20 Fun Facts About Electric Powered Wheelchair
Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
Electric powered wheelchairs can be a huge help to people with limited mobility. You can find these chairs at specialized mobility equipment providers and some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance may pay for an electric wheelchair if determined to be medically necessary by a doctor.
The majority of power wheelchairs come with a joystick, which users can use to control the motors. The controller, which functions as the brain of the wheelchair converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
When looking for a power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to consider is the battery's life. A high-quality battery can last up to two years if used regularly and proper maintenance. The type of battery affects the distance the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs utilize deep cycle batteries, which are designed to provide a long-lasting power supply. They can handle a variety of discharges and recharges without causing damage to the battery cells. It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended charge practices. This includes overnight charging of the battery, and avoiding letting it run completely empty.
The surface on the ground on which the wheelchair is operated can affect the battery's life. Smooth, level surfaces require less power to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If a wheelchair is used on bumpy or rocky surfaces the motors will need to be more efficient in order to maintain stability and speed which means that they consume more energy and drains the battery quicker.
The age of a battery and the way it is used can affect its longevity. It may be time to replace the battery if it's getting old and is losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery could help reduce the amount of time a wheelchair must be charged, and it is more likely to have a greater capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries come in various sizes. The most popular are Group 24 and Group 22NF. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than Group 24 batteries. This helps reduce the overall weight and size of the wheelchair. They have a smaller power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
Beware of overcharging or subcharging your battery as it will reduce the battery's lifespan. It is crucial to keep the battery in a cool, dry location, as extreme temperatures can alter the battery's performance.
Capacity for Weight
Weight capacity is an important factor to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. If the chair is intended to be used for long-distance trips, it will need to be capable of supporting the weight of the user's body. Excessive weight can lead to structural problems, decreased battery life and a greater risk of accidents.
The weight of a power chair varies between models and is influenced by its batteries. The weight of a power chair is also affected by the number of accessories and the kind of accessories, such as oxygen tanks holders and various seating systems. However, most of its weight comes from the batteries. A single battery can weigh up to 50 lbs, and most power chairs have two!
The weight of a power wheelchair can also be affected by the type of engine it is an engine with four poles or two. A four-pole motor is more efficient and has a higher capacity for weight. However, it requires more energy and drain batteries faster than a motor with just two poles.
Power wheelchairs may also have different drive bases, such as mid-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The location of the wheels can impact the maneuverability and handling of the wheelchair under various conditions. The base of the drive could include a range of options, such as a swing-away controller that aids in side-transfers as well as sip-and puff controls which work by blowing on the sensor.
The environment in which a power wheelchair is used is another aspect to consider. It is crucial that the chair can be used on different terrains and fit into rooms and hallways. It is essential to measure the doors and ensure that the chair is able to navigate through them, even those with hinged doors.
A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help you choose the right wheelchair to meet your needs. In addition to assessing the weight of the chair, its speed and driving range, they can also advise on other factors like comfort, accessibility modifications and the size of the seat. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration and whether the chair is likely to be moved frequently.
Seating
In contrast to manual wheelchairs, electric powered ones come with motors that move them. This allows you to move more freely and further than a manual one, but there are a few limitations.
First, you'll need to understand the capacity of your new wheelchair. Whether it's your personal weight or the weight of any equipment or items you're carrying, you should never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit in order to avoid overloading the power chair and causing damage.
Make sure that the power chair you pick has a comfortable footplate and a seat that you can fit in. If you don't have enough room for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity forward and cause the chair to move.
Look for a power chair with tilt and reclining functions to reduce the risk of developing pressure sores. This feature is essential for seniors whose skin can be fragile and easily bruises. Power leg rests are also an excellent method of elevating your legs, which will reduce swelling.
As with any mechanical device it will require maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and safely. You'll need to check the battery and brakes, tire pressure, and other parts of your wheelchair regularly. Also, you should inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments.
It is also important to pay attention to the location you place your power wheelchair in order so that you don't expose it to extreme weather conditions. The exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the frame, whereas exposure to low temperatures could cause damage to the battery and other electrical components.
If you don't purchase your wheelchair from a private source the wheelchair won't be covered by insurance and you won't be able to return it if it doesn't meet your requirements. Manufacturer warranties typically last from one to two years and cover the motors as well as electronics, joysticks, joysticks and frames but not the cushions on the back, seats or tires. Check with your supplier for their return policies prior to you purchase an electric wheelchair. In the first place, go through the user's manual and follow all the directions regarding the use and maintenance of the device.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is found in the power base. It is located underneath the seat of the user. The motor is powered by one or two rechargeable 12-volt batteries that are connected in series, giving 24 volts in total. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries, that are much more efficient than lead acid batteries and can be used for longer durations of time.
The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be customised to suit the requirements of different users, with numerous options available. Certain chairs offer customizable seating, which can aid in ensuring a comfortable fit. It can also help the user find the position that best supports their postural stability. Many chairs come with adjustable features like leg rest, seat height and recline positions, in addition to the power tilt feature.
There are many additional extras that are available for electric powered wheelchairs including oxygen tank holders elevating seats and a range of power accessories. Certain powerchairs can be customized to allow the user to control them with their brainwaves or nerve signal.
Certain powerchairs are able to alter the speed according to the user's preferences or to match other vehicles on the road. For instance, when driving uphill. They can also be equipped with sensors that alert you to dangers or obstacles within the vicinity, and will automatically slow down or swerve in the event of a need.
The position of the drive wheels, whether they are rear-wheels, mid-wheels or front-wheel drives, has significant influence on the performance of a chair under different conditions. However, that's a large subject that we'll leave for a future Clinical Corner article.
Before you take your new electric wheelchair for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged and that the tires have enough air pressure. It's also recommended to make some adjustments to the seat, armrests footrests (if applicable) and joystick to prepare it for its first use. Make sure you follow the manual's instructions for operating your wheelchair, especially when driving down and up slopes. MyMobilityScooters will minimise the chance of injury, damage and discomfort.