovery experiences, these projects demonstrate the power of empathy-driven design in creating impactful healthcare technologies.
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