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Generosity can often have positive and far-reaching effects, and this has never been more clearly demonstrated than by the indelible impact of Jon C. Taenzer’s legacy, as seen through the Jon C. Taenzer Memorial Fund, on communities worldwide.

Established by the IEEE Foundation in 2019, this fund was made possible by a generous bequest from the Estate of Jon C. Taenzer. A distinguished research engineer, senior scientist, electronics engineering inventor/patent holder, author, IEEE Life Senior Member, and a Forever Generous IEEE Goldsmith Legacy League member, Taenzer passed away in 2019. His generous planned gift was designated to support engineers in developing countries and to foster breakthroughs in aids for individuals with disabilities.

Since 2019, the Jon C. Taenzer Memorial Fund has provided support for 20 grants, totaling over $1.1M in funding, and has positively impacted more than 20,500 individuals. Through its recently funded projects and ongoing investment in service learning, the fund continues to make a difference. A recent example is a project funded through the EPICS in IEEE Access and Abilities program, which involved the development of a customizable 3D-printed prosthetic arm in Costa Rica.

Customizable 3D-Printed Prosthetic Arm – Costa Rica

A US$5,144 grant from EPICS in IEEE and the Jon C. Taenzer Memorial Fund made this project possible.

This project involves the development of a customizable 3D-printed prosthetic arm. The goal of this initiative was to create an affordable, functional prosthetic solution that could be tailored to the specific needs of individuals requiring upper limb assistance.

This ambitious project brought together a multidisciplinary team of students who gained hands-on experience in diverse areas, including 3D modeling, electromyography (EMG) signal processing, hardware integration, and embedded systems. As they worked through the project, they acquired valuable skills in debugging circuits, utilizing 3D design software, and navigating the complexities of prosthetic development.

The development process was highly iterative, with the team learning to adapt to challenges such as finger rigidity and component fit. Collaborative problem-solving played a crucial role, especially when addressing issues with EMG sensors, proximity sensors, and the integration of audio commands. Knowledge sharing and team discussions were key to overcoming these technical hurdles.

Despite facing significant challenges, such as team turnover, material procurement issues, integration difficulties, and delays in 3D printing, the team demonstrated resilience and a strong learning mindset.

Integrating EMG sensors, audio commands, and motor control posed technical and logistical challenges, and reliance on external 3D printing services led to project delays. Nevertheless, the team’s perseverance resulted in the development of promising prototypes, marking a significant milestone in their journey of innovation and problem-solving.

Learn how you, too, can leave a bequest to the IEEE Foundation to make a lasting impact at https://www.ieeefoundation.org/how-to-give/tomorrow/trust-provision.

Newly Approved EPICS in IEEE Projects Supported by the Jon C. Taenzer Memorial Fund

• Anvithakriya – A Board for Children with Autism, India
• Portable Retinal Disease Diagnostic Device for Improved Rural Eye Care Access, India
• STEDI: Enhancing Pre-Diagnostic Screening Quality at Elderly Health Posts, Indonesia
• Smart Knee Cap and Knee Brace with Mobile App for Elderly Rehabilitation, India

“The IEEE Foundation is grateful to Jon C. Taenzer for leaving us such a generous bequest and giving us the resources to turn ideas into action, so many diverse and impactful IEEE initiatives are being deployed across the globe,” said Karen Galuchie, IEEE Foundation Executive Director.