The Original Canadian AT Conference Returns
The Original Canadian AT Conference Returns
NOAT 2026: educATe and integrATe
NOAT 2026: educATe and integrATe
February 4th, 5th, and 6th, 2026 - 9am-3pm (EST)
Embedded Files
3D Printed Keyguards The Holy Grail of DIY Assistive Technology
3D Printed Keyguards The Holy Grail of DIY Assistive Technology
Presenter: Ken Hackbarth
Presenter: Ken Hackbarth
Scheduled: Thursday, February 5, 2026 -1410-1455 Eastern
Scheduled: Thursday, February 5, 2026 -1410-1455 Eastern
Explore how 3D-printed keyguards cut costs by up to 99%, support high customization, and improve user acceptance. Gain practical strategies to justify a printer purchase and expand into other affordable DIY assistive technologies.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
3D-printed keyguards can achieve cost savings of up to 99% compared to commercial options, and how those savings can justify investment in printers, materials, and other resources.
Customization and personalization of 3D-printed keyguards improve usability, user acceptance, and reduce the risk of device abandonment.
Free online design tools can be used to create, modify, and rapidly prototype keyguards tailored to specific devices and motor profiles.
Ken Hackbarth is the president and founder of Volksswitch LLC, an organization devoted to democratizing assistive technology by leveraging the power and promise of 3D printing. Prior to his current position, he worked for almost three decades as a systems architect for AT&T Bell Laboratories and its subsequent divestitures. He has a Master of Science in Evolutionary Biology from the University of Arizona, a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from the University of Arizona, and a Master of Education in Special Education, with a concentration in assistive technology, from Bowling Green State University.
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