San Diego State University Engineering Students Build Assistive Technologies for Veterans with Paralysis and Limited Mobility
At the 2025 Senior Design Day hosted by San Diego State University (SDSU), two standout projects emerged that exemplified engineering ingenuity with a mission to serve those who’ve served.
The first project, led by SDSU mechanical engineering students Cristi Salgado, Fernando Juarez, Omar Krichati, and Max Brown, focused on restoring the joy and independence of fishing. Designed for veterans with incomplete quadriplegia, the fully automated fishing system enables casting and reeling at the push of a button. With components engineered for wheelchair compatibility and a control panel operable by users with minimal dexterity, the system uses an electric clutch and stepper motor to cast the line and a yellow-button interface for variable-speed reeling. The project received high praise for its usability and thoughtful design, thanks in part to guidance from SDSU professor Scott Shaffar and advisors from Craig Hospital and the River Deep Foundation.
The second project, titled Dice Heroes, was created by students Cayla Ballard, Severen Brown, Isaac Rodriguez, Maxx Pastore, and Jennifer Aguirre. Their device offers a fun, accessible solution for disabled veterans who want to play dice-based games. The team developed a dice roller that loads, shakes, and rolls dice using a head switch push button—allowing individuals with quadriplegia or limited upper body mobility to participate in tabletop games without external assistance. The device promotes social connection and independence, helping veterans engage in leisure activities with family and friends. As with the fishing project, Dice Heroes was supported by Dr. Shaffar.
Both teams walked away from Senior Design Day with more than just technical experience—they gained a deeper appreciation for human-centered design and the impact of assistive technologies. QL Plus is proud to support these innovations and looks forward to continued collaboration with SDSU in bringing life-changing solutions to veterans and first responders.
