An Introduction to Rehabilitation Engineering

Focuses on the principles, modeling, standards, devices, and technologies of rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology. This book describes various design models and processes, including participatory action design and service delivery models. It discusses the components of devices such as cushions, wheelchairs, prostheses, and orthoses.

Answering the widespread demand for an introductory book on rehabilitation engineering (RE), Dr. Rory A. Cooper, a distinguished RE authority, and his esteemed colleagues present An Introduction to Rehabilitation Engineering. This resource introduces the fundamentals and applications of RE and assistive technologies (ATs).

After providing a brief introduction, the book describes the models for AT service delivery, the design tools and principles of universal design, and various technology-transfer mechanisms, models, and principles. The text then explains the process for creating assistive device standards, followed by a review of seating biomechanics and soft tissue biomechanics. Subsequent chapters examine design and service delivery principles of wheelchairs and scooters, functional electrical stimulation and its applications, wheelchair-accessible transportation legislation, and the applications of robotics in medical rehabilitation. The book proceeds to discuss prosthetic and orthotic design and usage, visual and hearing impairment, Web-related AT, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technology. It concludes with an introduction to adaptive sports and recreation.

Incorporating the critical aspects of RE and AT, An Introduction to Rehabilitation Engineering focuses on the principles, modeling, standards, devices, and technologies of RE and AT. It presents a concise yet complete overview of RE to provide a solid foundation in the subject as well as to stimulate further study.