The Most Underrated Companies To Follow In The Electric Powered Wheelchair Industry
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Shopping For an Electric Powered Wheelchair
A wheelchair powered by electricity can be extremely beneficial for those with mobility issues. These chairs are available at major retailers and specialty mobility equipment suppliers. Medicare and private insurance can pay for the cost of an electric wheelchair if a doctor deems it medically essential.
The majority of power wheelchairs feature a joystick that the user moves to direct the motors. The controller, acting as the brain of the wheelchair converts these movements into electrical signals.
Battery Life
When shopping for a power wheelchair, one of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the battery's lifespan. A good battery will last for up to two years if maintained regularly and is regularly used. The type of battery determines how far the wheelchair can travel on a single charge.
The majority of power wheelchairs have deep cycle batteries, which are designed to last for a long time and provide a steady energy supply. These batteries can handle multiple discharges and recharges without harming the cells in the battery. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended charge practices. This includes overnight charging of the battery, and avoiding the battery from running completely empty.
The surface on which the wheelchair operates also affects the battery's longevity. Smooth, level surfaces require less energy to propel the chair, leading to longer battery life. If a wheelchair is driven on rough or uneven surfaces, the motors will have to work harder to maintain stability and speed and this consumes more energy and drains the battery faster.
The condition of a battery and its usage pattern can also influence its lifespan. It is possible to replace batteries if they are getting old and losing its ability to keep charge. A newer battery will cut down on the time required to charge a wheelchair and is likely to have more capacity.
Wheelchair batteries are available in several sizes, with Group 22NF and Group 24 being the most well-known selections. Group 22NF batteries are lighter and smaller than Group 24 batteries, helping to decrease the overall weight and width of a power wheelchair. However, these batteries have lower power or "juice" reserve than Group 24 batteries.
Avoid charging or subcharging the battery as it will reduce its life. The battery should be kept in a cool, dry location is also essential because exposure to extreme temperatures can negatively impact the battery's functionality.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a power chair is a crucial aspect to consider. If the chair is intended to be used for long journeys, it will need to be able to support the weight of the person. Weight issues can be caused by excessive weight, which can also result in battery life issues and accidents.
The weight of a power wheelchair varies from one model to another and is influenced by its batteries. It is also impacted by the amount and type of accessories it comes with like oxygen tank holders and various seating systems. However, the majority of its weight is derived from the batteries. A single battery can weigh as much as 50 lbs, and most power chairs come with two batteries!
Whether the power wheelchair has a two-pole motor or four-pole motor could affect its weight. A four-pole motor is more efficient and can provide a higher capacity of weight. However, it will need more energy from the batteries and could drain faster than a two-pole motor.
Power wheelchairs also be equipped with different drive bases, such as mid-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The location of the drive wheels can influence its maneuverability and handling in a variety of conditions. The drive base may also have a number of other options, including a swing-away controller that aids in side-transfers, and sip-and-puff controllers that work by blowing into the sensor.
Another aspect to consider is the environment where the power wheelchair is employed. It is crucial that the chair can be used on different surfaces and be able to fit into rooms and hallways. It is essential to measure the doors and make sure that the chair is able to navigate through them, even doors with hinges.
A physical therapist or mobility specialist can help you choose the best power chair to meet your requirements. They can advise on factors like comfort, accessibility modifications along with the size, shape, and the weight of the chair. They will also look at the frequency and duration of use and whether the chair will be moved regularly.
Seating
As opposed to manual wheelchairs powered ones come with motors that move them. This allows you to move more easily and farther than a manual wheelchair but there are a few limitations.
In the beginning, you'll need know the capacity of your new power chair. You should never exceed the recommended weight limit, regardless of whether it's your own or any equipment or supplies that you're carrying.
Make sure that the power chair you choose includes a comfortable footplate as well as a seat that you can fit in. If your feet don't fit on the footplate of the power chair your center here gravity can be shifted backwards and the wheelchair may swivel.
Then, you should look for a power wheelchair that has tilt and recline capabilities to decrease 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 lessen swelling.
Like all mechanical devices, your wheelchair will require regular maintenance to ensure it functions well and safely. You'll need to inspect the battery, tire pressure, brakes, and other parts of your wheelchair frequently. You should also inspect the seating for wear and tear, and make any adjustments that are needed.
You should also pay attention to the location you store your power wheelchair to ensure that it is not exposed to extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperatures can degrade the frame, while exposure to low temperatures can damage the battery and other electrical components.
Unless you're buying the wheelchair out of pocket it isn't insured and you won't be able return it if it doesn't satisfy your requirements. Warranty warranties from manufacturers usually last from one to two years and cover the motors electronic, joysticks, and electronics frames, but not the back cushions, seats or tires. Ask your supplier about their return policies before you purchase an electric wheelchair. The here most important thing is to read the manual thoroughly and follow the directions for use and maintenance.
Operation
Power wheelchairs are powered by a motor within the base of power that sits under the seat of the user. The motor is powered either by two 12-volt rechargeable batteries connected in series for total voltage of 24 volts. LITH-TECH offers lithium batteries that are more energy efficient than lead acids and can be used over a longer period of time.
The controller as well as the electronics and power base can be modified to meet the needs of various users, with a variety of options available. Some chairs allow for individual seating that will ensure the most comfortable fit. It also allows the user to find the position that best supports their postural stability. A lot of models also have adjustable heights for the seat as well as recline and leg rest positions, and power tilt functionality.
There are a variety of additional features offered for electric powered wheelchairs, including oxygen tank holders, elevated seats, and a variety of power accessories. Some powerchairs can also be customized so that the user can control them by using their own brainwaves or nerve signals.
Some powerchairs can also be able to adjust their speed according to the preferences of the user or to match the speed of other vehicles on the road, for example when climbing hills. They are also equipped with sensors that can warn of obstacles and other potential hazards in the vicinity and will then automatically slow down or stop in the event of a need.
The location of the drive wheels - whether front-wheel, mid-wheel or rear-wheel drive - can have a huge impact on how the chair performs under different situations. But, it's a huge subject that we'll leave for another Clinical Corner article.
Make sure that your new electric chair is fully charged and the tires are inflated to the right pressure prior to taking it for an excursion. It's also an excellent idea to make some adjustments to the seat, armrests footrests (if applicable) and joystick to prepare it for first time use. Make sure you adhere to the instructions in the manual for operating your wheelchair, particularly when driving down and up slopes. This will minimise the risk of injury, damage or discomfort.