Hi Geoff,
I'm just wondering where you got the information for rating switches
for outdoor/inclement weather? Even better, where would I get that
sort of information? :-)
Cheers,
Aidan Parr.
MSC Assistive Technology
Kings College London
On Mon, 17 Nov 2003 13:34:39 -0000 Harbach Geoff
<[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> 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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Aidan Parr
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