Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that provide power assist for wheelchair users allow them to travel farther and over more difficult terrain. They also decrease the amount of effort required to propel the wheelchair, which results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
The great aspect of these chairs is that they don't alter the look of a manual chair, and they can be easily moved. They are also simple to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive electric wheelchairs offer the most stable and power. The large drive wheels "grab" the road and allow the chair to navigate difficult terrain like gravel, grass, or steps. This configuration is also an excellent option for those who require to maneuver your chair through tight spaces since it is easy to make sharp turns using the front drive.
During the wheelchair selection process your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will think about which components and base are best suited to your needs. In addition to the drive wheel configuration, the choice of an additional power assist add-on should be taken into consideration. There are several different options for power assist, such as front-wheel, mid-wheel, and rear-wheel power add-ons.
The relaunched and new WheelDrive power add-on from Sunrise Medical offers a unique dual rim design with different driving modes. The large 'assist' wheel gives you additional power with each push. This reduces fatigue and lets you go further with each push. The smaller 'drive' rim gives you continuous power, making climbing easier. WheelDrive can be mounted on almost any manual wheelchair without any additional parts or modifications. It is also easy to switch between the two driving modes pressing the power button with a simple click.
best self propelled wheelchair My Mobility Scooters is provided by an electric hub motor that is powered by detachable lightweight batteries and can be fully charged in less than two hours. The compact design and easy operation makes it the perfect solution for those who require an extra boost to travel further distances. The WheelDrive is maintenance-free unlike power assist accessories powered by batteries which can be difficult to keep in good in good working order.
If you're thinking of adding a front-wheel drive wheelchair to your manual wheelchair, we recommend that you contact one of our ATPs for further information and an opportunity to see a demonstration. If you're considering the brand new Empulse 4Front 2 powered wheelchair, the FrontDrive system standard comes with iLevel that raises the safe seat height to 12 inches. This lets you perform the mobility-related activities of daily living such as reaching, grooming and toileting at a greater height, which can make your life more comfortable and more joyfully.
Rear Power Assist add-ons
Power add-ons for wheelchairs are an excellent way to cut down on the amount of effort it takes to push a manual chair. They also protect shoulder health and reduce the risk of injury that comes with prolonged, repetitive manual propulsion. Adding power assist to your wheelchair enables you to travel further, climb steep slopes and navigate through difficult terrain with greater confidence.
Wheelchair power accessories are classified into rear attachments (such as the SmartDrive) and front attachments that raise a manual wheelchair's caster wheels off the ground and replace them with a larger, centered wheel (similar to the bicycle) like the BATEC Manual or Rio Dragonfly, and hybrid systems that combine both of these features. Front attachments can be controlled using a hand-rim activated system like the Alber Smoov, Klaxon Twist or SmartDrive. Rear attachments, on the other hand are a joystick conversion device such as the Alber E-Motion and SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair add-ons make use of rechargeable batteries, and others, like the WheelDrive are connected to the motor in the wheelchair and powered by the energy generated by wheel's rotation. The ones that are powered by batteries are generally smaller and lighter than those that use kinetic energy to drive the wheels.
One of the most well-known wheelchair power add-ons is the Spinergy ZX-1, which attaches to the back axle of rigid and folding frame wheelchairs. It comes with three different levels of support which can be changed at the push of a button. It is also simple to switch from manual to power mode and back again.
The BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel is another alternative. It comes with three support levels, and can also be controlled by a joystick. This makes it ideal for people who require different levels of assistance in different environments. These power add-ons are also beneficial in reducing the pressure on elbows and shoulders. This lets you go farther with less effort. This is particularly beneficial when you're worried about the impact of long-distance self-propulsion on your shoulder health.
Active Wheelchairs for Users
An active user wheelchair is one that is specifically designed for those who lead an in a busy lifestyle and want to remain mobile and independent. They are much lighter and more maneuverable than standard self-propelled wheelchairs, so users will experience less wear and tear on their upper body. This allows them to traverse longer distances on difficult terrain without needing assistance.
A wheelchair designed for active lifestyles will have smaller frames to improve maneuverability. Additionally the rear wheels are typically bigger than standard wheelchairs to allow the user to easily access them and then propel themselves forward. The backrest is often lower to allow the user to move their shoulders and arms freely when self-propelling.
Powered add-ons are a fantastic option to make your active wheelchair more efficient as they can offer additional power when needed. This can be helpful for climbing up hills, travelling long distances or when the user is exhausted. The user can control an accessory powered through voice commands or eye movements. This can help users to become more independent and less dependent on someone else to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are an innovative and exciting method of improving mobility and efficiency. These attach to the front wheel of a wheelchair, transforming it into a hand-bike with three wheels, allowing riders to travel more quickly and further than they would on their own. This can be beneficial for those who want to commute to work or run errands, or for those who simply would like to take a relaxing ride. A power bike add-on can also be adjusted to suit the individual's preferences and needs and preferences, with various rear wheel angle options available and adjustable seating tension and footrest position. This offers the ultimate in flexibility and personalization.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons can be attached to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs and replace the existing rear wheels. They are simple to use and enable the user to go longer distances while requiring less effort. These are typically lightweight and feature advanced control systems to alter programming, monitor battery level and fault detection remotely.
These are aftermarket attachments that can be connected to a range of manual wheelchairs, including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ and Alber Smoov. The device is started through pushing one button or switch and is controlled using a wireless wristband to activate the motor and alter settings like speed. Some come with a built in push tracker that keeps track of the amount of power that was using.
They enable individuals to travel greater distances without fatigue and assist them to climb hills and other obstacles more easily. They help users maintain their independence by continuing to engage in regular activities, work and having fun with friends and family.
In some instances, the use of power assist can reduce the risk of developing sores from pressure by reducing amount of force applied by the person. They can also cut down on the amount of time needed to complete activities that require mobility and make it easier for individuals to conquer obstacles such as steps, inclines and curb cuts.
Many power-assists that fold are portable, which means that users can take their wheelchair on family trips without needing a van. They can be removed from the chair to travel for work or other events and then reattached after they return home. This will allow people to retain their paid employment, volunteer work and other initiatives to continue contributing to society and be an active member of the community.
When not in use non-folding power assist devices are typically larger and heavier. Many of them can be folded and their accessories removed, which can save even more space. They can be tucked away in the trunk of any family vehicle. This lets people travel with their families, to work, to other locations and also to visit family and friends.