Malvern Scientific Prototype Design
Malvern Scientific Solutions Limited, based in Suckley, Worcestershire, was established in 1998 with the aim of improving the provision of Assistive Technology (AT) to individuals with disabilities.
Their team of ex-Ministry of Defence research scientists specialise in 'high-tech', computer-based AT to help the disabled user to communicate and to access entertainment, mobility and home control systems. Malvern Scientific's clients have disabilities - and abilities - that cover the full spectrum; including physical, cognitive, speech, vision and hearing impairments. Each person has individual needs and requires customised AT to reach their full potential and enhance their quality of life.
Xitek was recommended to Malvern Scientific by the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS). After initial discussions between Dr. Marc Beale, Director of Malvern Scientific, and Andrew Perkins of Xitek, it was agreed that Xitek should produce a prototype 4 Switch Interface contained within a compact enclosure.
This piece of equipment formed the vital link between the TypeAssist products sold by Assistive Control, the consumer division of Malvern Scientific Solutions (www.assistivecontrol.com) and the client. The client uses a customised sensor device to detect the small movements which they are able to make, either by hand or some other part of the body. This movement is then translated by the Xitek prototype into commands for the TypeAssist device.
Following successful trials, the product was then passed on to a EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) test house for full testing and confirmed as compliant with all EU legislative requirements and achieved the CE marking standard. All Xitek projects are carried out to these minimum standards so that customers can rest assured of the quality of the final design.
Final discussion are underway between Xitek and Malvern Scientific with a view to entering into full scale manufacture of the device.
Marc Beale commented, "We have been very pleased to find Xitek whose 'can do' approach to the project was translated into our first CE marked product. They provided a one-stop solution, handling electronics design, rapid prototyping enclosure with labelling, connectors and cabling - and CE marking."
"We are now discussing the next product development with them..."