Principles for fostering the transdisciplinary development of assistive technologies

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology Design

Background:

• Developing assistive technologies involves complex, multifaceted challenges often termed 'wicked problems'.
• Effective solutions necessitate input from diverse disciplines and sectors, moving beyond traditional research boundaries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present generalized principles for fostering transdisciplinary collaboration in assistive technology development.
• To provide a framework for addressing complex challenges in the design and implementation of assistive technologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of transdisciplinary collaboration concepts, approaches, methodologies, and frameworks.
• Application of developed principles to the COACH project, an ambient-assisted living technology for older adults with dementia.

Main Results:

• The paper outlines principles for effective transdisciplinary assistive technology development.
• The COACH project serves as a case study illustrating the application of these principles.

Conclusions:

• Transdisciplinarity enables a holistic understanding of real-world problems, leading to innovative and impactful assistive technologies.
• This collaborative approach enhances the scope, applicability, and commercial viability of rehabilitation technologies.