Innovative toy for early autism detection inspires enthusiasm in Münster!

Innovative toy for early autism detection inspires enthusiasm in Münster!

Elham Iravani, a doctoral student at the University of Wuppertal, has developed an innovative concept for the early diagnosis of autism. Their goal is to recognize autism in a playful, simple and cost-effective way from the age of two. To date, this developmental disorder has usually only been diagnosed between the ages of five and six. Iravani presented her concept at the “Falling Walls Lab” in Münster, organized by the University of Münster was aligned.

The concept includes a toy that is equipped with sensors and records children's pressure and movements. This identifies patterns and irregularities that may indicate autism. Iravani received an award for her outstanding presentation and qualified for the “Falling Walls Science Summit” in Berlin in November. The Rector of the University of Münster, Prof. Dr. Johannes Wessels, handed her the symbolic ticket to Berlin.

Successes and other participants

The jury, consisting of scientists from the University of Münster, evaluated the participating ideas in terms of innovation, relevance and presentation. Yannis Bermig took second place with his start-up “Democracy Hub”, which aims to digitize democratic processes. Asieh Baker took third place with her app “RESQUE,” which is designed to provide support to medical staff in acute situations.

The “Falling Walls Lab Münster” was one of three nationwide preliminary rounds for the “Falling Walls Science Summit”. This global event takes place every year around November 9th in Berlin and brings together participants from different areas. This year, 84 universities worldwide hosted a Falling Walls Lab, resulting in nearly 2,700 applications.

A network of innovative minds

The international pitch competition “Falling Walls Lab” is aimed at students and young professionals who present their groundbreaking ideas in just three minutes. Renowned academic institutions around the world organize their own laboratories to showcase the quality and diversity of innovative minds. Participants from all over the world share their research results and connect different disciplines and cultures.

A total of 100 finalists will qualify for the global final in Berlin. The event is supported by a strong network of partners from science, diplomacy and academia. Important sponsors are the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), which finances 30 of the 81 international labs, as well as the Federal Ministry of Education, Research and Innovation and other well-known partners. This support helps promote innovation and connect creative minds.

The winners of the regional labs compete in Berlin for the title “Breakthrough of the Year”. The summit has been hosted by the since 2009 Falling Walls Foundation organized and has established itself as an important platform for innovative approaches.