Wheelchair modification
27th April 2014
An expensive lightweight wheelchair had been purchased to make loading an easier task for the carer. However, the position of the front wheels did not allow chair near enough to the vehicle to allow ease of transfer without damaging the paintwork on sills.
The solution was to cut out approximately 100mm in front of castering wheels, bend and shorten upright. Connecting tube was then plugged and pinned prior to saddling and re-connection with a setscrew.
Modification allows the wheelchair nearer to the vehicle allowing safer transfer without damage to the bodywork being incurred.
Wheelchair control
27th April 2014
The client could not use her new wheelchair because of poor positioning of the joystick. The controls needed moving to a more user-friendly position.
The front tray was replaced with a customised support to allow correct positioning of the joystick control and programmable wheelchair control panel.
The client can now operate her own wheelchair and has regained the mobility she so greatly desires.
Washing machine control handle
27th April 2014
Arthritis precluded the client using their washing machine’s program selector switch. They wanted to be able to operate the machine without asking for help.
A more convenient tee -shaped handle was made to attach over the existing cycle control switch on the client’s washing machine.
The client can now access the controls of their own washing machine and set them conveniently for the appropriate laundry cycle.
Washing machine control
27th April 2014
Arthritis prevented the use of washing machine control knob.
A tee-handled clamp was made to fit on to the existing control knob. Being larger the control knob could be set to the desired position more easily.
This household task made simple for the not so nimble.
Secure TV/video unit
27th April 2014
A hyperactive child was frequently at risk of injury to self, interacting at close quarters with TV and video.
The panel constructed a corner unit to accommodate all of their entertainment equipment. The item was made of interior grade plywood and securely attached to the walls. Enclosed space between walls and unit was employed to take supply and video cables etc.
Parents can now relax a little in the safer environment knowing that the child can no longer go one on one in combat with the entertainment equipment.
Toothbrush manipulator
27th April 2014
A young man was unable to brush his own teeth because of an inability to move his arms enough to effect brushing action at the desired height.
A holder was manufactured to firmly restrain a battery operated toothbrush. Through the specially designed lever actuated gearbox the bristles of brush could be rotated through 180 degrees so that having effectively cleaned half of upper and lower teeth, a change of orientation of brush head allowed the other side of the mouth to be cleaned.
This young man can now clean his teeth unaided.
Support for artist
25th April 2014
A road traffic accident left this young man unable to continue the artwork he enjoyed without assistance.
Padded support to the head & forearm was accomplished by the attachment of fully adjustable supports to the rear of the settee, where he spends most of the day. An exercise cycle (little used) was retrieved from the local tip and with strategic removals and additions now serves as an easel that fits close into the settee.
Less assistance is now required for art sessions. As a useful spin off, the head support is very comfortable for viewing television programmes and the arm support assists with physiotherapy.
Single-handed operation for wheeled walking frame
24th April 2014
Severe disability of the client’s left arm precluded safe braking of their walking frame.
A plastic mould (made with help from occupational therapy department) was developed to be comfortable for the client. The double braking system was modified to single lever actuation. The plastic form was then attached to the handle bar replacing the normal handgrip.
The client can now safely use walking frame around the garden, to local shops or put it into the car for that trip out of town.
Raise/lower seat mobility aid
21st April 2014
The client’s cottage has a narrow landing and limited access to the bathroom, which precluded use of wheelchair.
The solution was to build a wheeled conveyance for use over carpeted areas. With the seat in its lowered position the client could take himself from bedroom to bathroom. Once alongside the washbasin the seat could be raised to allow use of basin and mirror to wash and shave. A hydraulic jack under the seat effected the raise/lower as required.
The client retains independent access between bedroom and bathroom.
Pump spray adapter
21st April 2014
Arthritis in the client’s hands precluded the use of a Nitrolingual spray without the assistance of her partner.
A two handed adapter was made to take the pump spray. This was capped with a lightly sprung actuating plate.
The client now has independent use of the spray.
See different solution to a similar issue.
Pan restraints
16th April 2014
A lack of mobility precluded the use of the cooker hob to prepare a cooked meal for the family. Although a single handed operation could place pan and contents over the hob, restraint had to be given to the pan to allow its contents to be stirred safely.
The three open sides of the hob were surrounded by a slotted aluminium panel to allow each pan to be placed in alignment with the cooker ring element. The base of each pan is aligned centrally over the element by a fixed aluminium ring. Once positioned the slot restrains the pan whilst its contents are stirred.
The client can prepare a hot meal for the family without the pans dancing about precariously.
Pan restraint/kettle & microwave mounting
16th April 2014
A hyperactive child was at potential risk in the family home and the panel undertook various tasks in kitchen and lounge to enhance peace of mind for the other members of the family.
The panel manufactured a range of items to be user friendly to adults. The kettle was removed from the counter top and placed on a purpose made enclosed shelf well out of child’s reach and the microwave was mounted on wall shelf such that controls would be accessible to adults only. Danger of pan handles on the cooker hob was lessened by shrouding three sides thus requiring a straight lift to remove.
Placement of kitchen appliances out of reach still allows adult access but lowers the chance of accidents to child or others.
Hand rail for settee
11th April 2014
The client had difficulty in getting on and off his settee and had on occasion fallen on to the floor.
A steel tubular frame was attached securely to the settee base with brackets and wood screws which he could grasp to enable him to lift or lower himself.
The client can now make full use of the comfortable settee to watch favourite television programmes.
Extended footrest for pavement scooter
10th April 2014
This young man was unable to use his pavement scooter, the footrest being too short.
We extended the footboard, forward of the seat and either side of the front wheel to prevent his foot slipping off. This was accomplished by adding alloy extensions in sheet aluminium to the existing footboard.
The client can now make use of his scooter to get out in the fresh air.
Cot side for infant
2nd April 2014
Being of small build, a mother had difficulty putting her young infant into a cot. The normal slide-down side of the cot was removed and replaced with a purpose-made side. This was hinged along the full length of its construction to fold down level with the top of the mattress.
The mother can now access the child as and when required.
Cat feeder
13th March 2014
After hip surgery the client was unable to bend to place a cat bowl on the floor. Screw fittings were attached to the bowl and to a long lightweight plastic handle. The handle can easily be removed for cleaning.
The client can now safely feed her pet without the need to bend.
Bed stick
10th March 2014
The client needed assistance to make daytime use of an adjustable bed positioned near to a french window with a garden view.
A special purpose bed stick was made. This was designed and manufactured using steel bar and aluminium alloy tube. The hole centres are such that the fixing screw would miss the mattress adjusting mechanism.
The client can rest comfortably whilst taking in an ever changing garden view.
Arm support for cyclist
7th March 2014
A road traffic accident left this young father with very little strength in one arm and he wished to continue cycling with his family.
A moulding was prepared to give rigid support to part of his upper arm, all of his forearm, the palm of his hand and part of his fingers. A spring clip was attached under the palm and a series of Velcro fastenings applied the splint to his arm and hand. The spring clip fastens to the handlebar. He can now cycle safely and accompany his family on cycle rides.
An expensive lightweight wheelchair had been purchased to make loading an easier task for the carer. However, the position of the front wheels did not allow chair near enough to the vehicle to allow ease of transfer without damaging the paintwork on sills.
