 Medical "Sip and Puff" Device
Information and Data was submitted to Parallax by Steve Cunningham of Vancouver Robotics:
I use the BASIC Stamp® module to build "sip & puff" or "tap switch" operated environmental controls for persons with spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, and other disabilities. My machine works as follows: puff into a mouth wand / tube connected to the first of two switches and it sends a signal to the BASIC Stamp microcontroller that lists a household / workplace device (such as: lamp, TV, electric door, fan, etc.) on an LCD. Each "puff" lists a different device around the house. When the device you want to turn on or off is listed, simply "sip" (to activate the second switch) and it turns the device on or off via X10 controls. It also operates a TV remote and is wired directly to the BASIC Stamp module. It is a big hit with quadriplegics.
I have built over 70 units to date and it has truly changed the lives of many people with disabilities such as spinal cord injury or MS. The system also works well using tap switches in place of the sip and puff system. The BASIC Stamp microcontroller is truly changing lives here in Washington State and Oregon. Steve's email address is: SMCVANWA@AOL.COM |