History
The Beginning
CanAssist, formerly known as the University of Victoria Assistive Technology Team (UVATT), was established in September of 1999. We started with one single project, to develop a finger switch for a young boy who was in a near drowning accident. Since then, we have undertaken over 140 projects and have distributed our technology and devices to users around the world.
The Need
CanAssist recognizes that many assistive devices need to be customized and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. However, because of the limited market and the sometimes highly complex challenges, such devices are often not available. Therefore, CanAssist was formed to help address this need and to become a viable resource for the community.
Our Location
CanAssist is based on the campus of the University of Victoria. We believe that the university is ideally equipped to provide an innovative, integrative and highly creative approach to the field of assistive technology. The university provides our engineers with state-of-the-art resources, allowing them to have laboratories, machine shops and the latest types of equipment and machinery at their fingertips. Furthermore, being at the university has allowed us to draw upon the expertise of the faculty and staff while tapping into the creativity and enthusiasm of students.
Our Team
The CanAssist team is highly interdisciplinary and includes staff, faculty and students representing a wide spectrum of disciplines and skills across campus. For example, we have members from the engineering faculty (mechanical, computer science and electrical) and from the Psychology, Music, Biology, Mathematics and Physics departments.
Clearly, one of the most critical and unique components of our program has been the extensive student involvement. Thousands of students have participated since our inception. Some in a purely voluntary capacity, and others to obtain course credits. In addition, over 20 co-op students have been hired to work on CanAssist projects.
Our Projects
All of our projects are taken on in response to requests/suggestions from people across the province, as well as across the country and around the world. We take on projects that range from the relatively simple (for example, adjustable umbrella holders for wheelchairs or walkers) to the highly complex (eye-tracking communication system).
While undertaking small projects, CanAssist also has a longer-term, but complementary, research program in the following areas: Communication & Control, Mobility & Motion, Human-Computer Interactions, and Online Learning & Community Building.
Awards
CanAssist has received extensive recognition for its work. Awards that the CanAssist team has received include:
- Lieutenant Governor's Award for Innovative Technology
- CUFA/BC Distinguished Academic Award (presented to our Director, Dr. Nigel Livingston)
- ViaTec Community Involvement Award
- Victoria Community Leadership Award