Produção de recurso de Tecnologia Assistiva em laboratório público de fabricação digital

Abstract

3D printing technology has been shown to be one of the most promising in the field of assistive technology. However, it is still not widely used by the general population due to difficulties in accessing equipment and a lack of technical knowledge to handle them. The present study aimed to investigate the use of 3D printers in assistive technology in a public network of digital fabrication laboratories (fab labs) located in the city of São Paulo. The research involved one of the authors in collecting data from on-site experiences, as well as interviews with laboratory technicians to understand their perception of the network's role in assistive technology. The results obtained indicate the viability of producing a functional product at low cost using the support and resources of the network. The use of a ready-made model available on an open source site makes this production process even more accessible. In addition, the network's laboratories are widely accessible, distributed in easily accessible locations, and contain clear and objective information on how to use them on their official website. It was concluded that these spaces are relevant as facilitators in the production of assistive devices and promoters of inclusion.