Journal Club Article: Meyer, J.T., Gassert, R. & Lambercy, O. An analysis of usability evaluation practices and contexts of use in wearable robotics. J Neuro Engineering Rehabil 18, 170 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-021-00963-8
This study provides insights into the current application landscape of wearable robotics. The current practices and specified the contexts of use of wearable robots for human augmentation, assistance and/or therapy. The most targeted body area by current Wearable Robotic Devices (WRD) were the lower limbs (n = 81), out of which 82.7% reported a use for medical application. For the medical applications were for therapy and assistance, other groups where visually impaired, essential tremor, trauma, rhabdomyolysis, peripheral artery disease, first responders (emergency), physical training and exercise, and sports injuries.
Additional Resources
Christ O, Jokisch M, Preller J, Beckerle P, Wojtusch J, Rinderknecht S, von Stryk O, Vogt J. User-Centered Prosthetic Development: Comprehension of Amputees’ Needs. Biomedical Engineering / Biomedizinische Technik (SI-1 Track-R). 2012.
Shah SGS, Robinson I. Benefits of and barriers to involving users in medical device technology development and evaluation. Int J Technol Assessment Health Care. 2007;23(1):1317.
Shah SGS, Robinson I, AlShawi S. Developing medical device technologies from users’ perspectives: a theoretical framework for involving users in the development process. Int J Technol Assessment Health Care. 2009;25(4):514–21.