Carleton University is at the forefront of accessibility and inclusive design research, driving innovation through collaboration with industry, community partners and researchers. The Abilities Living Laboratory, housed in Carleton’s state-of-the-art ARISE (Advanced Research and Innovation in Smart Environments) Building, exemplifies this commitment by providing a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment for developing and testing new technologies that enhance quality of life and foster full participation in society.
Centred on the “nothing about us, without us” imperative, the lab engages people with disabilities directly in accessibility research and innovation. Its malleable design supports collaboration among end-users, external partners and researchers – enabling the creation of solutions that enhance independence and accessibility for all.
Human Performance Laboratory
The Human Performance Laboratory features high tech equipment that allows researchers to study how subjects balance and move. From advanced motion capture systems to an instrumented treadmill and staircase to wearable physiological monitoring systems, the lab creates an environment that facilitates the development of solutions to everyday accessibility issues.
Rehabilitation Robotics Laboratory
In the Rehabilitation Robotics Laboratory, researchers work to improve the quality of life of those who are managing health conditions such as strokes and cerebral palsy. Researchers have the space to design robots that use AI models to learn patients’ motion patterns and inform the development of supports to assist in recovery and enhancing personal mobility for people with disabilities.
Design Laboratory
The Design Laboratory is a flexible space that can be used to simulate and evaluate a range of environments and features of environments, such as a patient space or air cabin. The space includes magnetic whiteboard walls, a series of changeable wall mounting systems and fully adjustable lighting control. By creating these experimental spaces, research teams are able to closely explore how people interact with products, environments and other individuals.
Food Design Laboratory
The Food Design Laboratory gives researchers the ability to create nutritious foods with different visual, textural, structural and olfactory attributes. The lab’s 3D printer allows for the study of personalized food manufacturing for people who have difficulties eating – such as swallowing food. It can also be used to tailor foods that appeal to people who experience loss of appetite or food aversions due to medical conditions.
We Are All Musicians Laboratory
The We Are All Musicians Laboratory is a space devoted to research focused on making music as inclusive as possible. Taking the perspective of music making as a fundamental human right, regardless of musical training or ability, the lab allows for testing and development of assistive and adaptive musical instruments.
Carleton’s research excellence continues to advance solutions that address complex societal challenges. Though interdisciplinary collaboration and state-of-the-art facilities, researchers are pioneering new approaches in accessibility, health, rehabilitation and inclusive design. By fostering innovation and knowledge co-creation, Carleton is shaping a future where accessibility and inclusion are embedded in technological and social progress.
Learn more about research taking place in the Abilities Living Laboratory:
- All-Around Accessibility: New Carleton Lab Enhances Inclusion Research
- Stopping Infectious Diseases: Researchers Develop Rapid-Response Treatment Centre
- The Future of Food: New Lab Cooking Up Innovative 3D Printed Meals
Monday, March 10, 2025 in Faculty of Engineering and Design, Health, Music
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