APPLYING CO-DESIGN TO ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
We are a multidisciplinary team of researchers attempting to revolutionise the way Assistive Technology (AT) is delivered.
Our aim is to develop a blueprint for a digital design and manufacturing clinical service that will streamline the co-design process and overcome barriers to AT use.
ABOUT US
OUR MISSION
We are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through the development and production of personalised, task-oriented Assistive Technology (AT). By applying user-centred co-design, we ensure that our products are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Our work stems from PhD research undertaken by Dr. Jonathan Howard at Swansea Bay University Health Board, Wales, UK. He identified that the co-design of personalised AT devices by healthcare services results in solutions better suited to the end-user's needs. This can improve the user’s physical and emotional well-being, enabling people to regain function and independence. He is working with colleagues at PDR, Cardiff Metropolitan University and across NHS Wales.
Our ongoing work seeks to scale up the ability of healthcare professionals to collaboratively create AT with people who use it. We use digital design and manufacturing technologies, including 3D computer-aided design and 3D printing to achieve this.
Our work was originally funded by the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), Tidal N+. You can watch a short video on the project here. We continue to develop new projects and partnerships in the field of AT.
WHAT WE DO
Assistive Technology Design
Our team of experts collaborates with individuals with disabilities and healthcare professionals to co-design personalised assistive technology solutions that meet unique needs.
Digital Manufacturing
We use cutting-edge digital manufacturing technology to produce high-quality, personalised assistive technology solutions quickly and efficiently.
Clinical Services
Members of our team are Clinical Scientists who provide comprehensive support to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the best possible care and assistance.
Research and Development
We are committed to ongoing research and development, continually improving our products and services to better meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.
OUR RESEARCH WORK
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY GALLERY
Take a look at some of our recent work funded by the Tidal N+. Concepts have been illustrated through wireframes, storyboards, service blueprints, user journey maps, renderings, and animations. Find out more about our research methods in the Portfolio section.
RESEARCH PAPERS
Howard, J., Bowtell, M., Fisher, Z., Tasker, L. H., & Tree, J. (2023) Can a previously co-designed device be used by others? A service evaluation of the use of the Sativex spray holder for individuals with multiple sclerosis. Disability and rehabilitation: Assistive technology, DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2023.2228344
Howard, J., Tasker, L. H., Fisher, Z., & Tree, J. (2022). Assessing the use of co-design to produce bespoke assistive technology solutions within a current healthcare service: a service evaluation. Disability and rehabilitation. Assistive technology, 1–10. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2022.2060355
Howard, J., Fisher, Z., Kemp, A., Lindsay, S., Tasker, L. & Tree, J. (2020). Exploring the
barriers to using assistive technology for individuals with chronic conditions: a metasynthesis
review. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive technology, 1-19.
Howard, J., Eggbeer, D., Dorrington, P., Korkees, F., Tasker, L. (2020). Evaluating additive manufacturing for the production of custom head supports: A comparison against a commercial head support under static loading conditions. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine, 458-467.