TechnoTalk - September 2010

VOLUME 19 - ISSUE 5 - SEPTEMBER 2010

We welcome any feedback, good or bad, that you may have on our service. Please feel free to contact us by phone on 02 9975 8469, email [email protected] or by writing to The Spastic Centre PO Box 184 Brookvale NSW 2100

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TechnoTalkN e w s l e t t e r

Apps Of The Month .....................................................1 Interfacing Powered Wheelchair Technology .............2 Tool Guide ...................................................................11

The world of technology is constantly growing, in both mainstream and disability specific products. We are also seeing increasing convergence in technology, such as smart phones incorporating computer access, and speech generating devices now on tablet PC platforms and incorporating infrared environmental controls. Other developments include increased functionality and adaptability in powered wheelchair controls, with many systems now having inbuilt infrared and Bluetooth capability. These features may allow wheelchair users with limited motor control to operate multiple devices with one method of input, e.g. using their wheelchair joystick to also operate the mouse on a computer. Previously, interfacing these types of technology was complex and costly, involving addition of various modules and cables to the wheelchair. Elizabeth Nade has investigated the main power wheelchair controls available on the Australian market with these interfacing capabilities, and has compiled a comparison matrix to assist in your decision making process.

This article is a summary of a full conference paper presented at the Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association (ARATA) national conference in Hobart, August 2010. For the full paper, check the ARATA website, www.arata.org.au/conf.php or contact the author, Elizabeth Nade, at [email protected].

Happy Reading

Liza

From the editor’s desk Apps Of The MonthHere are a few of our favourite apps this month for the iPhone and iPad. All apps are available to download from the App store in iTunes.

ShapeWriter – This app allows text entry using a single slide-type gesture, instead of the common “hunt and peck” often used on phone pads and keyboards. For example, a single stroke that roughly connects the letters “w”, “o”, “r” and “d” is recognised by the software’s algorithms as “word”. The manufacturers claim this can greatly enhance rate of text production. Suitable for iPhone, iTouch and iPad. Cost: $9.99 or $3.99 Lite version (does not allow landscape mode, sorting notes, customising fonts/colours or SMS support). There is also a free version which is more of a game. www.shapewriter.com/

A Special Phone – This app is a dialling system created for people who have difficulty accessing the standard iPhone key pad, e.g. people with vision and physical impairments. You can set up six quick dial numbers with photos which are accessed by shaking the iPhone to move through each number; the number you stop on dials automatically. There is also an enlarged number pad with auditory feedback of key presses. Suitable for iPhone. Cost $1.19. www.aspecialphone.com/

TechnoTalk

Power wheelchair technology has advanced greatly over recent years with new features such as Bluetooth (for mouse emulation) and infrared (for mouse emulation and environmental control) being readily available as an add-on or built-in to the power wheelchair electronics. This allows for greater interfacing of technology for a powered wheelchair user who has limited physical access sites to utilise technology.

Interfacing can be defined as sharing one single input device or access method to control multiple devices (Lange, 2008a). This could enable a powered wheelchair user to control their powered wheelchair, a speech generating device, have computer access and environmental control all through using

the single access method or input device they use to control their powered wheelchair. Additional components such as an infrared to X10 transceiver may be required to control lighting and other appliances around the home. An infrared and/or Bluetooth dongle may also need to be plugged into the computer to enable computer access using the powered wheelchair control.

In order to successfully interface powered mobility with other assistive technology, there are some specific components required. Most importantly, a holistic multi-disciplinary team approach is vital to ensure that new experiences with interfacing are successful and safe. Members of this team may include the

powered wheelchair user, their family and relevant carers, occupational therapist, speech pathologist, assistive technology specialist, equipment supplier and powered wheelchair users education team (if applicable).

Hardware components required for successful interfacing of technology include:

• A powered wheelchair with an expandable control.• An established access method for the powered wheelchair user. This may be a proportional control such as a joystick or chin control, or a non-proportional control such as head array, sip and puff, single or multiple switches with or without the scanning function.• A power on/off switch. External switch jacks are available on most controls, which enable the powered wheelchair user to access the on/off switch through an external switch mounted in a way that is accessible to them.• A mode/reset switch. This can also be utilised by an external switch, plugged into the assigned switch jack on the powered wheelchair control.• An interfacing module. Historically these have come in a range of separate, individual units for different functions, whereby one unit would control power actuators (tilt, recline, etc.), another unit would access a speech generating device and another unit would enable interfacing with an environmental control unit. Newer power wheelchair technologies now have units with these capabilities built-in, so generally only one extra module (called an interfacing module) is equired, with a connecting cable to the expandable wheelchair controller. The Interfacing module may also couple as an enhanced display and the expandable controller in some brands of powered wheelchair controls (e.g. PG Drives R-Net Omni, see Figure 3).

Interfacing Powered Wheelchair Technologyby Elizabeth Nade

2

Figure 2 - Quantum Expandable joystick and enhanced display

Figure 1 - Dynamics DX2 in mouse emulation

TechnoTalk

3

DynamicDX/Dx2

InvacareMk 6i

PG Drive TechnologyR- net

QuantumQ- Logic

CurtisenAble 50

TDX Series (SP, SI, Spree).Storm RWD series.Power Tiger.

G-Trac (Gyro Technology)

Yes.

Insert professional (SD) memory card into driver control – follow prompts. (Software upgrades available from web).

Factory settings for all modules installed.Plug & Play for all additional Modules.Programmer or SD card to modify for user needs.

Power Wheelchair Bases Supported

Tracking Technology

Ability to upgrade electronics

Initial system set-up

Glide Series 6, 7, 8, 9.Magic Mobility PWCs.AC Mobility PWCs.

No.

Yes.

Wizard Software computer program.

Through equipment supplier /manufacturer of PWC can structure the set-up of the wheelchair program to auto accept upgrades such as increased Actuator outputs, ECU recognised, etc.

Mouse mover function can be set up by manufacturer / equipment supplier to allow the function to be added/upgraded easily later.

Plug and Play.

Modules can be programmed and customised through Wizard Software.

Permobil Bases.Quickie Bases.Glide Bases.

No.

Yes.

‘Future Proofing’ feature (new modules can be added without programming).

Some modules are ‘flash; upgradeable.

Plug and PlayModules recognised and programmed automatically.

All Quantum PWCs.

Accu-Trac technology, only on Quantum 6000z.

Yes.

Software downloaded via computer.


Otto Bock PWC models: B600, C1000, DS, C2000, XenoSkippi Plus.

No.

Yes.

Software downloaded via computer.


Interfacing Powered Wheelchair Technology

The wheelchair controls then need to be programmed according to the user’s specific requirements and the user and their team trained in the operation of the control interface (Lange, 2008b).

With interfacing, there is increased system interdependence; if the powered wheelchair control requires servicing, or has broken, the powered wheelchair user’s means of accessing other assistive technology devices is compromised. This highlights the need for a back-up system, such as a low technology communication system and external computer access and environmental control hardware.

Interfacing is not indicated for every powered wheelchair user. The efficient use of an

interfaced system requires a level of physical, cognitive and sensory ability in order to access, understand and see the system and display (Lange, 2005). A thorough clinical assessment needs to be conducted with the powered wheelchair user and their multi-disciplinary team to determine if interfacing will be beneficial for the user.

For more information on interfacing, please feel free to contact TASC and speak with one of our consultants.

A power wheelchair electronics comparison matrix has been written, which aims to compare the main power wheelchair controls available on the Australian market that are capable of interfacing, in order to assist in the decision making for powered wheelchair prescription. Acknowledgement must go to Michelle Lange, for providing a basis of information for this matrix.

Figure 3 - R-Net Omni

TechnoTalk

Yes.

Help/Info key provides assistance on parameter affects.

Mk6 programmer works on Mk5 and Mk6.

Yes.

With Professional SD card.

Yes.

Professional SD card also gives detailed service help.

Yes.

With Professional SD card.

Yes.

Onto Basic or Professional SD card or computer.

Card can use USB card reader to view settings on computer.

4

Up to 13 standard programs each can be modified.

Yes.

Programmable.

Fully programmable with hand-held programmer.

Tremor dampening and traction parameters for each drive.

Separate acceleration parameters for forward, reverse and turns.

Yes.

Speed, acceleration, deceleration, tremor dampening, turn speeds, etc.

Limited.

Clock, display settings.

Yes.

Wizard Software.

Limited.

Clock, display settings.

Yes.

Saved as file onto Wizard Software, customise name of file.

System back-up mirror.

6

Single program of factory settings.

Fully customisable through Wizard Software.

Yes.

Programmable.

Fully programmable through hand-held programmer or Wizard Software.

Tremor dampening, separate acceleration, deceleration, turning speed parameters.Forward and reverse is also separately programmable on DX/DX2.

Yes.

On-board programmingUSB stick option for transferring files.

Mini USB port for connections to PC.

Yes.

On board programming can see 4 profiles at once.

Yes.

PC programming tool.

Yes.

Two access methods: key code or dongle.

Manufacturer determined.

Yes.

Through computer, can save to USB, customise name of file.

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Fully customisable through PC Programming Tool.

Yes.

Programmable.

Fully programmable.

Tremor dampening.

Separate acceleration parameters for forward, reverse and turn at minimum and maximum speeds in each profile.

Yes.

Limited.

Clock, language, trip odometer reset, reminders.

Yes.

PC Programming station.

Limited.

Clock, language, trip odometer reset, reminders.

Yes.

Through computer software.

5


Fully customisable through PC Programming Station.

Intuitive torque built-in (higher torque at lower speeds).

Fully programmable.

Turn sensitivity is the same as tremor dampening (per drive profile).

Yes.

Joystick calibratable by user Favourites menu.

Yes.

PC Programming station.

Joystick calibratable by user Favourites menu.

Yes


5


Fully customisable through PC Programming Station.

Programmable.

Fully programmable.

Separate hand-held programmer

Program through display

Program through computer

Consumer can program through access method

Memory back-up

Number of Drives/Profiles

Preset programs(Drive profiles, speeds, acceleration etc.)

Torque(turning force at PWC drive wheel)

Sensitivity (how quickly the wheelchair responds to joystick movement)

DynamicDX/Dx2

InvacareMk 6i


QuantumQ- Logic

CurtisenAble 50

4

Programming

Specific Programming Parameters

TechnoTalk

DynamicDX/Dx2

Yes.

Program last drive used or specific profile.

Yes.

Two contrast settings: indoor and outdoor.

Yes

100% Icon Based Menu Structure

N/A.

Customised range of icons, set up by manufacturer.

Yes.

No.

Can use display on multi purpose joystick, but is small.

Can use G91, G91s display (LED).

Can use iPortal with iPhone, iTouch, iPad.

On/off, left and right indicator, drive profile selection, accessory mode selection, horn, two programmable function buttons labelled I and II.

Limited: clock and display settings.Computer software downloadable through website.

InvacareMk 6i

Yes.

Program last drive used or specific profile.

Currently standard on multi purpose joystick.Coming on Rehab display 2010.

Yes.

English.

Symbol support.

Yes.

With hand-held programmer or professional SD card.

Enhanced view mode enlarges icons.

Yes.

Some with combined text.

No.

Can use display on multi purpose joystick, however is small.

Additional display is available.

On/off, drive select, mode and speed dial.SPJ has horn, actuator control, speed selector.

Require professional SD card or hand-held programmer.


No.

Goes to last profile used.

Yes.

Two contrast options: indoor and outdoor.

Yes.

All text is programmable meaning all European languages can be supported.

Yes.

Throughcomputersoftware.

Programmable option of large momentary screens when changing speed or profile.Highlighted user menu items are enlarged.

Yes.

Some with programmable text, e.g.: mode names.

No.

Can use display on multi purpose joystick.

Additional display is available.

Profiles, mode, power, speed up and down, horn.

User cannot access program unless they have onboard programming enabled. Can disable speed buttons on joystick or display through programming.

QuantumQ- Logic

No.

Goes to last profile used.

Yes.

Yes.

English, German, Spanish, Italian, French.

Yes.

Through computer software

No.

Many.

Not designed to replace text.

Yes.

Need enhanced display to support alternative access

Joystick Control: power and mode toggle, auxiliary menu button, horn, speed dial, two programmable buttons, labelled I and II. Program through computer.Enhanced Display (for alt access): power, mode.

User can only change clock, trip odometer, profiles and reminders.

Consumer can purchase hand-held programmer or computer software for full access.

CurtisenAble 50

Yes.

Yes.

Yes.

Icon based.

Yes.


No.

Yes.

Yes.

Need enhanced display to support alternative access.

On/Off, mode, profile, lights, indicators, horn, hazard lights.

Joystick can be calibrated by user.

Ability to program which profile to start when turn on power

Colour Display

Backlit display

Languages Supported

Customise text wording

Change font size

Icons/graphics

Additional display required for alternate controls

Buttons on control unit

Consumer access to Functions

Control Unit

5

TechnoTalk

DynamicDX/Dx2

3Power on/off or emergency stop.Other two are fully programmable to control drive profile or non drive functions.

Monitored switches, so will log a fault code if they are broken.

Yes.

Function Button (labelled I and II). Can set these up as shortcuts to particular actuator for user direct access.

Yes.

Hold down power on/off button PWC will go into lock mode.

When power back on will come up as locked; to unlock hit horn button twice within 10 seconds and PWC will unlock.

Feature can be turned on or off.

iPhone, iTouch, iPad can be used as display and added environmental control using added iPortal module.

InvacareMk 6i

2 Power on/offMode selection with up to two available programmable functions using a splitter or stereo switch.

No.

No.


2Power on/off Mode.

YesMode selection in standby.

Any mode or profile can be entered via joystick from standby.

Yes.

Either button sequence or key.

Fully programmable.

Clock, speed display, mode name and text profile name programmable.

QuantumQ- Logic

Joystick Control: 2Power on/off Mode: simple and advanced programming. Simple: cycles through modes, Advanced: short switch press cycles through drive profiles, long switch press toggles between drive profiles and auxiliary and seat functions.

Enhanced Display: 2: Power on/off Mode.

Both: smart switch feature. If enabled long switch press will power system off. Short switch command powers system on and subsequent short switch presses cycles through profiles.

Yes.

Can program a “quick access list” of desired shortcuts that are shown when wheelchair goes into standby.

Yes.

System lock can be programmed into a drive profile.

Can download digital photos to display, also has clock M/H or Km/H, battery %, trip odometer.

CurtisenAble 50

Joystick Control: 2Power on/off Mode: simple and advanced programming. Simple: cycles through modes, Advanced: short switch press cycles through drive profiles, long switch press toggles between drive profiles and auxiliary and seat functions.

Enhanced Display: 2: Power on/off Mode.

Both: smart switch feature. If enabled long switch press will power system off. Short switch command powers system on and subsequent short switch presses cycles through profiles.

Yes.

Can program a list of favourites.

Yes.

System lock can be programmed into a drive profile.

Can download photos to display.

Trip odometer an option.

Switch Jacks on control unit

Shortcut menu on display

Locking feature to prevent external access to wheelchair

Other

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TechnoTalk

DynamicDX/Dx2

InvacareMk 6i


QuantumQ- Logic

CurtisenAble 50

Multiple joystick styles.

Buttons I and II can be programmed as speed dial.Quick press will give an incremental increase / reduction in speed.Long press will give step through increments in increase/reduction in speed.

See above parameters; all compatible with joystick access.

DX-SNP for Sip ‘n’ Puff.

DX-ACC4B for head array, switched inputs (9-pin port).

No interface required for alternative proportional controls.

Up to 4 driver controls: joystick, alternate, attendant, DX-ACC4B switch drive control input.

Many different options for input and drive control, however one master, one alternate RJM option and attendant control can be fitted at same time.

Choose drive profile programmed for specific input device.

Multiple joystick styles.Joystick speed dial (Tortoise/Hare).

See above parameters, all compatible with joystick access.

Digital interface for Sip ‘n’ Puff.

No interface required for alternative proportional controls (available with Mk6i connector).

Up to 4 Driver controls and proportional attendant control.

Choose drive profile programmed for specific input device.

Proportional attendant when on overrides driver input device. When turned off, auto resumes to last driver input.

Multiple joystick styles.

Joystick speed buttons.

See above, all parameters compatible with joystick access.

Omni Specialty Interface: 9-pin port.

Separate Sip ‘n’ Puff module.

One on the multi purpose joystick.

Two on Omni display.

System can support up to 14 Omnis with 2 access methods each.

Choose profile programmed for specific input device.

Joystick speed dial and toggle on/off and mode.

Joystick, if deflected more than 50%, will act as switched joystick when programmed.

See above parameters all accessible with joystick access.

Enhanced display: 9-pin port.

Sip ‘n’ Puff Interface.

Up to 4 driver controls: joystick, stand alone, attendant, specialty.

Assign input device using power button for that specific device.

When power on wheelchair using specific input device, need to control wheelchair by that device.

To change input devices, need to turn chair off and on again in desired device.

Multiple joystick styles available.

Enhanced display: 9-pin port.

Sip ‘n’ Puff Interface.

Up to 4 driver controls: joystick, stand alone, attendant, specialty.

Yes, but requires reprogramming.

Joystick

Component required for alternate access connection

Number of alternate input devices that can be connected

Transfer of control between alternate input devices: e.g. head array, attendant control, Sip ‘n’ Puff, etc.

7

Access Method Specifics

TechnoTalk

DynamicDX/Dx2

InvacareMk 6i


QuantumQ- Logic

CurtisenAble 50

Access to reverse options:Two options:1. External switch for reverse, joystick only mode through Time Escape (standby) function.2. External switch in 3 Quadrant mode. Uses method of short press/long press.

Short press will toggle between reverse or forward directions.

Long press will scan through drive and non drive (seating) modes.

Programmable long and short press to match user needs.

Fully programmable with hand-held programmer or through Wizard Software.

Display through G91 or using iPortal with iPhone, iTouch or iPad.

5 switch module (DX-ACC4B).

Will recognise two switch inputs at same time for more proportional control.

Require G91s.

Single switch operation or configure with 3 switches.

Customisable scan sequence.

Can use added switches to shortcut back to main menu.

Access to reverse options: Two options:1. Mode switch: 1st activation chooses reverse. Programming – enable RIM control.2. Bypass mode switch by programming “standby select”. Once in standby, left driver command activates reverse driving. Forward command activates forward driving.

4 pressureDigital interface.

Pressure programmable in all 4 quadrants.

Supports single, 3, 4, 5 switch access.

Requires external scanner.

ASL digital interface.

Access to reverse options:Two options:1. Mode switch: single operation toggles direction.2. Rear pad: double tap goes into reverse.

Two axis option for seating actuator control.

4 pressureBuilt into Omni display.

Programmable dead band (neutral zone where no action occurs) and ramp up/down time.

Supports single, 3, 4, 5 switch access.

4 directions on display.

Can scan all wheelchair functions.

Access to reverse options:Two options:1. Mode switch: 2nd activation chooses reverse.2. Rear pad: first activation toggles direction, second activation drives.

All programmable.

2 or 4 pressure option.

Separate module required. Can latch for menu to scroll to desired mode.

Separate Sip ‘n’ Puff switch available for power on/off and mode.

Supports single 2, 3, 4, 5 switch access with enhanced display.

4 or 8 direction on display.

Can customise scan pattern around screen.

Can scan mode option.

Can customise scan speed.

Access to reverse options: Two options:1. Mode switch: 2nd activation chooses reverse.2. Rear pad: first activation toggles direction, second activation drives.

All programmable.

2 or 4 pressure option.

Separate module required. Can latch for menu to scroll to desired mode.

Separate Sip ‘n’ Puff switch available for power on/off and mode.

Supports single 2, 3, 4, 5 switch access with enhanced display.

4 or 8 direction on display.

Can customise scan pattern around screen.

Can scan mode option.

Can customise scan speed.

Head Array

Sip ‘n’ Puff

Switch Access

Single Switch Scanning

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TechnoTalk

DynamicDX/Dx2

InvacareMk 6i


QuantumQ- Logic

CurtisenAble 50

Drive profiles, seating functions, ECU.

Time escape (programmable time).

Scroll back through menus.

Sleep.

Programmable time, any input awakens.

Customisable.

Yes.

Two programmable buttons on joystick display (labelled I and II).

Yes.

Manual Scroll.

Left/right navigates, forward command selects.

Timed escape method can get back into main home page.

Drive profile is circular scanning system.

Seating functions and ECU are column basis.

Reverse, automatic positioning, powered seating functions, drive select, auxiliary.

Standby select: (programmable time).

Allows driver control to select next operating mode after wheelchair enters standby using directional command.

Standby can be disabled in ECU mode.

Sleep.

Programmable time (previously called standby mode). Mode switch required to re-awaken.

No.

Yes.

Manual Scroll.

Directional switches navigate, mode switch selects.

Programmable.

3 scanning types:Modified row/column, sequential, enhanced.

All with adjustable speed and initiation time.

Drive profiles, seating functions, auxiliary.

Sequence programmable.

Yes

Adjustable time or via mode jack socket switch.

Can enter all modes/profiles from standby.

Programmable direction commands.

Yes.

Programmable time.

Yes.

Profile button can be re-assigned to be able to access both profiles and modes.

Yes.

Manual scroll.

Forward command moves up displayed list.

Reverse moves down.Right command selects.Left moves back a level.

Programmable.

Auto scroll.

Adjustable speedRight selects and left moves back a level.

Drive profiles, seating functions, auxiliary.

Fully programmable.

Standby select: (programmable time).

Goes back to profiles menu.

Yes.

Programmable time.

Yes.

Two programmable buttons on joystick display.

Yes.

Manual scroll.

Forward command moves up displayed list.

Reverse moves down.Right selects.Left moves back a level.

Cruise Control: holding down the forward or reverse command will continue to scan after programmed amount of time.

Auto Scroll.

Adjustable speedRight selects and left moves back a level.

Drive profiles, seating functions, favourites.

Fully programmable.

Yes

Programmable.

Yes.

Programmable time.

Yes.

Yes.

Manual scroll.

Right scrolls clockwise, forward selects.

Auto scroll.

Mode Switch Sequence

Standby Option

Sleep Mode

Shortcut Buttons

Separate Switch for Actuators

Display Function Navigation: Manual (alt access)

Display Function Navigation: Scanning (alt access)

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TechnoTalk

DynamicDX/Dx2

InvacareMk 6i


QuantumQ- Logic

CurtisenAble 50

No.

Auditory feedback switch on/off, reverse beepers, changing modes.

DX- IRIS Infrared and Bluetooth (mouse mover only).

Can use iPortal module with iPhone, iTouch, iPad for ‘advanced display’ type functions using 3rd part devices such as Redeye, Wi-Fi mouse mover.

YesGEWA codes

Yes.

Yes.

Through IR/X-10 converter (not included).

Yes.

IR Phone not included. DX- IRIS or DX-MTX.

Also requires DX-PCMR receiver to plug into computer.

Can get separate mouse mover modules.

DX-IRIS or iPortal to utilise iPhone, iTouch or iPad applications and features.

Separate attendant control profile.

Fully programmable.

No.

Auditory feedback available for screen/mode changes.

Different beeps used for different modes.

IR/Mouse emulator all in one unit.

Can carry 6 devices plus X-10.

Yes.

Yes.

Yes.


Not in Australia.

No.

Available with IR module.

All in one unit.

IR/ Mouse Emulator all in one module.ECU module/s for after market devices.

Power control.

Doesn’t use up a profile.If attendant control is on, driver access method will not operate.

Fully programmable.

No.

Auditory feedback to indicate profile, operating mode or selection on User menu.

Omni Specialty Interface with IR control.

Yes.

Yes.

Yes.

With Omni Speciality Interface and IR/X10 converter (not included).

Yes.

IR Phone not included.

Yes.

Bluetooth built into Rnet control.

Omni Speciality Interface.

Uses profile 8 as standard.Can be programmed to any profile(s).Can access all user modes or programmable to specific modes.

No.

Auditory feedback to indicate profile, operating mode or selection on User menu.

Enhanced display has IR and Bluetooth for mouse emulator only.

No.

Yes.

Up to 280 separate commands. Macros up to 3 commands.

Yes.


Yes.


Yes.

Bluetooth.

Enhanced Display.

Power control.

Doesn’t use up a profile.

Drive method selected depends where wheelchair is turned on. If want attendant control, need to power on through attendant control.

No.

Enhanced display has IR and Bluetooth for mouse emulator only.

No.

Yes.

Yes.


Yes.

Bluetooth.

Enhanced Display.

Power control.Mode switch.It has 2 jacks for On/Off and Mode.

Can be programmed.If attendant control is on, driver access method will not operate.

Display Function Navigation: Auditory (speech) Scanning (alt access)

Signal output

Preset Codes (ECU)

Learning

X-10 Control

Telephone

Mouse Emulation (built-in)

Component required for interfacing

Attendant Control features

Other Built-in Features

Interfacing External Assistive Technology Devices (e.g.: Speech Generating Device)

Attendant Control

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TechnoTalk

The Spastic Centre 321 Mona Vale Road Terrey Hills NSW 2084T: 02 9479 7200 F: 02 9479 7233E: [email protected]: www.TheSpasticCentre.com.au

ReferencesLange, M. (2005, January 21). Interfacing assistive technology with power wheelchairs. Workshop presented at 21st International Seating Symposium. Wyndham Palace Resort & Spa. Orlando, Florida, USA.

Lange, M.L. (2008a). Streamlining access: Making assistive technology work together. Advance for Occupational Therapy Practitioners. Retrieved November 3, 2009, from http://occupational-therapy.advanceweb.com/Article/Streamlining-Access.aspx

Lange, M.L. (2008b). Interfacing, Part V: Controlling electronic aids to daily living through power wheelchair drive controls. Advance for Occupational Therapy Practitioners. Retrieved November 3, 2009, from http://occupational-therapy.advanceweb.com/Article/Interfacing-Part-V.aspx

Lange, M.L. (2008c). New power wheelchair electronics comparison matrix. Retrieved November 3, 2009, from http://atilange.com/New_wheelchair_electronics,%20final%20version,%206.08.pdf

Acknowledgements

The following equipment suppliers have contributed to this comparison matrix:

Mark Hewitt: Dynamic Controls

Andrew Rousham: Invacare Australia

Iain Hogg: Specialised Wheelchair Company

Tim Mason: Dejay Rehabilitation and Mobility Equipment

Jacinta Maurin: Otto Bock

TASC EQUIPMENT SERVICESTool Guide - Choosing the correct tool for the job!

When making adjustments to components on a piece of equipment, such as a wheelchair, there are usually a variety of nuts, bolts and screws that need to be accessed.

Choosing the correct tool to either undo or tighten any particular fastening is essential, as the wrong spanner, Allen key or screw driver can damage the attachment irreparably, and make future adjustments much more difficult or impossible.

Nuts and Bolts

Metric or Imperial?There are two basic types of thread forms; metric and imperial, which relates to the different style of assorted fastenings that are used by various manufacturers around the world. Metric nuts and bolts require metric tools; imperial nuts and bolts require imperial tools.

Metric spanners and Allen keys have a number and the millimeter measurement (e.g. 6mm) written into the tool, imperial tools will have a fraction of an inch dimension written on (e.g. ¾”).

As a general rule the American manufacturers, e.g. Invacare, will be using imperial thread forms. All other manufacturers from Europe and the rest of the world will generally use metric thread forms. This is however only a general rule, and there is often a mixture of both kinds of fixtures on any one device. The best practice is to have as full a set of tools as possible to hand. It is important that not only the correct type of tool is used (e.g. metric) but also the correct size, especially for Allen keys.

Allen Keys Spanners Adjustable Spanner

Sockets Flat Head Phillips Head

IF IT DOESN’T FIT NICELY, TRY A DIFFERENT SIZE

Nuts Bolts Nuts & Bolts

Documents

TechnoTalk - September 2010