Forum Proceedings

Locate Technology Solutions

Outcomes from the Stakeholder Forum and all prior work were used to generate problem statements. Problem statements outline the need for technology; technology state-of-the-practice for products currently in the market; specifications and parameters for the 'ideal technology solution;' and barriers/impediments that must be overcome to achieve this ideal technology.

T²RERC is disseminating the problem statements to Federal Laboratories, advanced technology manufacturers, research institutions and other technology developers. Proposed technology solutions are submitted to T²RERC. Initially, all submitted technology solutions are non-proprietary.

T²RERC and the partner RERC screen proposed technology solutions. Technical and industry experts review appropriate technology solutions to confirm that these solutions address the problem and are technically feasible. Following the initial review, proprietary information may be requested from the technology developer. The protection of intellectual property is the responsibility of all parties involved in this exchange.

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Transfer the Technology Solution

The T²RERC will prepare a commercialization package that summarizes the end-user needs being met, market opportunity, technical solutions, and the business plan for transferring the technology to market. A marketing plan will be developed to contact and present the commercialization package to targeted manufacturers.

The transfer of technology can be completed through mechanisms such as direct licensing of technology to a manufacturer; or a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA) between a federal lab and a manufacturer.

We expect to continue disseminating the problem statements indefinitely, or at least until an appropriate solution is identified and transferred. Anyone who has potential solutions to the problem statements developed from this project is encouraged to submit them to T²RERC via the Internet at (http://cosmos.buffalo.edu/hearing/).

The purpose of this endeavor is to match new technologies or those that were originally used for other applications, with manufacturers who can bring the technology to market. The end result will be new and improved assistive technology devices that will enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities.

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