Technology and Disability - Volume 5, issue 2

Authors: Mahoney, Richard M.

Article Type: Introduction

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5201

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 121-123, 1996

Authors: Stanger, Carol A. | Cawley, Michael F.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Assistive robotic technology can be used to augment manipulation tasks for individuals who have little to no use of upper extremities. By understanding user demographics and the market potential for such a device, an assistive robot can be designed and marketed to optimally meet the needs of the targeted audience. Consequently, the demographics and characteristics of a dozen disabling conditions often associated with minimal use of upper limbs are described. The conditions included are: cerebral palsy, arthrogryposis, spinal muscular atrophy, muscular dystrophies, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, poliomyelitis, spinal cord injury, head injury, and locked-in …syndrome. An estimate of the number of people with these conditions who also have minimal use of upper limbs was calculated to be at least 150 000. The market potential is presumably lower than this number given the medical needs and financial constraints of these populations. While the market potential is small, the independence and quality of life made available by way of robotic technology is potentially enormous. Show more

Keywords: Robotics, Rehabilitation, Demographics

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5202

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 125-137, 1996

Authors: Howell, Richard | Martz, Stacy | Stanger, Carol

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A cooperative learning environment with disabled and non-disabled student research teams used a robotic system to investigate phenomena in a manipulation-rich science education environment. The setting was an .inclusive third/fourth grade classroom in a neighborhood school within a large midwestern city. An innovative science education curriculum was developed which emphasized an inquiry-based approach. The research design involved both pre-testing and post-testing of student perfor ance in both pencil-and-paper tests and an actual experimental setting. Results were mixed, with students not performing as well on paper-and-pencil tasks in contrast to excellent performance on a transfer task. The results of social validity …sampling procedures indicated that both students and teachers saw benefits through the use of the robot as a science tool. The implications of the research are discussed in terms of increasing interactions between disabled and non-disabled students and the functionality of the robotic device as an assistive tool. The needs for a future generation of highly capable and flexible robotic tools is discussed and some suggestions are made for the future. Show more

Keywords: Assistive, Robotics, Science Education, Inclusion and Collaboration

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5203

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 139-150, 1996

Authors: Birch, G.E. | Fengler, M. | Gosine, R.G. | Schroeder, K. | Schroeder, M. | Johnson, D.L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper presents the results of a collaborative research project which developed and applied an assessment methodology for determining whether a robotic assistive work device would significantly decrease the number of times an able-bodied co-worker or attendant was required to provide assistance. The assessment methodology developed in this project may be useful for future evaluations of this technology. The results showed that a significant reduction in attendant time per unit of work does occur when using the device. A decrease in productivity, however, also occurred when the device was used. Further investigation of this decrease in productivity and quantitative data …on the cost of disrupting a co-worker is required before any firm conclusion can be made regarding the effectiveness of the device. Show more

Keywords: Robotics, Assistive devices, Rehabilitation, Habilitation, Assessment methodology

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5204

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 151-165, 1996

Authors: Mahoney, Richard M. | Dallaway, John L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A person with a physical disability may posess the mental aptitude to competently and efficiently perform the decision-making aspects of a range of vocational tasks, but may not be employable because of an inability to manipulate the tools and/or product associated with those tasks. A project has been carried out to address this limitation by investigating the use of an interactive automated system to expand job opportunities for people with manipulation disabilities in manufacturing jobs. An outcome of this project is an interactive robotic system that was designed to enable a physically disabled person to perform the job of visual …inspector of hybrid microcircuits. This paper describes details of this interactive robotic system, and the procedures followed in its installation and evaluation. Implementation requirements for the general application of interactive robotic systems are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Assistive robotics, Vocational rehabilitation, Quality assurance, Manipulation disability, Manufacturing jobs

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5205

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 167-176, 1996

Authors: Van der Loos, H.F. Machiel | Leifer, Larry J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In interactive computer controlled systems such as robots history lists store records of user and system events. The history of commands, system states and actions taken by an intelligent robot is important to safety, performance, service and quality assurance. These records are commonly referred to as ‘history lists’. They are an objective account of system operation that can serve the needs of users, analysts, designers, management and regulatory agents. A well-known example of a history list system is the aircraft flight recorder. They are also used in chemical process control and software usability testing. These areas are distinguished by the …high cost of system malfunction and the high value placed on continuous availability. For semi-automated health care systems such as human-service robots in rehabilitation, surgery and patient care, a well-designed history list recorder and analyzer can help ensure safe and effective system operation. However, history list usage is largely unexplored in robotic systems. This paper presents a history list design methodology for interactive robots. The design framework consists of five guidelines, which are defined and discussed. The guidelines are derived from 2 years of experimental history list usage, during which time 3000 h of history list data and 30 h of videotaped robot operation were recorded. The history lists were recorded by a data acquisition system originally designed into the interface of DeVAR, a VA/Stanford-developed, voice-controlled, desktop robot for individuals with physical disabilities. Analysis of the data, using the five guidelines as a framework for discussion, shows how history lists can be a useful tool for designers and operators. Results focus on methods for debugging robot interfaces and developing chronicles of actual use. Show more

Keywords: Event recording, Data logging, User interface design, Assistive technology and robot safety

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5206

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 177-196, 1996

Authors: Rahman, Tariq | Stroud, Sean | Ramanathan, Rungun | Alexander, Michael | Seliktar, Rami | Harwin, William

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: For people with muscular dystrophy or spinal muscular atrophy – conditions characterized by degenerating muscle strength – the option of using a mechanical aid exists. This would allow free arm movement. This paper presents a consumer-based design approach to construction of such an assistive manipulation device and describes the consumer-driven stages in the orthosis design project within the Applied Science and Engineering Laboratories (ASEL). Results are presented from two consumer meetings held during the initial stages of the design. A design principle has been establish.:d and an initial set of prototypes evaluated. These will be used to modify subsequent design …iterations. Show more

Keywords: Rehabilitation, Orthosis, Interface, Consumer, Control

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5207

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 197-203, 1996

Authors: Reinkensmeyer, David J. | Dewald, Julius P.A. | Rymer, W. Zev

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Stroke survivors commonly undergo intensive evaluation of and treatment for impaired movement control for several months after stroke onset. We believe a significant potential exists for robotic devices (or ‘rehabilitators’) that can accurately measure post-stroke movement impairment, and augment or substitute for some manual therapeutic components of traditional physical and occupational therapy techniques. The purpose of this paper is to justify this claim, and to provide a starting framework for engineering and health care professionals interested in the development of rehabilitators. The fundamentals of stroke movement impairment and neurotherapeutic techniques are reviewed with respect to requirements for rehabilitators, and preliminary …engineering designs for rehabilitators are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Robotics, Stroke, Rehabilitation, Movement, Devices

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5208

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 205-215, 1996

Authors: Verburg, Gerbrand | Kwee, Hok | Wisaksana, Andre | Cheetham, Anastasia | van Woerden, Jacobus

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Manus is a wheelchair mounted robotic arm that was designed for people who have significant impairment in function of all limbs. The process of development, user testing, and product modifications is described, with special emphasis on evaluations by consumers, After an evolution of 20 years, Manus is a commercially available product that is now being prescribed for users in The Netherlands and France. Preliminary prescription criteria are presented and a look at the current status of the assistive technology device concludes the paper.

Keywords: Robotics, Wheelchair, Consumer evaluation, Product development, Prescription criteria

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5209

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 217-228, 1996

Authors: Sheredos, Saleem J. | Taylor, Barry | Cobb, Christopher B. | Dann, Edward E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Robots can serve as interactive aids for performing personal and vocational activities and improve the quality of life for persons with severe mobility impairments. A major challenge has been making this technology functional, practical, and affordable. A technology transfer process is presently underway to validate the safety, reliability and effectiveness of the Helping Hand Electro-mechanical Arm. This paper discusses the preliminary clinical evaluation and technology transfer procedure for the Helping Hand system.

Keywords: Spinal cord injury, Quadriplegia, Self help devices, Vocational rehabilitation, Robotics

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5210

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 229-232, 1996

Authors: Topping, Mike

Article Type: Research Article

Keywords: Robotics, Rehabilitation, Aid eating, Independence and disability

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5211

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 233-234, 1996

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5212

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 235-235, 1996