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Cybathlon 2020: A Global Championship Elevating Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities, (from page 20220626.)

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Summary

The Cybathlon 2020, held on May 2-3 in Zurich, is a unique championship featuring over 90 international teams comprising individuals with disabilities utilizing advanced assistive technologies. This year’s event includes six disciplines designed to mimic everyday challenges, such as tying shoelaces and opening doors, encouraging innovation in practical assistive devices. The competition promotes global collaboration, with participants from diverse countries including the UK, USA, and South Africa. Notably, Swiss teams represent all six disciplines, showcasing local advancements in assistive technology. The Cybathlon’s goal is to enhance the usability of assistive devices for better societal participation, reflecting a commitment to social relevance and technological progress.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Global Participation in Assistive Technology Competitions Increased participation from diverse countries in assistive technology competitions. Shift from local to global participation in assistive technology development. More inclusive global competitions that foster innovation in assistive technology. Growing awareness and need for assistive devices in various regions worldwide. 4
Advancements in Everyday Assistive Technology Focus on creating practical and usable assistive devices for daily challenges. Transition from complex to practical assistive technologies suitable for everyday use. Widespread availability of user-friendly assistive devices improving daily life for individuals with disabilities. User-centered design driven by feedback from individuals with disabilities. 5
Interdisciplinary Collaboration Collaboration among universities, industry, and NGOs to innovate assistive technologies. Increased collaboration across sectors to enhance assistive device development. More effective and diverse solutions emerging from collaborative efforts in technology. Recognition of the importance of diverse expertise in tackling complex challenges. 4
Focus on User Experience in Competitions Competitions designed around practical challenges faced by people with disabilities. Emphasis on real-life applicability and user experience in assistive tech competitions. Competitions that prioritize user experience will drive better designs in assistive technology. Desire for assistive devices to integrate seamlessly into users’ daily lives. 5
Technological Innovation in Mobility Devices Emergence of semi-autonomous and smart mobility devices like eye-controlled wheelchairs. Shift from traditional mobility aids to smart, tech-driven solutions. Smart mobility devices will become commonplace, enhancing independence for users. Technological advancements in AI and robotics improving device functionality. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Accessibility of Assistive Technologies Despite advances, many assistive devices are still not suitable for everyday use, limiting participation of people with disabilities in society. 5
Global Disparity in Participation While the event showcases global participation, there may still be disparities in access to technology and resources among different regions, particularly in developing countries. 4
Technological Dependence Increased use of advanced assistive technologies can lead to over-dependence, raising concerns about the implications for autonomy and personal agency of users. 4
Data Privacy in Biometric Devices The use of devices that utilize brain-computer interface technology raises concerns over data privacy and the security of sensitive personal information. 4
Sustainability of Device Development Rapid development of technology may overlook environmental impacts and sustainability practices, leading to ecological concerns. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Global Collaboration in Disability Technology International teams from various sectors collaborate to enhance assistive technologies for individuals with disabilities. 5
Focus on Practicality in Assistive Devices Emphasis on developing assistive devices that are useful for everyday tasks rather than overly complex solutions. 5
Integration of User Feedback in Design Competitions like Cybathlon incorporate user input to refine the design of assistive devices, ensuring they meet real-world needs. 4
Increased Visibility and Awareness for Disabilities Events such as the Cybathlon raise public awareness and interest in the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. 5
Innovative Competition Formats The Cybathlon introduces new challenges to reflect real-life scenarios faced by individuals with disabilities. 4
Technological Advancement in Rehabilitation The event showcases advancements in technology aimed at improving rehabilitation and mobility for people with disabilities. 5
Social Media Engagement and Community Building Utilizing social media to engage the community and promote discussions around assistive technology and disability. 3

Technologies

description relevancy src
Technology enabling direct communication between the brain and external devices, facilitating control of prosthetics or computers via thought. 5 012da0fd0aa5dad27caf91e3bd4b238f
Technique using electrical impulses to activate muscles in individuals with disabilities, improving mobility and muscle function. 5 012da0fd0aa5dad27caf91e3bd4b238f
Advanced prosthetic limbs that are powered and controlled by the user, enhancing functionality and usability in daily tasks. 5 012da0fd0aa5dad27caf91e3bd4b238f
Wearable robotic devices that assist individuals with mobility impairments, allowing them to walk or perform tasks more easily. 5 012da0fd0aa5dad27caf91e3bd4b238f
Wheelchairs that can be navigated using eye movements or other non-traditional inputs, increasing independence for users. 4 012da0fd0aa5dad27caf91e3bd4b238f
Technology providing tactile feedback to users, enhancing their ability to identify objects through touch, especially in prosthetics. 4 012da0fd0aa5dad27caf91e3bd4b238f

Issues

name description relevancy
Advancements in Assistive Technology The push for more functional and accessible assistive devices for individuals with disabilities is gaining momentum. 4
Global Collaboration in Disability Solutions International participation in events like Cybathlon fosters collaboration among universities, industry, and NGOs to innovate for disabilities. 5
Integration of Technology in Daily Life Challenges at the Cybathlon highlight the importance of integrating technology into everyday tasks for people with disabilities. 4
Raising Awareness for Disability Sports Events like the Cybathlon promote visibility and awareness for the capabilities of individuals with disabilities through competitive sports. 3
Evolving Competition Formats for Inclusivity The adaptation of competition formats to include more diverse and inclusive technologies and participants is a growing trend. 4
Haptic and Sensory Technology in Prosthetics The use of haptic feedback and sensory technology in assistive devices is emerging as a crucial area of development. 4