Devices for Mobility and Manipulation for People with Reduced Abilities

Book excerpt: The development and application of assistive technology can help those with reduced abilities improve their quality of life and reduce their dependence on others. Written in layman’s terms, Devices for Mobility and Manipulation for People with Reduced Abilities provides research and information on assistive technologies for non-technical people. While it highlights various mobility and manipulative technologies, with the exception of specific examples within the text, it keeps technical terminology, equations, and software details to a minimum. It presents technical material in a digestible way for people with reduced abilities as well as for their caregivers. Each chapter covers a specific technology, and starts with a general introduction of that technology, followed by the technical details and an assessment from the user’s viewpoint. This includes the user benefits and suitability, cost, reliability, and required infrastructure. The chapter also provides illustrations or photographs of the devices, and identifies shortcomings, current research related to the technology, and possible development opportunities. Each chapter provides the range of specifications for the equipment and includes a list of manufacturers. Discusses user advantages and conditions Examines technologies for robotic wheelchairs and prostheses Helps a clinician or user understand the different devices that support people with disabilities This book provides clinicians, users, and engineers with the details of different technologies, and also includes a guide to the technology that underpins each of these devices, making it easier for people to understand the devices. References are also included for scientists, designers, and other tech-savvy professionals interested in further information.