• Information Centers
|
• Conferences
|
• Companies by State
|
• International Resources
|
• Links A to Z

Product Research and Development Information Center

Organizations

1. Adaptive Computing Lab - Millersville University
   The purpose of this facility is to provide research, development, training, and support in the general area of human-computer interaction, and the specific area of adaptive (assistive) technologies for those with disabilities. The goal of this lab is to bridge the gap between computer science and disability services (including areas such as speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation engineering) by helping to make AT easier to understand and use through research and development, as well as by providing training to end users, AT developers, parents, teachers, and computing professionals. These facilities provide support to university students, staff, and faculty, as well as the community at large. [More Information on Adaptive Computing Lab - Millersville University]
   
   
2. Center on Knowledge Translation for Technology Transfer
   The Center on Knowledge Translation for Technology Transfer (KT4TT) seeks to improve both the knowledge translation (KT) and technology transfer (TT) skills of NIDRR grantees and related stakeholders to achieve the following objectives: (1) contribute to the knowledge base of KT for TT; (2) improve knowledge about and practice of KT for the National Institute on Disability Rehabilitation Research and their TT grantees and other Knowledge Users (consumers, manufacturers, researchers, policy makers, and brokers); and (3) increase use of KT methods by researchers, and increase use of research-based knowledge by external stakeholders. The program intends to increase technology transfer results that improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities through a three-pronged approach that includes - research-based interventions to implement and test the Knowledge to Action model; development-based applications of KT to accomplish TT outcomes; utilization-oriented methods of Dissemination, Training and Technical Assistance to effectively communicate with knowledge producers and knowledge users. [More Information on Center on Knowledge Translation for Technology Transfer]
   
   
3. Coleman Institute for Cognitive Disabilities
   The mission of the Coleman Institute for Cognitive Disabilities is to catalyze and integrate advances in science, engineering, and technology to promote the quality of life and independent living of people with cognitive disabilities. Part of the University of Colorado, the Institute's primary activity is to provide grants for cognitive disability and technology research and development to CU faculty on all campuses of the university. The Institute makes grants that provide seed funding for research that may lead to patent-protected intellectual property and ultimately, commercialization. A major investment of the Coleman Institute has been in the $1.25 million co-funding of the $5.5 million center grant from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) to create the nation's first Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for the Advancement of Cognitive Technologies (RERC-ACT). [More Information on Coleman Institute for Cognitive Disabilities]
   
   
4. Design:Use:Build (DUB) Center for Human-Computer Interaction and Design
   Dub is an alliance of faculty and students across the University of Washington exploring human-computer interaction and design. Projects include Accessibility (DHH Cyber Community, MobileASL, Project ACCESS, SUPPLE, Tactile Graphics Project, Vocal Joystick, VoiceDraw, and WebInSight); Design Theory, Methods and Tools (ActivityStudio, DENIM, Topiary); Intelligent User Interfaces (Intelligent Wikipedia, SUPPLE); Low Income Regions (Change); Multimodal Input (Muscle-Computer Interfaces, Vocal Joystick, VoiceDraw, VoicePen); Privacy and Security (Shared Knowledge Access Control); and Ubiquitous and Context-Aware Computing (ActivityStudio, SUPPLE, Topiary, UbiFit). [More Information on Design:Use:Build (DUB) Center for Human-Computer Interaction and Design]
   
   
5. ENABLE Project - Enabling Technologies for People with Dementia
   The ENABLE project, which concluded in 2004, was concerned with development and adaptation of technological products that people with dementia (e.g. Alzheimer's disease) could use to carry out daily tasks which they previously were unable to do due to dementia. The selected products fell into three categories: (1) devices to support memory (time orientation, taking medicines etc.); (2) devices to provide pleasure and comfort (multimedia programs); and (3) devices to facilitate communication (a pre-programmable telephone). The project was funded by the European Union and carried out by partners in five countries (England, Ireland, Finland, Lithuania and Norway). It was coordinated by the Norwegian Centre for Dementia Research. [More Information on ENABLE Project - Enabling Technologies for People with Dementia]
   
   
6. Fortec Rehabilitation Technology Group
   The Rehabilitation Technology Group (Fortec) of the Vienna University of Technology concentrates on research & development in the areas of (Ambient) Assisted Living; curative, assistive and palliative medicine; user-centred design of user interfaces in bioelectronics (biological and electronic systems); and related ethical concerns. Some examples of Fortec projects are: SILC and ENABLE - assisted living by intelligent wrist alarm system; e-Home - supporting independence of old people in their homes; POVES - opto-electronic vision enhancement device; FRR - an intelligent adaptable restroom; AUTONOM - a communication system for diagnostics of young disabled; ISUI and EMU - versatile user interfaces; ICTA - market barriers for ICT-products; and MofA - mobility in the public transport area. [More Information on Fortec Rehabilitation Technology Group]
   
   
7. FST - Fondation Suisse pour les Teletheses
   The Fondation Suisse pour les Teletheses (FST) is a Swiss organization that designs products to meet the needs of individuals with communication or severe physical disabilities. Products developed by FST include B.A. Bar, a talking bar code reader that functions as a communication aid, and a telephone designed for use by individuals with severe disabilities. Web site in French and German. [More Information on FST - Fondation Suisse pour les Teletheses]
   
   
8. John P. Murtha Assistive Technology Research Center
   The mission of the John P. Murtha Assistive Technology Research Center (ATRC) at NRH is to invent, develop, evaluate, and deploy technologies that enhance recovery, foster independent living, and aid the clinical practice of rehabilitation medicine. The Center builds on a foundation of ongoing work at NRH and its partner organizations especially in the areas of neurologic assessment, technology development, telehealth, outcomes research, and health services research. The ATRC is funded through the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (USAMRMC). [More Information on John P. Murtha Assistive Technology Research Center]
   
   
9. Lemelson Assitive Technology Development Center
   Their mission statement: "The Lemelson Assistive Technology Development Center (LATDC) provides students with an experiential education in applied design, invention, and entrepreneurship through the use of assistive technology and universal design. LATDC is a part of Hampshire College's School of Interdisciplinary Arts." [More Information on Lemelson Assitive Technology Development Center]
   
   
10. National Center for Accessible Transportation
    At Oregon State University, the National Center for Accessible Transportation (NCAT) is conducting basic research on accessibility issues and developing practical, cost-effective improvements in transportation technologies, with the goal of making transportation more accessible for everyone. The center is supported by research and development funds. NCAT research and development projects cover all primary modes of public transportation, including buses, trains,and commercial aircraft. [More Information on National Center for Accessible Transportation]
    
    
11. National Center for Technology Innovation
    Funded by the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), NCTI advances learning opportunities for individuals with disabilities by fostering technology innovation. We seek to broaden and enrich the field by providing resources and promoting partnerships for the development of tools and applications by developers, manufacturers, producers, publishers and researchers. [More Information on National Center for Technology Innovation]
    
    
12. Quality of Life Technology Center
    The Quality of Life Technology (QoLT) Center is a National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center (ERC). QoLT was created to significantly improve and sustain the quality of life for all people by integrating information, engineering, and biomedical innovations for the prevention, rehabilitation and compensation of human ailments. The center is developing new approaches to help manage and maintain physical and mental health, and devices and systems that both restore and enhance natural human perception, cognition, and motor skills for people with reduced functional capabilities due to aging or disability. QoLT is a unique partnership between Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh that brings together a cross-disciplinary team of technologists, clinicians, industry partners, end users, and other stakeholders to create revolutionary technologies that will improve and sustain the quality of life for all people. [More Information on Quality of Life Technology Center ]
    
    
13. Speech Research Laboratory
    The Speech Research Laboratory focuses on developing new speech technology and adapting existing speech technology for people with speech and communication difficulties. The lab is part of The Center for Pediatric Auditory and Speech Sciences (CPASS) at the duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware. Projects include a speech synthesis system called ModelTalker which allows Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device users to create personalized synthetic voices. The ModelTalker system is also being used to develop adaptive speech material for use in Aural Rehabilitation applications. Another project is using speech recognition technology to develop a system for automating functional hearing evaluation for hearing impaired individuals. The SRL is also studying children’s speech, and has collected a database of children’s speech that includes both normal speech and examples of common articulation difficulties. The database is being used to improve automatic recognition of children’s speech. The improved recognition will be used to develop speech training software including a game-like iPad application intended to work as an adjunct to conventional A/V therapy by providing drill, monitoring progress, and assisting in record keeping and reporting. In addition to application-oriented projects like ModelTalker and aural training systems, the SRL conducts basic research on speech production and perception using state-of-the-art equipment including sound isolation chambers and a Carstens AG-501 electromagnetic articulograph. The Speech Research Laboratory is funded by Nemours Biomedical Research with additional external funding from sources that include NIH, NSF, and NIDRR. [More Information on Speech Research Laboratory]
    
    
14. V-LINC (formerly VME and LINC)
    V-LINC is a non-profit organization focused on developing and providing assistive technology for people with disabilities. It was formed by the 2010 merger of Volunteers for Medical Engineering (VME) and Learning Independence Through Computers (LINC). V-LINC’s volunteers, with expertise in medicine, engineering and technology, create or modify devices to help people with disabilities perform daily living activities, participate in recreation activities, communicate through augmentative devices, and control their environment. These services are provided for a small fee for completed devices. V-LINC also provides an inclusive summer day camp for children with and without disabilities and provides assessments and training on assistive devices and software that are used to access and use a computer; these services are available for people of all ages. [More Information on V-LINC (formerly VME and LINC)]
    
    

View State Specific Organizations

Conferences                                                         Return to top of page

1. RESNA 2013 Annual Conference
   June 20, 2013 to June 24, 2013 in Bellevue, Washington, United States
   Designed by and for people passionate about the use of assistive technology to improve the health and well-being of people with disabilities, RESNA 2013 offers educational sessions, scientific paper sessions, posters, three plenary sessions with internationally-recognized speakers, and a large exhibit hall. Mixed in are dozens of meetings of committees, SIGs (shared interest groups) and PSGs (professional specialty groups). [More Information on RESNA 2013 Annual Conference]
   
   

Past Conferences                                                         Return to top of page

1. NARRTC 2012 Annual Conference
   April 26, 2012 to April 27, 2012 in Alexandria, Virginia, United States
   NARRTC (formerly known as the National Association of Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers) seeks improve the quality of life, independence of life choices, and the inclusion of individuals with disabilities and their families through relevant research, training, technical assistance, knowledge translation, development and demonstration activities. NARRTC members are current projects funded through the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR). The theme of the 2012 conference will be "Advancing and Sustaining Research in Disability and Rehabilitation." [More Information on NARRTC 2012 Annual Conference]
   
   
2. CSUN 2012 International Technology and Persons with Disabilities Conference
   February 27, 2012 to March 3, 2012 in San Diego, California, United States
   This comprehensive conference features presentations, training and exhibitions relating to all types assistive technology. The conferences addresses issues for all ages, disabilities, and levels of education as well as training, employment, and independent living. [More Information on CSUN 2012 International Technology and Persons with Disabilities Conference]
   
   
3. RESNA 2012 Annual Conference
   June 28, 2012 to July 3, 2012 in Baltimore, Maryland, United States
   The RESNA 2012 Annual Conference will be an interdisciplinary gathering of individuals and companies who share a common interest in rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology and disability issues in general. The conference schedule (to be announced at a later date) will include workshops and plenary sessions. Mixed in are dozens of meetings of committees, SIGs (shared interest groups) and PSGs (professional specialty groups). [More Information on RESNA 2012 Annual Conference]
   
   
4. RESNA 2009 Annual Conference
   June 23, 2009 to June 27, 2009 in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
   The RESNA Annual Conference is an interdisciplinary gathering of individuals and companies who share a common interest in rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology and disability issues in general. The conference schedule (to be announced at a later date) will include workshops and plenary sessions. Mixed in are dozens of meetings of committees, SIGs (shared interest groups) and PSGs (professional specialty groups). [More Information on RESNA 2009 Annual Conference]
   
   
5. 2008 NCTI Technology Innovators Conference
   November 20, 2008 to November 21, 2008 in Washington, D.C., United States
   The 2008 NCTI Technology Innovators Conference offers a comprehensive two-day agenda focusing on emerging technology trends, challenges, and guidance for "Thriving in a Global Marketplace." Participants will have the opportunity to discuss solutions for pressing issues with internationally renowned speakers. The conference's Tech Expo will provide an interactive showcase of instructional and assistive technology tools and devices for students with special needs where attendees can experience and "test drive" the latest global technology innovations through the Tech Expo. Attendees also will have an opportunity to network with thought leaders who are transforming the international market through public/private partnerships at the Innovators Marketplace. [More Information on 2008 NCTI Technology Innovators Conference]
   
   

News                                                         Return to top of page

1. Nominations Requested for 2012 da Vinci Awards
   Aug 31, 2012
   The da Vinci Accessibility Awards honor individuals, organizations, and corporations in the engineering, construction, and technical fields for innovative developments and research in adaptive and assistive technologies. This year's 11th annual awards recognize individuals, organizations, and corporations in the engineering, construction and technical realm whose design innovations have exceeded any legally mandated requirements such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, to further empower all people, regardless of physical ability. The deadline for the 2012 award nominations is September 30, 2012. This event is sponsored by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Michigan Chapter. [More Information on Nominations Requested for 2012 da Vinci Awards]
   
   
2. CNN Discusses the Future of Universal Design
   Oct 30, 2008
   A story published on the CNN Web site on October 30, 2008 discusses the future of universal design and asserts that the gap is narrowing between products designed for the general population and those designed for people with disabilities. Dr. Don Norman of Northwestern University is quoted as advocating an "accessible activity-centered" approach to design that looks at the job a person needs to achieve in using a particular technology when designing a product to fulfil that function. [More Information on CNN Discusses the Future of Universal Design]