On Friday, October 27th, 20 TELUS employees will work together to build 20 open-source assistive technology devices called Lipsyncs (new window). The LipSync enables a person who has no use of their hands to use a touchscreen device. It is a mouth-operated joystick that allows a person to control an onscreen cursor with minimal movement. They can click and tap by sipping and puffing on the mouthpiece.

Teams will be supplied with the tools, components, parts and instructions. They will be supported by the Neil Squire Society and Makers Making Change (new window).

We will also have the pleasure of meeting The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, again, as he talks about the role of makers of assistive technology in creating opportunities for people with disabilities. He had previously met us as part of our travels for the TOM:Calgary Makeathon (new window) in August earlier this year.

You are invited to join in this Buildathon! Click here (new window) to reserve a ticket.

When: October 27th, 9:00am – 4:00pm
Where: TELUS, 2912 Memorial Dr SE, Floor 1, Calgary, Alberta T2A 6R1 (new window)

The LipSync is an open-source hardware project funded by Google (new window), using 3D printed parts, an Arduino Mini board, and other common parts that can be soldered to a circuit board and built in a day. This device opens possibilities for the user to work from a computer, watch films, play games and better connect with family and friends.

Curious about what goes on at a Buildathon? Here’s a short news segment that shows a previous event held in a high school earlier this year.