Introduction: Add a Wireless Switch to Medical Suction Machine DeVilbiss. SMA Adaptability
This is how i added a remote control switch to turn on and off a medical suction machine remotely. This allows us to put the suction machine in a different location, even another room to reduce the noise and make it easier to operate. My 9 month old Cameron has a terminal Genetic disorder called SMA type 1 and requires constant suctioning. This has been extremely helpful to us. www.hopeforcameron.com
The items you will need:
- Soldering iron and solder
- shrink tubing or electrical tape.
- Medical suction machine such as DeVilbiss
- 12v remote Relay (on ebay for about $16)
Attachments
Step 1: Step1 Dissassemble Suction Machine
Remove the 4 torx screws from the bottom of the suction machine and pull the top off. Drill a hole big enough for all the relay wires to fit through just below and to the left of the swtich. I put some shrink tubing on the wires to prevent chafing where they enter the suction machine. Put some double sided tape on the back of the relay to attach to the machine. Pull the wires into the suction machine.
Step 2: Step 2: Wiring the 12v Remote Relay.
Start by using a soldering iron to tin the end of the red wire with solder. Attach the +12v Red wire to the circuit board at the spot shown in the picture. (It is your +12v input from the power brick) it is a good idea to zip tie this wire to a hole in the circuit board to prevent any strain on the solder joint.
Step 3: Step 3: Ground and 12v Output From the Wireless Relay.
Locate and strip the 2 wires going to the motor.
connect the white wire (+12v switched output) from the relay to the red wire.
Connect both black ground wires to the black motor wire.
Seal the connections with tape or shrink tubing. I chose to solder the wires together and use shrink tubing but other methods would work.
The Blue wire is the antenna. just run it around the edge of the suction machine. Dont coil it up or connect it to anything.
Step 4: Step 4. Re-assemble.
Reassemble the suction machine being careful not to pinch any wires.. I sprayed some silicone lubricant on the upper moving parts and it seemed to make the machine a little quieter. I also stuffed pieces of foam into open cavities and between plastic contact points to help make it more quiet.
I attached the remote to the end of the suction nozzle with double sided tape and a Zip tie. Works like a champ!
7 Comments
Tip 5 years ago
I was able to follow these instructions and complete this project but I then modified it to allow my 18 Y.O. SMA 2 son to suction himself. With these directions it only works when the device is plugged into power. I disconnected the power wire that was soldered to the control board and connected it to one of the wires from the battery that connects to the control board. I am including a photo. It connects to the red wire on the back left as you are looking at the plastic lock lever. My son no longer has a trach but retained the stoma and with this will be able to suction himself as needed when he attends the local community college.
8 years ago on Introduction
I love that you posted this, because I'm dealing with the exact same thing. I had a stroke that has made it so I have to suction all throughout the day. I have 3 deVillbiss suctions in locations close enough so I can reach them. My life is all medical now. Do you have any more instructables related to medical supplies?
8 years ago
Great idea, me and my wife needed something similar and found remote controlled outlets for Xmas lights. I think their were four in the box for $20 bucks. the remote is about the same size as the one shown, however it controls the power to four outlets. You plug the receiver into the outlet and the plus you wish to wirelessly control into that. they work great.
8 years ago on Introduction
It should be noted that I don't know what I am talking about, so take this with a grain of salt:
I think they often DON'T include wireless remotes because there is the possibility of interference with other medical equipment.
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
he can always put a relay for self containing for safety reson. To tern it of he will have to do it physically on the pump insted of using remote, that way the pomp wil not be turnd of by the radio frequency interference
8 years ago on Introduction
remote should be a standard issue for those things Awesome job hope your get the money for the operation soon :)
8 years ago on Introduction
Awesome build, and good job on filling a need! I am so sorry for your hardships. Thanks for sharing!