Hi Gareth.

I have no problem with supplying switch systems for EPIOC's as long as
suitable equipment is used.

For example, QED "Dreadnought" range of switches are rated for use in
inclement weather, and benefit from using screened cable for EMC purposes.

When these are installed into a suitable manifold box that provides
environmental protection for the 3.5mm stereo Jack plugs, ( i.e. they are
inside the box), then this provides a secure and reliable system for outdoor
use.

Our own PG8 based Switch input device is fully water proof when the correct
connectors are used. There are various types of switches available that are
or can be water proofed. The rest of the electro-mechanical components must
be built to the highest standards for robustness and reliability. Commercial
components that don't have sufficient environmental protection can be
protected by installing them inside bigger  boxes using foam glanding where
cables enter or exit the enclosure for instance.

I agree with your comments regarding chin controls, but mounting the
controls from a client mounted chest plate may help with this problem, I
have found this successful in the past. There are other ways around this
problem by using supplementary switches for instance.

As you suggest, the client's condition may impair their ability to stop,
look, and listen etc, but this is so in any EPIOC provision. If someone is
clearly a proficient driver using Special Controls on an EPIC, then this
should not be a problem. The EPIOC practical test should be the final say in
in this regard.

EMC issues with modified chairs can also be addressed by suitable testing.

In addition to all the above, adherence to the requirements of the Medical
Devices Directive, and possibly the introduction of a quality control
procedure such as ISO9001 all go towards having robust systems in place to
reliably manufacture modifications in a controlled and repeatable manner.

Not all risks can be reduced or eliminated, but many of them can be
engineered out by good design and robust construction.

Hope this helps.

Best regards,

          Geoff

G.J.Harbach   I.Eng  MIED  IIPEM
Clinical Technologist
Special Controls Service Manager
Posture & Mobility Services
West Midlands Rehabilitation Centre
91 Oak Tree Lane, Selly Oak
Birmingham, B29 6JA
Tel 0121  627 8941




-----Original Message-----
From: Gareth Adkins [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 17 November 2003 10:59
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Special Controls for EPIOCs


Dear All,

I wanted to get a range of opinions on the following issue:

Should special controls, particularly switch controls of various
configurations be used for indoor/outdoor powered wheelchairs, bearing in
mind the following.

General physical ability to stop, look listen etc for crossing road may be
impaired due to condition.
Switch controls particularly chin switches could be dangerous to use in
conjunction with a kerbclimber.
Switches such as buddy buttons are not rated for use in inclement weather.

What do other people think, particularly on the last point

(I can hear the phrase 'risk assessment' already!)

Regards

Gareth

Gareth Adkins
Clinical Bioengineer
Westmarc
Southern General Hospital
1345 Govan Road
Glasgow
G51 4TF
Tel: 0141 201 1463
Fax: 0141 201 2648




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