Ottawa-based not-for-profit company Precarn Inc. is partnering with York University to create research network focused on developing technology to help seniors and people with disabilities.

The organizations are sponsoring the Intelligent Computational Assistive Science and Technology (ICAST) network, which will increase co-operation between academia and the private sector in the research and development of mobility and communication aids, smart homes and other assistive technology.

"We are putting our heads together to ensure we benefit from each other's research and focus on what is needed, whether it is mobility technology that senses surroundings and helps people with disabilities interact with their environments, or technology that can increase safety for seniors in their homes," said ICAST chair John Tsotsos, who is a computer science and engineering professor at York.

Some of the projects the researchers are working include self-guided wheelchairs, wearable robotics, and smart homes which can anticipate occupants' needs.

"Technologies for assistive devices can be very complex; this collaboration will apply precious resources to solve tough problems, create unique solutions, and get them to market faster," said Precarn chief executive Paul Johnston. "Developing solutions together through an assistive technologies R&D network will have enormous social and economic benefit."