The Home Machinist!

Hey gang, first post here. I'm an Engineer at a Nuclear Power Plant by day and a Web Designer at night. Good thing my wife has 2 jobs to, given the state of the economy! Anyhow, I have a project for my sister that I'd like to see if a Home Machinist member would be interested in. She is a quadriplegic, and she needs an electrically adjustable stand.

Here is a description of what I am looking for on this project:
To provide an electrically adjustable stand which can support a laptop, drawing pad, etc. for a quadriplegic artist. The user of the stand will be my sister, Donna. The stand must be electrically adjustable for height, forward/backward, tilt, and side to side. Care must be taken for it not to be able to tip over with the laptop in any position. My sister can answer her phone, sketch drawings, paint, and operate her laptop mouse with the use of a pencil. The goal is for the stand to be adjustable using a small pendant with push-buttons. The stand must be large enough for the laptop, but the adjusting system must be small so that the stand can fit across my sister’s chest as she lays on her back in bed. Overall weight needs to be considered as my 71 year old mother will be moving the stand around the room and placing it for my sister to use. The power requirements should be a regular 120v outlet.

Here is a picture from a web search with something existing in the ballpark. Stability is #1 priority. Adjustability is #2.


Is this something one of you (members) could tackle for me? All of the local fabricators only build race cars. I'm thinking it needs a special touch. If anyone is up for the task please let me know what kind of budget the project requires. Although Christmas would be a great deadline, her birthday is in March.

And, if no one here can do it, do you have anyone to recommend? It may be more of a robotic project. I have no experience with linear actuators, lathe ballscrews, control boards, etc. If my sister wanted a race car I would be more than happy to appease her.

Thanks in advance.

Hank

May line makes electic drafting tables and electric computer stands. You hit the sithch with your foot or hand but that can be changed out with no problem. Check the web there are a several companies who make them. They are not cheap I thing about $600 and up. The drafting tables new are about $2500 I am an architect and found one used from airo space for $175. They come up all the time for less on Ebay and Craigs list. You can convert the huge table base into a computer table if you want. Just change out the top. I have handy cap scooters and wheel chair for myself. I have a very bad back, heart and asthma. I can't get around some days very well. I do a lot of handy cap design work and construction. If you are in need of a special table you are going to need deep pockets.

You shhould be able to support yourself with one of your jobs and have the wife stay at home. If you can't do it you are living way above your means. 4 jobs and you still compalin. Give me a break. LOL Your being an engineer you should know about the may line electronic tables.

I checked out the Mayline electric drafting tables and I could probably use parts/pieces to get what I want constructed. Looks heavy, though.

Dave, can you check your email? I haven't heard from you in almost a month regarding this project.

Dave can no longer work on the project due to medical problems.

I am now looking for someone who can start this project for my sister.

These are the notes that Dave sent me on the project. I put together the "overall" drawing based on his notes. I don't know how he planned on rotating the table top, however.

The goal is to complete the project by March 17th, her birthday.

Notes: http://www.henry-bell.com/stand