Title

AWS re:Invent 2022 - Accessibility sparks innovation: Democratize access to hearing devices (PRT282)

Summary

Darrell Adams from Intel and Jason Solomier from 3DP4Me discussed the importance of accessibility and how it can drive innovation, particularly in the context of hearing devices.
Darrell highlighted the significant portion of the global population with disabilities and the opportunities that arise when technology reduces barriers for these individuals, such as improved access to education and employment.
Intel's focus on inclusive design and the five technology superpowers (ubiquitous computing, pervasive connectivity, cloud to edge infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and sensing) was emphasized as a means to create better and more accessible products.
Jason shared the story of 3DP4Me's efforts in Jordan to provide affordable and accessible hearing aids to children in refugee camps, leveraging new technologies like the Lantos 3D ear scanning technology.
Marina from Lantos Technologies demonstrated the ear scanning process, which creates a 3D model of the ear for custom hearing aid production.
The collaboration between Intel, Accenture, and 3DP4Me aims to provide 50 children with hearing aids and includes a holistic approach with speech therapy and training for local staff.
The potential use of AI to streamline the process from ear scanning to 3D printing was discussed, as well as the need for training more audiologists in developing countries.

The global disability community represents not only a significant market opportunity but also a chance to make a profound social impact by using technology to create inclusive environments.
Inclusive design from the outset can prevent the need for costly retrofits and remediation, leading to better products and experiences for all users.
Intel's five technology superpowers can be leveraged to create accessible technologies that cater to various disabilities, potentially transforming the way people with disabilities interact with technology and each other.
3DP4Me's innovative approach to hearing aid production using 3D printing and digital scanning can significantly reduce costs and increase the speed of production, making hearing aids more accessible to underserved populations.
The use of AWS cloud services in 3DP4Me's custom software demonstrates the potential for cloud computing to support healthcare initiatives in resource-limited settings.
The shortage of audiologists in developing regions is a significant barrier to scaling up hearing healthcare services, indicating a need for investment in training and education.
The integration of AI in the process of creating hearing aids could further improve efficiency and reduce costs, making the technology even more accessible to those in need.