The REHAB-LAB model for individualized assistive device co-creation and production

ABSTRACT

Assistive devices are designed to enhance individuals with disabilities’ functional abilities. The rise of 3D printing technology enabled the production of individualized assistive devices (IADs). A REHAB-LAB is intended for IAD provision involving technical referents and occupational therapists. This study aimed to develop the REHAB-LAB logic model; to explore its fidelity and desirability; and to explore the characteristics of arising initiatives of IAD production. The REHAB-LAB logic model development involved stakeholders throughout the research process. A pragmatic multimethod approach followed two phases 1) logic model development and 2) exploration of its fidelity and desirability. The REHAB-LAB logic model presented the resources (equipment, space, human) required to implement IAD provision in a rehabilitation center, and the expected deliverables (activities and outputs). The REHAB-LAB logic model highlights the interdisciplinarity of IAD provision including occupational therapists, doctors, engineers, managers, and technical referents and places the users at the center of the IAD production. Results confirmed the fidelity and desirability of the REHAB-LAB logic model. The REHAB-LAB logic model can be used as a reference for future healthcare organizations wishing to implement an IAD provision. This research highlighted the interest of IAD provision based on the REHAB-LAB model involving users and transdisciplinary practices

KEYWORDS:

• 3D-printing
• assistive technology
• co-design
• co-development
• logic model
• occupational therapy
• user-centered design

Disclosure statement

Willy Allègre is the co-founder of REHAB-LAB concept. Willy Allègre and Francesco Gherardini both work in a REHAB-LAB respectively in France and Italy. Other authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the French Caisse Nationale de Solidarité pour l’Autonomie (CNSA) under Grant number 00790; and was carried out within the Handicap Innovation Territoire project, supported by the French Government as part of France 2030 - Territoires d’innovation program for innovative territories, and was administered by the “Banque des Territoires”. Marie-Eve Lamontagne and François Routhier are Researchers Scholar from the Fonds de recherche du Québec - Santé.