Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that offer power assist for wheelchair users allow them to travel farther and over more difficult terrain. They also reduce the effort required to propel. This results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
They are simple to transport and don't change the look of the manual chairs. They are also very easy to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive electric wheelchairs provide the highest level of stability and power. The large drive wheels are able to "grab" the road, allowing the chair to traverse difficult terrain like gravel, grass or steps. This configuration is also an excellent option for those who have to maneuver your chair through tight spaces because it is easy to make sharp turns using the front drive.
When making a selection your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional will consider which base and components will best suit your requirements. In addition to the drive wheel configuration, the choice of an auxiliary power assist add-on must also be considered. There are many options available for power assistance, including front-wheel add-ons, mid-wheel additions, and rear-wheel add-ons.
The new and relaunched WheelDrive power add-on from Sunrise Medical offers a unique dual rim design, with a variety of driving modes. The large 'assist' wheel gives you extra power with every push. This reduces fatigue and allows you to get further ahead with each push. The smaller rim for driving provides continuous power to make climbing easier. The WheelDrive is easy to mount on almost every manual wheelchair with no additional parts or modifications and can be switched between two driving modes with an easy-to-use power button.
The brushless hub motor is powered by lightweight batteries that can be removed and fully charged in less than two hours. Its small size and easy to use make it a perfect choice for those who require a little extra help to travel for long distances. The WheelDrive does not require maintenance, unlike battery-powered power assist systems that are difficult to maintain in good and in good working.
If you're thinking of adding a front-wheel drive power wheelchair to your existing manual wheelchair, we suggest that you speak to one of our ATPs for further information and a demonstration. If you're considering the new Empulse 4Front 2 power wheelchair, the standard FrontDrive system includes iLevel, which raises your safe seat elevation up to 12 inches. This lets you perform the mobility-related tasks of your daily life such as toileting, reaching and grooming at a higher height.
Rear Power Assist Add-ons
Power accessories for wheelchairs are a great way to reduce the amount of work required to propel a manual chair. They also aid in maintaining the health of your shoulders and reduce the anxiety of injuries that come with sustained, repetitive manual propulsion. You can go further, traverse steep slopes, and maneuver in difficult conditions by adding power assist to your chair.
The power add-ons for wheelchairs could be classified into three categories: rear attachments which are similar to SmartDrive front attachments that raise the wheels of manual chairs off of the ground (similarly to a bicycle) and hybrid systems that combine both features. Front attachments can be controlled using a hand-rim-activated system like the Alber Smoov, Klaxon Twist or SmartDrive. Attachments on the rear are, on the other hand are devices that convert joysticks, like the Alber E-Motion and SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair power add-ons are powered by a rechargeable battery and others, such as the WheelDrive are connected to the motor inside the wheelchair and powered by kinetic energy from the wheel's movement. The ones that are powered by batteries are usually lighter and more compact than those that rely on energy generated by kinetic energy to drive the wheels.
Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most sought-after wheelchair accessories. It attaches to either the rigid or folding frame of active wheelchairs. There are three support levels, and they can be adjusted by pressing the button. It is also simple to transfer from manual to power mode and then back again.
The BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel is another option. It comes with three levels of support, and can be operated by the joystick. This makes it perfect for those who require different levels of assistance in various situations. These kinds of power accessories can also help relieve the strain on your elbows and shoulders and elbows, allowing you to travel further and with less effort. This is particularly beneficial when you are concerned about the effect of long-distance propulsion on your shoulders.
Active Wheelchairs for Users
Active user wheelchairs are made for those who want to be independent and mobile and live an active life. They are lighter and more maneuverable than standard self propelled wheelchairs, meaning that users will have less wear and tear on their upper body. This allows them to travel for longer distances through challenging terrain without needing assistance.
A wheelchair that is designed for active lifestyles will have an elongated frame to enhance maneuverability. Additionally, the rear wheels are typically bigger than standard wheelchairs to enable the user to easily access them and then propel themselves forward. The backrest height is often lower to allow the user to move their arms and shoulders freely when self-propelling.
Powered add-ons are a great method to make your active wheelchair more efficient as they can provide additional power when needed. This is helpful when climbing up hills, travelling long distances or when the user is feeling exhausted. The user can control a powered add-on by using voice commands or eye movements. This can allow users become more self-sufficient and less dependent on someone else to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are a novel and exciting way to increase mobility and efficiency. They attach to the front wheel of a wheelchair, transforming it into a hand-bike that has three wheels, which allows users to travel faster and farther than they could by themselves. This is a great option for people who want to commute to work, run some errands, or simply enjoy a leisurely bike ride. The power bike can be adapted to meet the needs and preferences of the rider. There are various options for rear wheel angles, as well adjustable seat tension and footrest positioning. This gives you the most flexibility and individualization.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons connect to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs, replacing their existing rear wheels. They are simple to use and permit the user to go longer distances while requiring less effort. They are usually lightweight and feature advanced control systems to adjust programming, monitor battery levels and fault detection remotely.
These are accessories from the aftermarket that can be attached to a wide range of manual wheelchairs including folding models. what is self propelled wheelchair My Mobility Scooters include the SmartDrive MX2+ or Alber Smoov. The device is started through pushing one button or switch, and is controlled using the wristband wireless to start the motor and change settings like speed. Some models also come with a built-in push tracker to keep track of the amount of time the power add-on has been used.
They can aid people in climbing mountains and other obstacles easily. They are ideal for allowing users to keep their independence and continue to take part in everyday activities and work, socialize with friends and family, and travel more freely for leisure.
In some cases using a power assist option can prevent sores caused by pressure by reducing the amount of force exerted by the individual. They can also cut down on the time required to complete mobility tasks, and help people to get over obstacles like stairs, inclines, or curb cuts.
Many power-assist devices that fold come with the added benefit of being portable, enabling users to carry their wheelchairs with them on their trips in the family vehicle without the need for a fully-equipped van. They can be removed from the chair in order to travel for work or other activities and then reattached once they return home. This will allow people to continue their paid job, volunteer activities and other commitments to remain a valued community member and contribute to the society.
Non-folding power-assist devices are typically heavier and larger than their folding counterparts, however they can be compact when not being used. They are often foldable and have their accessories removed to create more space. They can be put in the trunk of a regular family vehicle, which permits individuals to travel with their families to work and other locations and visit relatives and friends.