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DISCLAIMER:
Whilst all care is taken to provide accurate information with respect to the item described, the Independent Living Centre (ILC) is not involved in product design or manufacture, and therefore not in a position to guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Selection of equipment, which is both suitable and appropriate for individual needs remains the responsibility of the person(s) considering requisition, and no responsibility is taken by the ILC for any loss or injury caused through use of the equipment or alleged to have arisen through reliance upon information provided. As information is subject to change any enquiries should be directed to the manufacturer.



Item Details

Headpointer

ILC Reference NO 62:12:003
Item sourced from ILC VIC database


Main Picture

Factors to Consider
Use of a headpointer requires the user to control head and neck movement and to perform these movements repetitively to access eg a computer keyboard. Using muscles in the neck for prolonged periods for precision tasks like typing can result in fatigue and strain in the neck and sometimes also the upper body.
When using a headpointer it is important that the user is well supported in chair or wheelchair to reduce further strain on the body.
The device being accessed needs to be fixed in a position that allows the person to reach all keys or controls with minimal effort. The most frequently used keys or controls should be positioned where the user has greatest control.
The position of the device being accessed may interfere with line of vision if eg they drive a motorised wheelchair.
Sensitivity of the keyboard or controls may need to be adjusted for some users to reduce accidental activations.
A keyguard may assist some users to target keys more accurately.
The size of target keys or controls needs to be assessed for individual needs to ensure ease of access using the pointer.
The appearance of the headpointer can be of concern for some people.


Short Description
This custom made headpointer consists of a moulded thermoplastic helmet lined with foam, Velcro or leather straps and a lightweight 7mm tubular steel wand with a rubber typing tip extending from the helmet. The helmet is custom fitted to the head with a cut out section at the crown and around the ears for ventilation.

More Details
Accessories
Accessories can be designed and made to order including pencil and paintbrush holders.

Service details
Clients can self refer to the Orthotic and Prosthetic Centre.
The head pointer is manufactured over 2 to 3 visits.
The helmet is generally cast during the first visit (approximately half an hour is required).
A fitting of approximately 10 minutes is required at the second visit.
The head pointer is finished off at the final visit or is posted out when completed.
Head pointers take approximately 2 to 3 weeks to manufacture.
Costs vary depending on individual requirements.

Safety and Maintenance
Refer to the supplier and manufacturer manual for maintenance instructions and safety warnings.

Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information on what standards the equipment may need to meet, see www.ilcaustralia.org/explanationofstandards.


Place Of Manufacture
OPC (Victoria, Australia)

Supplier Information - click to supplier for contacts details
ORTHOTIC AND PROSTHETIC CENTRE (OPC) PTY LTD,   PORT MELBOURNE, VIC

Additional /images
No additional /images apply to this item

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