Custom device development and professional training in developmental disabilities

To meet the assistive device needs of individuals with developmental disabilities in Western New York State, the Center for Assistive Technology offers a program called Applied Studies. This program was described in more detail in a previous issue of Technology and Disability (Mann, 1992). Graduate students in engineering, architecture, the therapies, and rehabilitation counseling work in teams with faculty in identifying appropriate assistive devices for each individual referred to the program. When there is a need for a device but the device is not commercially available, the team designs and fabricates one copy for the client's issue. For those devices that might serve other individuals with disabilities, the Center for Assistive Technology develops and prints Technical Reports. Each Technical Report provides a description of the functional need addressed, and directions for fabricating copies of the device. Below are descriptions of the eight Applied Studies devices: Supine Positioner Mold, VCR Tape Guide, Adapted Camera, Horseback Riding Trunk Support, Cassette Tape Guide, Labeling Jig, Portable Paraffin Wax Stand, Assessment Walker.