ATDev Partners in $41 Million Initiative to Revolutionize Robotic Mobility and Independence

Assistive Technology Development, Inc. (ATDev) has recently announced its involvement as a subcontractor for the Robotic Assistive Mobility and Manipulation Platform (RAMMP) program. This initiative, awarded to the University of Pittsburgh and backed by the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), is set to receive significant funding amounting to up to $41 million.

A Vision of Independence

The RAMMP program, led by Principal Investigator Dr. Rory Cooper, seeks to forge a path toward the future of assistive technology, harnessing cutting-edge robotics and artificial intelligence to enhance the autonomy of people with disabilities. The overarching goal is to enable users to achieve greater independence in their daily lives.

Todd Roberts, CEO and co-founder of ATDev, expressed his enthusiasm for being part of this transformative project. He stated, “The RAMMP program, supported by the ARPA-H investment, represents a national commitment to transforming independence through robotics.” Roberts emphasized ATDev's commitment to leveraging its extensive expertise in assistive technology research and development to redefine independence for millions of Americans.

Innovating the Next Generation of Robotic Wheelchairs

ATDev's specific contributions to the RAMMP initiative include spearheading the design and development of a new operating system tailored for assistive technologies. This system will be foundational for the next generation of medical robotics, incorporating advanced AI controls, sensor systems, and user interfaces to facilitate safe and independent navigation.

Owen Kent, CMO and co-founder of ATDev, remarked, “This is the future of mobility. By bridging our commercial work in affordable assistive technology with cutting-edge robotics research, we're taking a major step toward a world where every person, regardless of physical ability, can move freely and live with dignity.”

Collaboration Across Disciplines

The RAMMP initiative builds upon decades of pioneering research at the University of Pittsburgh's Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL). This renowned institution is recognized globally for its advancements in rehabilitation and assistive robotics. Dr. William Emfinger will be joining ATDev as the Principal Investigator and Chief Technology Officer, bringing invaluable experience from his prior roles in leading assistive technology companies like Max Mobility and Permobil.

ATDev is also collaborating with a stellar group of partners, including notable academic institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University, Cornell University, Northeastern University, and Purdue University, along with innovative robotics companies like Kinova Robotics and LUCI Mobility. This multidisciplinary team is committed to transforming advanced robotic concepts into accessible, scalable, and user-friendly assistive devices.

A Commitment to Accessible Technology

This project is not only ambitious but also embodies a commitment to making assistive technology accessible to those who need it most. The integration of advanced robotics and AI into everyday mobility aids promises to redefine what is achievable for individuals with disabilities. By focusing on the needs of users and their independence, ATDev and its partners are poised to make significant strides forward.

The funding for this research initiative comes, in part, from the ARPA-H, affirming the federal commitment to harnessing innovation for improving health outcomes. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of investing in technologies that empower individuals, ensuring that independence is not just a goal but a reality for many.

In conclusion, the RAMMP initiative is set to pave the way for a new era in assistive technology, one where individuals with disabilities can navigate their environments with greater ease and autonomy. As ATDev takes an active role in this exciting project, the future looks promising for groundbreaking advancements in robotic mobility and independence.