15 Surprising Facts About Electric Powered Wheelchair
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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
A wheelchair powered by electricity can be very beneficial for individuals with limited mobility. You can find these chairs at specialist mobility equipment suppliers and at some major retailers. Medicare and private insurance may pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair when it's considered medically necessary by a physician.
The majority of power wheelchairs feature an instrument that the user uses to control the motors. The controller, which acts 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 factors to consider is battery life. A high-quality battery can last up to two years with regular usage and regular maintenance. The type of battery also affects how far a wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs utilize deep cycle batteries, which are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. They can handle numerous discharges and recharges without causing damage battery cells. It is essential to adhere to the recommended charging practices of the manufacturer. This includes overnight charging of the battery and avoiding leaving it running at a complete loss.
The surface on which the wheelchair is operated also influences the battery's lifespan. Smooth, level surfaces use less energy to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If the wheelchair is driven on rough terrain, the motors will have to work harder in order to maintain balance and speed, which consumes energy and drains batteries faster.
The lifespan of batteries is affected by its age and use patterns. It may be time to replace batteries if they are getting old and is losing its ability to maintain charge. A newer battery could help reduce the amount of time a wheelchair needs to be charged, and is more likely to have a greater capacity than older batteries.
Wheelchair batteries are available in various sizes that include Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most popular selections. The Group 22NF batteries weigh less and are smaller than Group 24 batteries. This helps reduce the overall weight and size of a wheelchair. These batteries have a lower power reserve or "juice" than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid charging or subcharging the battery, as this can reduce the battery's lifespan. Keeping the battery in a cool, dry area is also crucial, as exposure to extreme temperatures can affect the battery's performance.
Weight Capacity
The capacity to support the weight of a power chair is a crucial aspect to take into account. If the chair is to be used for long journeys the chair must be capable of supporting the user's body weight. Overweight can lead to structural issues, a decrease in battery life and a greater risk of accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair varies from model to model and is affected by the type of battery it is powered by. It also is affected by the variety and types of additional accessories it has such as oxygen tank holders and a variety of seating systems. However, most of its weight comes from the batteries. One battery can weigh up to 50 lbs alone and a powerchair usually has two of them!
The weight of a power wheelchair is also affected by the type of engine it is either a two-pole or four-pole motor. A four-pole power chair is more efficient, and can carry more weight capacity. However, it will require more energy from the batteries and may drain faster than a two-pole motor.
Power wheelchairs could also have different drive bases such as mid-wheel or rear-wheel. The location of the wheels may affect its maneuverability and handling in various conditions. The base of the drive may include a range of options, such as an adjustable controller that assists in side-transfers and sip-and-puff controls that work by blowing into a sensor.
The environment where a power chair is used is another consideration. It is essential that the chair is able to be used on a variety of terrains and fit into hallways and rooms. It is essential to measure the doorways and ensure that the chair is able to move through them, including doors with hinges.
A physical therapist or a mobility specialist can help you select the right power chair to meet your needs. They can advise on factors such as comfort, accessibility adjustments along with the size, shape, and the weight of the chair. They also take into consideration the frequency and duration, and whether the chair will be moved regularly.
Seating
Electric wheelchairs have motors to move them, unlike manual wheelchairs. This provides you with more mobility and greater mobility than a manual chair however, it has certain limitations and other factors to consider.
First, you'll need to determine the weight capacity of your chair. It doesn't matter if it's your own weight or the weight of any equipment or items that you're carrying, it is important to not exceed the manufacturer's suggested weight limit in order to avoid overloading the power chair and creating damage.
Make sure that the power chair you choose has a comfortable footplate and an appropriate seat to fit in. If there isn't enough space for your feet to rest on the footplate, it may shift your center of gravity to the back and cause the chair to move.
Then, you should look for a power wheelchair with tilt and recline features to reduce the risk of getting pressure sores. This feature is crucial for seniors, whose skin is thin and can bruise easily. Additionally, leg rests with power can help elevate your legs and decrease swelling.
Like any other mechanical device the wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure that it operates safely and efficiently. You'll have to inspect the condition of the battery, tire pressure, brakes and other components of the device frequently. You should also check the seating for wear, and make any necessary adjustments.
It is important to keep your power chair in a location that outdoor electric wheelchair is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. The exposure to high temperatures can affect the frame's condition, while exposure to low temperatures can cause damage to the battery and other electrical components.
If you're not purchasing your wheelchair from a private source the wheelchair will not be insured and you won't have the option to return it if it doesn't meet your needs. Manufacturers' warranties typically last between one and two years. They cover motors, joysticks, frames, and electronic components, but not back cushions, seats, or tires. Before buying an electric wheelchair, inquire with your supplier about the return policy. The most important thing is to read the manual and follow the instructions for use and maintenance.
Operation
The motor of a power wheelchair is located in the power base. It is situated under the user's seat. The motor is powered by rechargeable batteries of 12 volts connected in series, for an overall voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH provides lithium batteries that are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used for an extended period of time.
Many options are available to modify the controller, electronics and power base to meet the specific needs of each user. Some chairs allow for adjustable seating, which can help to ensure the most comfortable fit. It can also help the user choose the ideal position that supports their postural stability. A lot of models also have adjustable height of the seat, recline and leg rest positions and the ability to tilt with power.
Electric powered wheelchairs can be equipped with a wide range of additional features. These include oxygen tank holders, elevating chairs and many other accessories for power. Certain powerchairs are customized to allow the user to control them with their brainwaves or nerve signal.
Some powerchairs also be able to adjust their speed to accommodate the user's preference or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for example when climbing hills. They can also be fitted with sensors that can warn of obstacles and other potential hazards in the vicinity and automatically slow down or swerve when necessary.
The location of the drive wheels, whether they are mid-wheels, rear-wheels or front-wheel drives has significant impact on how a chair performs under various conditions. This is a vast subject, so we'll save it for a future Clinical Corner.
Before you take your brand new electric wheelchair for the first time, ensure that it's fully charged, and that the tires have enough air pressure. It's also an excellent idea to make some adjustments to the seat, armrests footrests (if applicable) and joystick, in order to prepare it for first use. It is essential to follow the instructions in your manual when operating your wheelchair. This is especially important when driving on and down hills. This will lower the risk of injury and discomfort.