Adapted bed controller
Our client has limited use of his hands and so found it impossible to press the smooth, slightly recessed buttons on the controller for his Drive DeVilbiss motorised bed. He only needed to use the top four buttons himself but wanted the others accessible for his carers to use.
The solution
Having spoken with the client and received some pictures of his controller, I discovered that it was not possible to obtain a spare controller that could be used for developing a solution. I overcame this obstacle by buying a compatible second-hand controller online and then proceeded to design a 3D model. I showed an early concept to the client which he liked.
The solution involves securely attaching a frame to the controller and fitting four-hinged levers to the frame that are much bigger than the controller, but press onto the buttons. The frame includes a front and back moulding and a clip that locks it solidly around the controller’s rear hook.
The levers include the legends for the buttons by slightly recessing them in the 3D prints.
I was able to 3D print and assemble the parts to the controller but I could not test it. I posted it off to the client who asked one of his carers to plug it in and, once we resolved the unlocking of the controls, he was able to use it and control the position of his bed.
Rear view showing the hook clip.
Side view part assembled with 2 buttons.
Fully assembled.
The benefit
The client can now operate his bed controls independently and sent me this in an email:
- Skills involved:
- Issues Addressed:
- Activities Helped:
- Location:
- Solution:
