Alicia Koontz trying out a robot arm mounted on a wheelchair

Robotic devices can replace or augment a person's manipulation skills thus reducing attendant care, improving self-worth, promoting mental stimulation, and allowing greater interaction and control of the physical environment. Further clinical evaluation is necessary to determine the potential of this technology to improve the functional independence and quality of life of veterans with severe physical disabilities. The purpose of this outcomes research service directed project is to evaluate the effect of a wheelchair mounted robotic arm (WMRA) to improve functional independence. Its overall value in providing independent living assistance and vocational support wifi be assessed with 30 individuals with tetraplegia (15 from Houston VAMC and 15 from Pittsburgh VAMC). Marker tasks in four major categories will be identified including activities of daily living, vocational tasks, advanced tasks, and subject-specific tasks. The study is intended to determine if the ability to perform marker tasks within the four categories is improved after the training and use periods (2 weeks). A secondary research question pertains to changes in quality of life (health status and life satisfaction) as effected by the use of the robotic arm. Additionally, the study intends to evaluate the following: 1) ease of installation and usefulness of instructional manuals; 2) training requirements (time, tasks); 3) safety features; 4) reliability of the device; 5) home, community, and vocational applications; 6) user acceptability; 7) maintenance! service; 8) portability; and 9) improvements and modifications.