Each year, the RESNA Developer Showcase and Student Design Challenge shine a spotlight on the most promising innovations in rehabilitation and assistive technology. These events bring together engineers, clinicians, designers, and entrepreneurs to share ideas that have the potential to transform lives.
The IMPACT Award is presented by the IMPACT Center to recognize outstanding entries that demonstrate exceptional potential for real-world technology transfer — turning creative concepts into accessible, market-ready solutions. This year’s winners are paving the way for more inclusive, effective, and affordable technologies.
Hand Assessment Tool (HAT) – Student Design Challenge IMPACT Award Runner-Up
Developed by an interdisciplinary team from the University of California, Berkeley, the Hand Assessment Tool is an innovative, camera-based system that automates hand range of motion assessments in under 90 seconds. By providing a low-cost, user-friendly alternative to traditional goniometry, HAT has the potential to streamline clinical workflows, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and expand access to hand therapy.
Listen to the ImpacTech Episode →
DOOR-E – Developer Showcase IMPACT Award Winner
DOOR-E reimagines door access for people with disabilities by integrating smart technology with intuitive, inclusive design. Built to improve both independence and security, the system adapts to multiple accessibility needs while remaining easy to install and operate. DOOR-E stood out at the RESNA Developer Showcase for its thoughtful engineering and clear path to real-world implementation. [Coming Soon on ImpacTech]
TREAT-MATE – Student Design Challenge IMPACT Award Winner
TREAT-MATE is a smart medication dispenser designed to simplify treatment adherence for individuals with chronic conditions or cognitive impairments. The device combines secure medication storage with timely alerts, dosing guidance, and caregiver integration to ensure accuracy and reduce stress for both patients and families. Judges praised TREAT-MATE for its market readiness and strong potential to improve quality of life.[Coming Soon on ImpacTech]
Why These Wins Matter
These projects embody the mission of the IMPACT Center: to accelerate the translation of assistive and rehabilitation technologies from idea to market. By recognizing these innovators with the IMPACT Award, we aim to celebrate not only their technical achievements but also their dedication to making meaningful, measurable impact in people’s lives.