To promote universal design concepts for assistive devices and enhance their user-friendliness, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI), Ministry of Economic Affairs, organized the "Universal Design Competition for Assistive Devices for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities" and the "Campaign on User-Friendly Commercial Assistive Devices for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities." The awards ceremony was held on November 18 and concluded successfully. The research, development, and innovative designs presented by participants have injected new momentum and creativity into the development of Taiwan's assistive device industry.

Universal Design Competition: Fostering Innovative and Inclusive Solutions
The Universal Design Competition highlights creativity and ingenuity, encouraging designs that feature universal accessibility with no barriers between different user groups. This year, the competition received enthusiastic participation from across sectors, with a total of 132 submissions. Following rigorous professional evaluation, the jury selected Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards, along with five Merit Awards and twelve Finalists.

Gold Award: A uniquely designed box lid that enables individuals with intellectual disabilities to independently complete box-sealing tasks.

Silver: A modular system that allows wheelchair users to revisit and enjoy dancing activities they once loved.

Bronze Award: An externally powered mobility assistive device that helps reduce the caregiving burden for personnel assisting individuals with physical disabilities.

Campaign on User-Friendly Commercial Assistive Devices: Highlighting Practical Everyday Applications
The "Campaign on User-Friendly Commercial Assistive Devices"  emphasizes the practicality and functionality of commercially available products. This year, 23 commercial products participated, and 10 outstanding products were selected. These awards-winning products support greater autonomy and convenience for older adults, persons with mobility impairments, and their caregivers. The campaign also aims to encourage the industry to incorporate universal design principles, enhance the use of innovative technologies, and demonstrate their commitment to creating a more inclusive environment.

Meeting the Needs of a Super-Aged Society: Advancing Toward a Truly Barrier-Free Future
BSMI further noted that Taiwan has entered a super-aged society, and demand for assistive products is expected to continue increasing. Through these design competitions and campaigns, BSMI aims to enhance the universality and user-friendliness of assistive products, thereby improving users' quality of life and fostering a truly barrier-free living environment. BSMI will continue to support related matchmaking and exhibition activities, in hopes that more award-winning works will successfully enter the market.

For the full list of award-winning works and selected user-friendly products, please visit: https://reurl.cc/z67Dde.

Responsible Division: Inspection Technology Division
Contact Person: Yang, Li-Yuan, Deputy Director
Tel. (O): +886-2343-1700#3311
Email:  [email protected]