Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Successful Aging with Disability: Optimizing Participation Through Technology (OPTT-RERC).
University of Southern California. 1540 Alcazar Street, CHP-155. Los Angeles, CA 90033.
E-mail:winstein@usc.edu. URL(s):http://www.isi.edu/research/rerc. Principal Investigator: Carolee J. Winstein, PhD, PT (USC); Philip Requejo, PhD (Rancho Los Amigos). Public Contact Phone: 323/442-2903. Fax: 323/442-1515. Project Number: H133E080024. Start Date: October 1, 2008. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Margaret Campbell, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $950,000; FY 09 $950,000; FY 10 $950,000; FY 11 $950,000; FY 12 $950,000. Abstract: The goal of this project is to enhance the lives of individuals aging with and into disability through: (1) development and delivery of cutting-edge technologies for identification, evaluation, and rehabilitation of motor processes that facilitate or impede functional performance, employment, and community participation for the intended beneficiaries; (2) employment of state-of-the-art data management, dissemination, and performance evaluation techniques to ensure that the knowledge and products emergent from the RERC are accessible for all intended beneficiaries; (3) assembly of a multidisciplinary team of experts in clinical rehabilitation, engineering, and gerontology, along with a select group of technology partners, and disability advocates to ensure that OPTT-RERC's short- and long-term outcome goals are successfully implemented; and (4) alignment of the clinical and technological strengths of several area programs into an integrated infrastructure to provide training opportunities for future rehabilitation researchers. The Dexterous Manipulation with the Fingertips Project evaluates a clinically useful metric and rehabilitation strategy for dynamic multifinger dexterity (R1) and, in collaboration with the second project area, develops a home-use gaming system to promote retention and improvement of dexterous manipulation via immersion technologies (D1). The Virtual Reality (VR) and Gaming for Home-Based Motor Assessment and Training Project develops low cost, home-based VR toolkits (VRT) for motor assessment and rehabilitation (D2) and investigates the efficacy of the VRT games for use in both the clinic setting and the home for individuals aging with and into disability (R2). The Optimizing Mobility in the Home and Community for Manual Wheelchair Users Project identifies optimal transfer and lifting mechanics to preserve the shoulder complex (R3) and uses VRT games for targeted and progressive shoulder exercise while sitting in a wheelchair (D3). The Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) for Mobility uses implantable wireless micro-stimulators to prevent recurrences of debilitating pressure ulcers in the middle age and older individuals with disability (D4). Descriptors: Aging, Dexterity, Mobility, Pressure sores, Virtual reality, Wheelchairs.
Technology for Access and Function.
Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center: Develop and Evaluate Technology for Low Vision, Blindness, and Multi-Sensory Loss.
The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute. 2318 Fillmore Street. San Francisco, CA 94115.
E-mail:rerc@ski.org. URL(s):http://www.ski.org/Rehab. Principal Investigator: John A. Brabyn, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 415/345-2000. Fax: 415/345-8455. Project Number: H133E060001. Start Date: August 1, 2006. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Kenneth D. Wood, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 06 $950,000; FY 07 $950,000; FY 08 $950,000; FY 09 $950,000; FY 10 $950,000. Abstract: This Center conducts a program of research and development to enhance the independence of blind, visually impaired, and deaf-blind individuals. Research includes investigation of assessment methods to guide rehabilitation of infant cortical visual impairment; practical innovations in assessment and interventions for elders with visual impairments; and development of independent assessment guidelines for emerging visual prostheses. The Center also conducts research in access to graphical information for blind, visually impaired, and deaf-blind persons, developing tools for rapid screen overview, auditory and tactile graph presentation, image classification, and on-demand production of tactile street maps. To address signage and travel information, the project is investigating information interfaces for travelers who are blind or visually impaired, and innovative computer vision methods to find and read existing print signs and labels. To address the rising barriers to accessing visual displays and appliances for employment and daily living, there is a designer education campaign and development of a universal talking LCD/LED display reader, practical consumer tools, and jobsite adaptations for employees who are blind or visually impaired. Other projects include development of a new-generation robotic finger-spelling hand for deaf-blind communication, and pilot investigations of difficulties in lipreading and sign language reading experienced by those with combined auditory and visual impairment. Descriptors: Blindness, Deaf blind, Engineering technology, Independent living, Low vision. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Cognitive Rehabilitation.
University of Colorado. 601 East 18th Avenue, Suite 130. Denver, CO 80203.
E-mail:cathy.bodine@ucdenver.edu. Principal Investigator: Cathy Bodine, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 303/315-1281. Fax: 303/837-1208. Project Number: H133E090003. Start Date: October 1, 2009. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Margaret Campbell, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $949,999; FY 10 $949,999; FY 11 $949,999; FY 12 $949,999; FY 13 $949,999. Abstract: This project focuses on the research and development of cognitive technologies for individuals with cognitive disabilities across the life span. Cognitive technologies increase the quality of life of consumers, their families, and caregivers; expand inclusion in all aspects of life and work; and increase independence. Focusing on three main areas, this project addresses: (1) development of a product usability testing facility focusing on rigorous industry-standard product testing protocols for cognitive assistive technology; (2) development of a core software/sensor platform to support mobile animated agents used for multiple applications; and (3) development of — currently a critical missing link for cognitive technology information technology access and technologies. Project activities focus on the challenges of people with cognitive disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment, and succeeding in the workplace. Moreover, this project addresses a number of specific challenges such as effective non-linear job coaching, coaching for jobs and tasks involving multiple workplace locations, returning to a task after the many types of interruptions presented in the modern technological workplace, and learning vocabulary for the workplace. Long-term project outcomes include increasing employment, job longevity, and job satisfaction people with cognitive disabilities. Descriptors: Assistive technology, Cognitive disabilities, Employment, Inclusion, Job training techniques, Software. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for the Advancement of Cognitive Technologies (RERC-ACT).
University of Colorado. 1245 East Colfax, Suite 200. Denver, CO 80218.
E-mail:cathy.bodine@uchsc.edu. URL(s):http://www.rerc-act.org. Principal Investigator: Cathy Bodine, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 303/315-1281. Fax: 303/837-1208. Project Number: H133E040019 (See also H133E090003). Start Date: November 1, 2004. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Kenneth D. Wood, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 04 $850,000; FY 05 $850,000; FY 06 $850,000; FY 07 $850,000; FY 08 $850,000; FY 09 $ 0. Abstract: The goal of this RERC is to research, develop, evaluate, implement, and disseminate innovative technologies and approaches that will have a positive impact on the way in which individuals with significant cognitive disabilities function within their communities and workplace. The Center incorporates: (1) a consumer-driven model for identifying the most significant barriers to independent living and workforce participation; (2) an approach that is balanced and uses both well-established and newly emerging technologies in its development projects; (3) a focus both on functional limitations and specific disabilities; and (4) mutually beneficial partnerships with private industry and public agencies. Research activities include: needs, knowledge, barriers, and uses of AT by persons with cognitive disabilities; technology for remote family support for people with cognitive disabilities; influences on AT use, non-use, and partial and inappropriate use by persons with traumatic brain injury; AT enhancement of written expression for children and adults; needs assessment for creating affordable, context-aware technologies; and technology to promote decision-making skills and self-determination for students with cognitive disabilities. Development activities include: Design, implementation, and deployment of context aware technologies for persons with cognitive disabilities residing in community living environments; development of HealthQuest, an Internet-based product that enables individuals with intellectual disabilities to become active participants in their own health care; XML repository of common tasks; batteryless micropower sensors for context aware technologies; perceptive animated interfaces for workforce training; and environmentally appropriate behavioral cues for individuals with TBI. Descriptors: Assistive technology, Brain injuries, Cognitive disabilities. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Hearing Enhancement.
Gallaudet University. 800 Florida Avenue, NE, MTB 116. Washington, DC 20002.
E-mail:RERC.HE@gmail.com. URL(s):http://www.hearingresearch.org. Principal Investigator: Matthew H. Bakke, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 202/651-5335. Fax: 202/651-5324. Project Number: H133E080006. Start Date: October 1, 2008. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $949,935; FY 09 $949,997; FY 10 $949,953; FY 11 $949,946; FY 12 $949,921. Abstract: This project builds and tests components of an innovative model of aural rehabilitation (AR) tools, services, and training in order to assure a better match between hearing technologies and individuals in their natural environments. Project goals include: (1) improving assessment, fitting, availability, and use of hearing technologies; (2) increasing the quality, availability, and knowledge of AR services; (3) training of consumers, service providers, and future researchers, developers, and practitioners; and (4) transferring technology and knowledge to agencies, standards bodies, consumers, and the professions who influence the communicative effectiveness of those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Additional component projects are designed to fall into four areas: (1) AR projects improve the assessment and treatment of individuals in need of AR; (2) hearing technology addresses the technology challenges of real-life use of assistive technologies, hearing aids, and cochlear implants; (3) training programs provide training of individuals who will become the rehabilitation innovators of the future; and (4) dissemination and advocacy programs transfer technology and knowledge to agencies, standards bodies, consumers, and hearing professionals. Descriptors: Aural rehabilitation, Deafness, Hearing enhancement, Hearing impairments, Hearing technologies, Rehabilitation engineering centers. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Wheeled Mobility in Everyday Life.
Georgia Institute of Technology. 490 Tenth Street, NW. Atlanta, GA 30318.
E-mail:mobilityrerc@coa.gatech.edu. URL(s):http://mobilityrerc.catea.org/. Principal Investigator: Stephen Sprigle, PhD, PT. Public Contact Phone: 404/894-4960 (V/TTY). Fax: 404/385-9320. Project Number: H133E080003. Start Date: October 1, 2008. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $949,998; FY 09 $949,995; FY 10 $949,994; FY 11 $949,998; FY 12 $949,995. Abstract: This project promotes new ways of conceptualizing and understanding wheeled mobility—focusing on devices and interventions that impact device use and activity performance. This approach enables as many individuals as possible to actively participate in everyday life. Project goals include four integrated program areas in research, development, training, and dissemination that utilize a variety of methodologies and scientific approaches taking research out of the laboratory and putting it into real-world, everyday environments. Research centers on four activities: R1. Pressure Ulcer Prevention: Susceptibility and Pressure Relief Effectiveness; R2. Effects of Mobility Device and Environmental Facilitators on Activity and Participation; R3. Improved Training to Improve Function which studies the effect of immediate video feedback on acquisition of advanced wheelchair skills, and the impact of an innovative wheelchair Tai Chi program on health, activity, and participation; and R4. Improved Wheelchair Prescription which examines effects of wheelchair type on performance of elders in public spaces and investigate how well clinicians predict the wheelchair use of their clients. Development projects address standards and test methods and commercial projects and include: D1. Development of Standards and Test Methods which develops three wheelchair cushion standards and a wheelchair test method to accurately measure the mechanical effort required to propel manual wheelchairs; D2. Inventor-Driven Product Development that assists in developing products that have been conceived by small companies and inventors; and D3. Development of Orphan Technologies, developing devices that have small markets but serve useful needs. Four training projects focus on a variety of audiences including: T1. Evidence-Based Online Wheelchair Seating and Positioning Course; T2. Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training; T3. Creating Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Experiences; and T4. State of the Science Conference. Descriptors: Mobility, Rehabilitation engineering, Seating, Wheelchairs. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Wireless Technologies.
Georgia Institute of Technology. 2020 Peachtree Road, NW. Atlanta, GA 30309.
E-mail:wirelessrerc@shepherd.org. URL(s):http://www.wirelessrerc.org. Principal Investigator: Helena Mitchell, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 404/367-1288. Fax: 404/350-7596. Project Number: H133E060061. Start Date: October 1, 2006. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Kenneth D. Wood, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 06 $949,999; FY 07 $949,999; FY 08 $949,998; FY 09 $949,999; FY 10 $949,999. Abstract: The mission of this project is to: (1) promote equitable access to and use of wireless technologies by persons with disabilities; and (2) encourage adoption of Universal Design in future generations of wireless technologies. To accomplish these aims, the RERC is organized into three main project sections: The Research Section is comprised of four research initiatives: Facilitating User Centered Research is designed to establish a research portal that communicates to industry the needs of people with disabilities for wireless technologies. Customer-driven Usability Assessment enhances the usability of future generations of cell phones and other wireless products by developing a methodology for assessing their usability by representative users with disabilities. Collaborative Policy Approaches to Promote Equitable Access develops, implements, and evaluates specific policy initiatives related to accessible wireless technologies and services. Advanced Auditory Interfaces develops, tests, and disseminates guidelines for the design of advanced auditory interfaces for cell phones and other handheld electronic devices. The Development Section includes four projects that promote equitable access to and use of wireless technologies by persons with disabilities through the development of prototype designs: Alternative Interfaces continues its work on the V2 standards for universal remote consoles and Real-time Location-based Information Services expands on previous work on the RERC’s personal captioning system by addressing the needs of patrons with vision or hearing impairments in three different venues: exhibit spaces, airports, and hospitals. Development of Wireless Emergency Communications and Ensuring Access to Emergency Assistance both focus on the area of wireless emergency communications for people with disabilities; developing wireless communication technology to be used by emergency personnel to contact individuals with disabilities, and by people with disabilities to signal the need for assistance. The Training and Dissemination Section promotes the synthesis of new knowledge into practice with the RERC’s State of the Science conference and a number of initiatives designed to educate consumers, providers, and other professionals, including: university courses, an annual student design competition, conference tutorials, and workshops, all geared toward access and usability of mobile wireless technologies. Descriptors: Communication, Emergency preparedness, Policy, Technology, Universal access, Wireless. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Workplace Accommodations.
Georgia Institute of Technology|Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access (CATEA)|. 490 Tenth Street, NW. Atlanta, GA 30318.
E-mail:workrerc@coa.gatech.edu. URL(s):http://www.workrerc.org. Principal Investigator: Karen Milchus. Public Contact Phone: 404/894-1414, 800/726-9119. Fax: 404/894-9320. Project Number: H133E070026. Start Date: October 1, 2007. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Shelley Reeves. NIDRR Funding: FY 07 $949,999; FY 08 $949,999; FY 09 $950,000; FY 10 $950,000; FY 11 $949,999. Abstract: The Workplace Rehabilitation Engineering and Research Center (RERC) identifies, develops, and promotes new assistive and universally designed technologies that maximize independence and participation of people with disabilities in the workplace. It focuses on the application of universal design (UD) concepts to improve the utility of workplace tools and devices for all workers through research, development, training, and dissemination. Research activities investigate five topics identified by current RERC research: user needs, longitudinal cost/benefits of accommodations, strategies used by aging workers, the impact of policy on access to and utilization of accommodations, and the effect of accommodations on employee participation in the workplace. Several development activities create and validate new workplace assessment tools for use by practitioners and employees. Other development activities design, prototype, and evaluate new workplace accommodations. Universally designed workstations and human-computer interfaces are being developed. In addition, the Work RERC develops technology for workers with identified and unmet accommodation needs, including prompting aids for employees with developmental disabilities and accommodations for employees with communication disabilities. Finally, Work RERC training activities include both instruction and evaluation of training outcomes and will target VR professionals, workers with disabilities, and students interested in design and engineering. Descriptors: Accommodation, Employment, Universal design. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Prosthetics and Orthotics.
Northwestern University. 345 East Superior Street, Room 1441. Chicago, IL 60611.
E-mail:reiu@northwestern.edu. URL(s):http://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/depts/repoc/index.html. Principal Investigator: Steven Gard, PhD; Stefania Fatone, PhD, BPO. Public Contact Phone: 312/238-6500. Fax: 312/238-6510. Project Number: H133E080009. Start Date: October 1, 2008. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $949,999; FY 09 $949,999; FY 10 $949,999; FY 11 $949,999; FY 12 $949,999. Abstract: This project improves the quality of life for persons who use prostheses and orthoses through creative applications of science and engineering to prosthetics and orthotics (P&O) through seven research projects and five development projects. These projects enhance the ability of prosthesis and orthosis users to perform activities of daily living and negotiate their daily environment safely and effectively, engage in their chosen employment/vocation, and improve their health through the safe and effective use of P&O devices. Increasing understanding about the fundamental biomechanics of standing, walking, reaching, grasping, and the corresponding utilization of P&O devices for these activities enable better evaluation and improvement upon current P&O technologies. Research is broad in scope involving lower-limb prosthetics, lower-limb orthotics, upper-limb prosthetics, analysis of spinal motion during gait in users of prostheses, and utilization of process and outcome information to improve P&O care delivery. Additional focus is given to the needs of farmers and ranchers with amputations. Development projects focus on human locomotion, reaching, grasping, and manipulation; and providing efficient and cost-effective production of prosthetic components with the goal to assist P&O clinicians in their daily practices by providing them with new mechanisms, evaluation and designs tools, and information about prosthetic/orthotic usage. Descriptors: Orthotics, Prosthetics, Quality of life, Rehabilitation engineering centers, Technology development. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Recreational Technologies and Exercise Physiology Benefiting Persons with Disabilities (RERC RecTech).
University of Illinois at Chicago. 1640 West Roosevelt Road, Suite 712. Chicago, IL 60608-6904.
E-mail:jrimmer@uic.edu. URL(s):http://www.rectech.org. Principal Investigator: James H. Rimmer, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 312/413-9651. Fax: 312/355-4058. Project Number: H133E070029. Start Date: October 1, 2007. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 07 $950,000; FY 08 $950,000; FY 09 $950,000; FY 10 $950,000; FY 11 $950,000. Abstract: This center includes a coordinated set of research, development, capacity building, and dissemination projects focused on facilitating and promoting healthier, more active lifestyles for people with disabilities. The key target areas for the research and development projects are improving access to recreation and exercise venues and equipment, increasing opportunities for participation by people with disabilities in beneficial exercise, using technology to support greater adherence to regular exercise, and promoting better health and function for people with disabilities through active lifestyles. The research and development agenda of the RERC provides the context for a growing capacity building effort targeting not only the next generation of leadership in engineering, research, and clinical practice but also infusing rehabilitation engineering concepts and principles into the curriculum of related disciplines. A broad and active dissemination program makes effective use of a non-profit organization advocating for inclusive recreation and exercise opportunities for people with disabilities: The Inclusive Fitness Coalition (IFC - www.incfit.org) currently has 53 member organizations representing the recreation and fitness industry, fitness and exercise science professionals, researchers, disability organizations, professional organizations, rehabilitation centers, and others united by a common goal of furthering inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in recreation and exercise in their own communities. Descriptors: Access, Exercise, Health promotion, Recreation. Rehabilitation Robotics and Telemanipulation Machines Assisting Recovery from Stroke Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (MARS-RERC).
Rehabilitation Institute Research Corporation. 345 East Superior Street, ONT-924 Attn: MARS-RERC Research Administration Chicago. Chicago, IL 60611-2654.
E-mail:medevitt@ric.orgj-patton@northwestern.edu. URL(s):http://www.mars-rerc.org. Principal Investigator: W. Zev Rymer, MD, PhD; Jim Patton, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 312/238-1277. Fax: 312/238-7605. Project Number: H133E070013. Start Date: October 1, 2007. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 07 $949,775; FY 08 $949,779; FY 09 $949,751; FY 10 $949,816; FY 11 $949,754. Abstract: Machines Assisting Recovery from Stroke Rehabilitation (MARS-RERC) is a multi-institutional center designed to evaluate the utility of simple robotic devices for providing rehabilitation therapy after hemispheric stroke. The broad objective is to develop devices that assist the therapist in stroke treatments that are rationally based, intensive, and long in duration. Such devices also monitor progress, and help to improve the functional performance of stroke survivors, with the intent that there will be a greater likelihood of their return to community and to work. The Center designs and implements a program of research and development, investigating the use of robot devices and related engineering technologies for better restoration of function in stroke survivors. The focus is largely on stroke, because this is the most common neurological disorder requiring intensive and prolonged rehabilitation. Research activities center on the application of new approaches that improve recovery outcomes of the entire body during either upper extremity reach-and-grasp activities or lower body locomotion activities. MARS-RERC includes six programs of study: (1) Development of new capabilities of the Lokomat® walking robot; (2) development of hand technology involving reaching; (3) development of telerehabilitation using an arm gravity-assistance device; (4) research benefits of error augmentation in relearning after stroke; (5) research benefits of overground walking the KineAssist® robot; and (6) training initiative on rehabilitation-oriented engineering design. Research training is a critical component that includes medical students, physician residents in physical medicine, graduate students in engineering and neuroscience, and allied health clinicians including physical and occupational therapists. There is a separate advanced education and training project dedicated to the design of robotic devices (Project 6 above) for rehabilitation as part of Northwestern University’s highly successful initiative in engineering design education. MARS-RERC is hosted at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) in conjunction with multi-national partners at Northwestern University, University of Illinois at Chicago, University of California at Irvine, ETH in Zurich, and INAOE, Puebla, Mexico. Descriptors: Functional outcome, Rehabilitation engineering, Robotics, Stroke. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Wheelchair Transportation Safety.
University of Michigan. 2901 Baxter Road. Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2150.
URL(s):http://www.rercwts.org. Principal Investigator: Lawrence W. Schneider, PhD (Michigan); Patricia Karg, MS (Pittsburgh); Gina Bertocci, PhD (Louisville). Public Contact Phone: 734/936-1103. Fax: 734/647-3330. Project Number: H133E060064. Start Date: November 1, 2006. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: William V. Schutz, PhD, MSW, MPH. NIDRR Funding: FY 06 $899,753; FY 07 $899,708; FY 08 $899,749; FY 09 $899,751; FY 10 $899,728. Abstract: Research conducted by the RERC on Wheelchair Transportation Safety (RERC WTS) advances the safety, usability, and independence of people who remain seated in their wheelchairs when traveling in motor vehicles. Research and development projects involve close collaboration with manufacturers, transit providers, vehicle modifiers, clinicians, and consumers to ensure quick translation of results into meaningful solutions that benefit travelers with mobility disabilities. Projects range from developing innovative solutions for forward-facing and rear-facing wheelchair passenger stations in large accessible transit vehicles, to investigating issues of school-bus transportation for children seated in WC-19 compliant and noncompliant wheelchairs, and to improving frontal- and rear-crash protection for occupants in private vehicles. Continuing research from previous grants, the RERC WTS extends the in-depth investigations of adverse events involving wheelchair-seated travelers, but also conducts a study of the transportation experience of wheelchair users in large public transit vehicles, including the process of entering and exiting the vehicle, accessing the wheelchair station, securing the wheelchair and restraining the occupant, and traveling to and from destinations. In addition to conducting research and development in six project areas, RERC WTS staff engages in information dissemination, training of future researchers, transferring innovative technology concepts to the marketplace, developing and revising voluntary industry standards, and convening the second State-of-the-Science Workshop on Wheelchair Transportation Safety. The RERC is a partnership of the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Louisville, and the University of Colorado. Descriptors: Safety, Transportation, Transportation accessibility, Wheelchairs. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Children with Orthopedic Disabilities.
New Jersey Institute of Technology. 323 M. L. King Street. Newark, NJ 07102.
E-mail:foulds@njit.edu. URL(s):http://rerc.njit.edu/. Principal Investigator: Richard A. Foulds, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 973/596-3335. Project Number: H133E050011. Start Date: November 1, 2005. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 05 $949,700; FY 06 $949,646; FY 07 $949,266; FY 08 $949,266; FY 09 $949,455. Abstract: This project focuses on research and development assisting children to achieve their full potential as productive citizens. The work plan includes a roster of projects designed to enhance the physical skills of these children to be successful in learning, playing, and living independently. This project includes three research and three development projects, as well as training projects serving the needs of children, families, students, and professionals. Project selection is driven by the RERC’s vision of RERCs as a source of innovation and of new technologies designed to address the serious problems faced by children with disabilities. This project is a collaboration of New Jersey Institute of Technology, the Children's Specialized Hospital, and Rutgers University, bringing together two academic departments of biomedical engineering with the nation's largest pediatric rehabilitation hospital. Descriptors: Children, Independent living, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation engineering centers, Rehabilitation research. Rehabilitation Engineering and Research Center (RERC) on Universal Design and the Built Environment at Buffalo.
University at Buffalo|The State University of New York|. 378 Hayes Hall. Buffalo, NY 14214.
E-mail:rercud@ap.buffalo.edu. URL(s):http://www.ap.buffalo.edu/idea/rercud.asp. Principal Investigator: Edward Steinfeld, ArchD; Geoff Fernie. Public Contact Phone: 716/829-3485, ext. 329. Fax: 716/829-3861. Project Number: H133E050004. Start Date: November 1, 2005. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Kenneth D. Wood, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 05 $949,996; FY 06 $949,994; FY 07 $949,999; FY 08 $949,997; FY 09 $949,993. Abstract: The RERC on Universal Design and the Built Environment (RERC-UD) is engaging the public and private sectors across four broad domains of the built environment: (1) community infrastructure, (2) public buildings, (3) housing, and (4) products. The RERC-UD generates strategically important research, development, education, and dissemination deliverables, to advance the fields of rehabilitation engineering and environmental design. The RERC-UD deliverables integrate universal design principles within the generally accepted models, methods, and metrics of design and engineering professionals in the building and manufacturing industries. Research projects document the efficacy of existing universally designed environments, and generate critical human factors data essential to resolving design and engineering problems. Development projects create evidence-based guidelines to implement universal design concepts within the tools of the design professions, and formulate methods to evaluate the usability of designs for people with mobility, sensory, and cognitive impairments. The usefulness of the guidelines and evaluation methods are demonstrated by applying them to the development of innovative products and environments with industry partners. Training activities include online certificate programs in universal design for design professionals, builders, manufacturers, and consumer advocates; a web portal and site for students and educators; and graduate programs that train researchers in advanced methods. Dissemination outputs include traditional refereed and trade publications, an extensive website with downloadable information products and design tools, model home demonstrations in local communities across the country, and outreach activities with professional, business, and standards development organizations. The RERC-UD’s state-of-the-science conference includes stakeholders in a plan to elevate universal design to an integral component of the mainstream design and engineering disciplines. Descriptors: Built Environment, Cognitive disabilities, Community Infrastructure, Development, Dissemination, Engineering technology, Housing, Universal design. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Communication Enhancement (AAC-RERC).
Duke University. 220 West Main Street. Durham, NC 27705.
E-mail:aac-rerc@mc.duke.edu. URL(s):http://www.aac-rerc.com. Principal Investigator: Frank DeRuyter, PhD; David Beukelman, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 919/681-9983. Fax: 919/681-9984. Project Number: H133E080011. Start Date: October 1, 2008. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $949,965; FY 09 $949,991; FY 10 $949,901; FY 11 $949,987; FY 12 $949,993. Abstract: The mission of the AAC-RERC is to assist people who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technologies in achieving their goals across environments. The goals and objectives of the AAC-RERC are to advance and promote AAC technologies through the outputs and outcomes of its research and development activities; and to support individuals who use, manufacture, and recommend these technologies in ways they value. The project builds on collaborative relationships with researchers and developers both in and outside of the field of AAC and assistive technology, including DynaVox Technologies, the Federal Laboratory Consortium, Department of Navy, and Research In Motion among others. Research projects include: (1) AAC technologies to reduce cognitive/linguistic load; (2) new interface strategies for AAC technologies; and (3) AAC technologies to increase usability, acceptance, and learnability. Development activities include: (1) connecting to the world - AAC access to mainstream technologies; (2) new interface strategies for AAC technologies; and (3) usability, acceptance, and learnability of AAC technologies. Descriptors: Assistive technology, Augmentative and alternative communication, Communication, Communication enhancement, Technology. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Communication Enhancement.
Duke University. Duke University Medical Center, Box 3888. Durham, NC 27710.
E-mail:aac-rerc@mc.duke.edu. URL(s):http://www.aac-rerc.com. Principal Investigator: Frank DeRuyter, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 919/681-9983. Fax: 919/681-9984. Project Number: H133E030018 (See also H133E080011). Start Date: November 1, 2003. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 03 $949,977; FY 04 $949,973; FY 05 $949,974; FY 06 $949,976; FY 07 $949,974; FY 08 $ 0; FY 09 $ 0. Abstract: The mission of this RERC is to assist people who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technologies in achieving their goals across environments. The goals and objectives of the RERC are to advance and promote AAC technologies through the outputs and outcomes of research and development activities and to support individuals who use, manufacture, and recommend these technologies in ways they value. Research projects cover the following areas: (1) improving AAC technology to better support societal roles; (2) enhancing AAC access by reducing cognitive/linguistic load; and (3) enhancing AAC usability and performance. Projects address issues of literacy, telework, specialized vocabulary, contextual scenes and intelligent agents, improving interface performance, and monitoring and simulating communication performance. Development activities include: (1) technology and policy watch; (2) new interfaces; and (3) reducing the cognitive/linguistic burden on AAC users. Activities address monitoring emerging technologies, standards, and policies; technologies to supplement intelligibility of residual speech, dysarthric speech, and gesture recognition; brain interface; AAC WebCrawling; and enhancing the role of listeners in AAC interactions. Descriptors: Assistive technology, Augmentative and alternative communication, Communication, Rehabilitation engineering. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Accessible Public Transportation.
Carnegie Mellon University. 5000 Forbes Avenue. Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
URL(s):http://www.rercapt.org. Principal Investigator: Aaron Steinfeld, PhD; Edward Steinfeld, ArchD. Public Contact Phone: 412/268-6346. Fax: 412/268-6436. Project Number: H133E080019. Start Date: October 1, 2008. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Kenneth D. Wood, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $948,199; FY 09 $947,430; FY 10 $947,433; FY 11 $948,113; FY 12 $947,624. Abstract: The goal of this project is to establish an effective and sustainable process to address the high priority transportation needs of people with disabilities using enabling technology and universal design. The RERC activities respond to the character of public transportation and its societal context, including its significant role in employment and social participation. The approach focuses on transportation as a travel chain where problems in early links can block access to a whole system. The project mix also leverages emerging information technologies and addresses the need for consumer-driven solutions that can be rapidly implemented and adapted to a wide range of transportation systems. Research and development activities include: (1) evaluate accessible and affordable tools for empowering consumers and service providers to collect and utilize research data, an example of "citizen science"; (2) provide an evidence base for boarding and disembarking policies, practices, and products with an in-depth examination of critical issues in vehicle ramp and interior design; (3) create a public website where riders can report on their experiences using a transportation system and software that can assist them in reaching their destination; and (4) produce guidelines, reference designs, and a demonstration bus with new vehicle interior concepts that are ready for commercialization. RERC activities also include active training and dissemination of evidence-based guidelines to stakeholders, publications, a conference, and capacity building for future research. Descriptors: Accessibility, Public transportation, Transportation, Universal design. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Spinal Cord Injury.
University of Pittsburgh. 2310 Jane Street, Suite 1300. Pittsburgh, PA 15203.
E-mail:dkeelan@pitt.edu. Principal Investigator: David M. Brienza, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 412/586-6905. Fax: 412/586-6910. Project Number: H133E070024. Start Date: October 1, 2007. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Kenneth D. Wood, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 07 $949,999; FY 08 $950,000; FY 09 $950,000; FY 10 $949,999; FY 11 $950,000. Abstract: This center conducts research, development, and evaluation of innovative technologies and approaches that will improve the treatment, rehabilitation, employment, and reintegration into society of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Research and development activities address tissue integrity management, upper extremity musculoskeletal injury prevention, and bladder function. Specific projects address: (1) the development of computational models of inflammation and healing for assessment of person-specific interventions and for general technology/intervention evaluations for pressure ulcer prevention and detection, (2) evaluation of the effects of support surface active cooling and low shear followed by development and evaluation of a novel seat cushion incorporating these features, (3) the development and evaluation of tools for manual wheelchair propulsion training, (4) the evaluation of novel manual wheelchair propulsion devices for preventing shoulder injury, (5) the evaluation of a weight shifting approach for preventing pressure ulcers, and (6) the development of preliminary computational models of inflammation and healing for evaluating bladder function and musculoskeletal injury status. The research team and collaborators include the Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology, the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, and the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Pittsburgh plus Case Western Reserve University, Northwestern University, Baylor College of Medicine, IBM, and Immunetrics. The technology transfer program targets private and public sectors. The training and knowledge translation plan is equally broad based, targeting graduate and undergraduate students, practicing clinicians, researchers, and individuals with SCI and their caregivers. Descriptors: Pressure sores, Spinal cord injuries, Technology evaluation, Wheelchair design. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Telerehabilitation.
University of Pittsburgh. 2310 Jane Street, Suite 1300. Pittsburgh, PA 15203.
E-mail:dkeelan@pitt.edu. URL(s):http://www.rerctr.pitt.edu. Principal Investigator: David M. Brienza, PhD; Michael McCue, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 412/586-6905. Fax: 412/586-6910. Project Number: H133E090002. Start Date: October 1, 2009. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Margaret Campbell, PhD. NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $949,997; FY 10 $949,999; FY 11 $949,999; FY 12 $949,999; FY 13 $949,999. Abstract: This project conducts research and develops methods, systems, and technologies to support consultative, preventative, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions to improve and promote telerehabilitation (TR) for individuals who have limited access to comprehensive medical and rehabilitation outpatient services. This project’s research and development activities address cognitive and vocational rehabilitation, communication technology assessment and training, TR infrastructure, and prevention and management of secondary conditions. Specific project goals include: (1) developing a scalable informatics infrastructure, (2) developing and evaluating a neuropsychological assessment protocol, (3) investigating a program of applied cognitive rehabilitation, (4) investigating the use of remote job coaching, (5) developing and evaluating a TR enhanced wellness program in spina bifida, (6) investigating the use of TR to manage chronic edema and lymphedema in individuals with mobility disabilities, (7) developing and evaluating tools for augmentative and alternative communication and computer access service delivery, and (8) TR capacity building via selected technology implementation projects and the development of a uniform dataset for TR. Descriptors: Assessment tool, Cognitive rehabilitation, Technology evaluation, Telerehabilitation, Vocational rehabilitation. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Universal Interface and Information Technology Access.
University of Wisconsin/Madison. 1550 Engineering Drive, Room 2107 ECB. Madison, WI 53706-1609.
E-mail:info@trace.wisc.edu. URL(s):http://trace.wisc.edu/itrerc. Principal Investigator: Gregg C. Vanderheiden, PhD. Public Contact Phone: 608/265-4621 (V), 608/263-5408 (TTY). Fax: 608/262-8848. Project Number: H133E080022. Start Date: October 1, 2008. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 08 $950,000; FY 09 $950,000; FY 10 $950,000; FY 11 $950,000; FY 12 $950,000. Abstract: This project focuses on the accessibility of information technologies and electronic products, including the technologies and products encountered in education, work, travel, and in the home and community, both online and in life, for persons across disabilities types and socio-economic levels. This project’s four goals focus on the following: (1) the development of models and measures that can lead to better policy and more useful information for designers interested in creating products that are accessible and useable across disabilities; (2) creating a collaborative effort to build accessibility directly into the Internet and address underlying issues in the area of assistive technology; (3) advancing research on and the use of personal pluggable user interfaces focusing on their effectiveness in providing access to different types of mainstream technology (Project R2) and facilitating the incorporation of interface sockets in mainstream products (Project D2); and (4) continuing to advance commercial practice around accessibility; that is, taking concepts that have proven to be effective and making commercially available products which address the needs of people with disabilities. Each of these four goals seeks to foster change in rehabilitation or commercial practice, so that people with all levels of disability and all levels of socio-economic standing have effective access to both current technology and the rapidly evolving next-generation technologies. Finally, this project focuses on capacity building in the field through training and mentoring activities in affiliation with the Biomedical Engineering and Industrial & Systems Engineering departments at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in addition to other key stakeholders engaged in making information technology more accessible for people with disabilities. Descriptors: Information technology, Universal design, Accessibility, Internet, Computers. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Telecommunication Access.
University of Wisconsin/Madison. 2107 Engineering Centers Building 1550 Engineering Drive. Madison, WI 53706.
E-mail:info@trace.wisc.edu. URL(s):http://trace.wisc.edu/telrerc. Principal Investigator: Gregg C. Vanderheiden, PhD (Trace); Judy Harkins, PhD (Gallaudet University). Public Contact Phone: 608/265-4621 (V), 608/263-5408 (TTY). Fax: 608/262-8848. Project Number: H133E040013 (See also H133E090001). Start Date: October 1, 2004. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 04 $850,000; FY 05 $924,988; FY 06 $850,000; FY 07 $850,000; FY 08 $850,000; FY 09 $ 0. Abstract: The primary mission of the Telecommunications Access RERC is to advance accessibility and usability in existing and emerging telecommunications products for people with all types of disabilities. Telecommunications accessibility is addressed along all three of its major dimensions: user interface, transmission (including digitization, compression, etc.), and modality translation services (relay services, gateways, etc.). The RERC looks at advances that have both short- and long-term outcomes related to assistive technologies (AT), interoperability, and universal design of telecommunications. The RERC encompasses research and development programs, as well as training, technical assistance, and dissemination activities. A large part of the RERC’s research and development program is directly related to the rapidly emerging Voice over IP (VoIP) technologies and other IP-based systems. The goal is to help ensure that these new technologies are accessible and usable by people with hearing impairments, blindness, and other disabilities. The research and development program of this RERC covers three areas: (1) Development of tools, techniques, and performance-based measures that can be used to evaluate current and evolving telecommunication technologies. (2) Solving the problems faced by individuals using hearing aids or cochlear implants with digital phones. (3) Improving access to emerging telecommunications - particularly digital and IP based systems. Projects in this area: (a) Identify techniques to alert people about possible emergencies and to ensure accessible communication in emergency or crisis situations; (b) seek solutions for the current incompatibility issues around text communications and ways to build the necessary capabilities into mainstream technologies, to allow them to evolve to new text, speech, and visual communication technologies; and (c) develop guidelines and reference materials to help mainstream telecommunications manufacturers build their regular products in a way that allows individuals with visual, hearing, physical, and cognitive disabilities to be able to use them. The goals of the RERC's training, technical assistance, and dissemination activities are: To increase the number and level of expertise of people working to make standard telecommunication systems and products accessible and usable for people who have disabilities or who are aging; to move ideas and concepts out into the field in the form of standards or commercial products; and to provide useful information from our research to the telecommunications industry, consumers, and policymakers. Descriptors: Accessibility, Blindness, Developmental disabilities, Hearing impairments, Telecommunications, Universal design. Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Telecommunications Access.
University of Wisconsin/Madison. 2107 Engineering Centers Building 1550 Engineering Drive. Madison, WI 53706.
E-mail:info@trace.wisc.edu. URL(s):http://trace.wisc.edu/telrerc. Principal Investigator: Gregg C. Vanderheiden, PhD (Trace); Judy Harkins, PhD (Gallaudet University). Public Contact Phone: 608/265-4621 (V), 608/263-5408 (TTY). Fax: 608/262-8848. Project Number: H133E090001. Start Date: October 1, 2009. Length: 60 months. NIDRR Officer: Thomas Corfman. NIDRR Funding: FY 09 $950,000; FY 10 $950,000; FY 11 $950,000; FY 12 $950,000; FY 13 $950,000. Abstract: This project lays the foundation for access in next generation technologies and creates bridge technologies, allowing users to migrate to new communication technologies without losing access to emergency services or the ability to communicate with colleagues and family who are still on older telecommunication networks. Extending across disabilities and technology platforms, research and development activities focus on three specific issues: (1) telecommunication access in emergency situations, (2) interoperability and transition between current and next generation telecommunication access, and (3) access to telecollaboration for employment and participation. Project R1 focuses on identifying and quantifying the problems faced by people with hearing loss in using new IP telecommunications products and networks. The project includes both a user input-gathering activity and a study to quantify the impact of IP transmission on hearing loss. Projects R2 and D1 focus on telecollaboration and include a series of 14 sessions with consumer groups, software developers, and corporate users to identify barriers and potential strategies for increasing access to telecollaboration systems. Project D2 addresses the transition between legacy and next-generation text communication technologies. The project has two components: develop and prototype an affordable interim solution to reconnect deaf users of mobile technology who lost access to 9-1-1; and prototype a bridge technology for maintaining interoperability between old and new text communication technologies during the decade of transition to the next-generation (interoperable) text and total conversation (text, voice, and video) technologies. Project D3 provides research, prototypes, consultation, tools, and open source implementations, and other support to consumers, researchers, and industry in order to help move solutions that are already known and proven out of research labs and into commercial products, industry standards, professional practice, and ultimately users’ hands. Descriptors: Accessibility, Deafness, Developmental disabilities, Hearing impairments, Mobile technology, Software, Telecommunications.
