An assessment methodology and its application to a robotic vocational assistive device

Issue title: Robotics

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Birch, G.E.^{a; *} | Fengler, M.^a | Gosine, R.G.^b | Schroeder, K.^c | Schroeder, M.^a | Johnson, D.L.^d

Affiliations: [a] Neil Squire Foundation, 220-2250 Boundary Road, Burnaby, BC V5M 4L9, Canada | [b] Medical Engineering Group, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland, A1B 3X5, Canada | [c] Nova Quality Research, 301-1534 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6J 1H2, Canada | [d] British Columbia Institute of Technology, 2700 Wellington, Burnaby, BC V5G 3H2, Canada

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author. Tel.: + 1 604 4739363; Fax: + 1 604 4739364.

Abstract: This paper presents the results of a collaborative research project which developed and applied an assessment methodology for determining whether a robotic assistive work device would significantly decrease the number of times an able-bodied co-worker or attendant was required to provide assistance. The assessment methodology developed in this project may be useful for future evaluations of this technology. The results showed that a significant reduction in attendant time per unit of work does occur when using the device. A decrease in productivity, however, also occurred when the device was used. Further investigation of this decrease in productivity and quantitative data on the cost of disrupting a co-worker is required before any firm conclusion can be made regarding the effectiveness of the device.

Keywords: Robotics, Assistive devices, Rehabilitation, Habilitation, Assessment methodology

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-5204

Journal: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 2, pp. 151-165, 1996