Introducing assistive technology to engineering students

This paper describes the experience of the Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering at the University of Toledo and the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Medical College of Ohio during the past six years in introducing engineering students to Assistive Technology. This is done during the conduct of a senior design project where students develop custom designed devices for physically disabled individuals within the Toledo community. The goal of these projects is to assist disabled individuals to enjoy life and to realize their maximum potential. These projects significantly enhance the education of student engineers through the experience of designing and building devices to meet a real need with feedback on how well the device satisfies that need.