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Assistive Technology Exploration and Training Center

Award Information
Agency: Department of Health and Human Services
Branch: National Institutes of Health
Contract: N/A
Agency Tracking Number: 2R44HD036927-02
Amount: $391,234.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N/A
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: N/A
Award Year: 2001
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): N/A
Award End Date (Contract End Date): N/A
Small Business Information
462 HIGH ST
LEXINGTON, KY 40507
United States
DUNS: N/A
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 JO FLEMING
 () -
Business Contact
Phone: (606) 226-9625
Email: ORCCA@MIS.NET
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

DESCRIPTION (Applicant's Abstract): This project will design, develop, and evaluate an interactive multimedia program to provide information and training
on assistive technology. In order to match an individual who has a disability
with the appropriate assistive technology, it is necessary that all individuals
involved have knowledge and skills related to characteristics and operation of
the technology. This program will allow the user to obtain information and
training on: 1) defining features and technical characteristics of a selection
of categories of assistive technology; 2) basic principles of operation of
these devices and systems; 3) technical requirements and compatibility
information needed to interface/integrate the devices and systems; and, 4)
potential applications and typical uses of these devices and systems. The
program will use a metaphor of a community-based Assistive Technology (AT)
Center. Within the AT Center will be four rooms each dedicated to a specific
area of assistive technology: Adaptive Computer Technology Room, Communication
Technology Room, Environmental Adaptations Room, and Mobility and Seating Room.
Within each room, the user will be presented with a selection of 3D images
depicting a representative set of assistive technology devices and systems.
Interactive multimedia will provide an opportunity to learn about this
assistive technology, using a unique set of presentation technologies which
will enhance the learning experience through: interactive user control of the
program content and sequence of presentation; viewing high-resolution
photographic images and 3D objects; viewing 3D animations of device
configuration and functioning; user manipulation and three-dimensional viewing
of both modeled representations and photographs of real devices using QuickTime
VR technology (Apple Computer); digital video presentation of device
configuration and potential uses; access to the Internet for more information
about specific products and program updates; summaries of information that can
be sent to a printer; user-controlled, operational simulations of a selection
of assistive devices and systems; and embedded competency assessment. The
program will provide a low-cost, convenient and effective alternative for the
many individuals who need information and training on the operation and uses of
assistive technology devices and systems but do not have access to the required
assistive technology expertise or equipment.

PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
The commercial potential for this program is indicated by: (1) large numbers of individuals with disabilities; (2) many organizations and agencies who are mandated to provide assistive technology services; 3) many university training programs in special education, allied health sciences, engineering, rehabilitation counseling, medicine and nursing; (4) the growing need for inservice training and information; (5) many facilities such as assistive technology centers, libraries, and public computer access laboratories. This list, and the demographic information given below, indicates that there exists a large professional, institutional and organizational market for this product.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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