Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that offer power assist allow wheelchair users to move further and traverse more difficult terrain. They also reduce the effort needed for propulsion. This results in lower heart rates, and less muscle fatigue.
These chairs are simple to move around and don't alter the appearance of manual chairs. They are also simple to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive electric wheelchairs provide the most stable and power. The large drive wheels can "grab" the road and allow the chair to take on difficult terrains such as grass, gravel or steps. This configuration is great for those who need to maneuver your wheelchair around tight spaces. You can make sharp turns easily with the front drive.
When choosing a wheelchair your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will think about which components and base are best suited to your needs. An add-on for power assist is also something to consider. There are several different options for power assist, such as front-wheel, mid-wheel, and rear-wheel power 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 rim' provides extra power assistance to each push, which helps reduce fatigue and allows you to increase the distance you push. The smaller rim of the drive gives you continuous power, making climbing easier. WheelDrive can be mounted on almost any manual wheelchair with no additional parts or modifications. It is also simple to switch between the two driving modes by pressing the power button in a simple way.
The power assistance is provided by a brushless hub motor which is powered by detachable light batteries and can be fully charged in less than two hours. Its small size and user-friendly make it a perfect choice for those who require an extra helping hand to travel long distances. The WheelDrive is not in need of maintenance unlike other battery-powered power assist add-ons that can be a bit difficult to keep in good working order.
If you're thinking of adding a front-wheel drive power wheelchair to your existing manual wheelchair, we recommend that you speak to one of our ATPs for further details and an opportunity to see a demonstration. If you're considering the new Empulse 4Front 2 power wheelchair The standard FrontDrive system includes iLevel, which raises the safe seat height up to 12 inches. This allows you to perform everyday activities that require mobility such as toileting, reaching and grooming at a higher level.
Rear Power Assist add-ons
Power accessories for wheelchairs are great ways to reduce the amount of work required to propel manually a chair. They can also help maintain shoulder health and reduce the risk of injury that is associated with prolonged, repetitive manual propulsion. You can travel further, navigate steep slopes, and maneuver in difficult conditions by incorporating power assist into your chair.
Wheelchair power add-ons can be classified into rear attachments (such as the SmartDrive) and front attachments that raise the caster wheels of a manual wheelchair off the ground and replace them with a larger, centered wheel (similar to bicycles) like the BATEC Manual or Rio Dragonfly, and hybrid systems that include both of these 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, however are devices that convert joysticks, like the Alber E-Motion and SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair accessories utilize rechargeable batteries and others, like the WheelDrive are connected to the motor in the wheelchair and powered by the kinetic energy generated by the wheel's rotation. The ones powered by batteries are typically smaller and lighter than those that use energy generated by kinetic energy to drive the wheels.
Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most well-known wheelchair add-ons. It attaches to either the folding or rigid frame of active wheelchairs. There are three support levels, and they can be adjusted by pressing the button. It is also easy to transfer from manual to power mode and back again.
Another option is the BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel It also comes with three different levels of support. It can be controlled with the joystick, which makes it ideal for people who require different levels of power assistance in different situations. These power add-ons are also beneficial in reducing the pressure on elbows and shoulders. This lets you move further with less effort. This is particularly beneficial when you're worried about the effects of self-propulsion over long distances on the health of your shoulder.
Active User Wheelchairs
An active user wheelchair is one that is specifically designed for those who lead an in a busy lifestyle and want to stay mobile and independent. They are much lighter and more manoeuvrable than standard self propelled wheelchairs, so users will see less wear and wear on their upper body. They can also traverse difficult terrain for longer distances without assistance.
A wheelchair specifically designed for active use will usually have a compact frame size that helps increase manoeuvrability. The rear wheels of a wheelchair made for active use are typically larger than standard ones, allowing the user to reach them easily and then propel themselves forward. The backrest height is also usually lower to allow the user to move their shoulders and arms freely while self-propelling.
These add-ons powered by electricity can be used to boost the efficiency of your wheelchair for active users. They can supply additional power when required. This can be beneficial when climbing up hills, traveling long distances or when the user feels exhausted. The user can control a powered add-on by using eye movements or voice commands. This can allow users become more self-sufficient and reduce the need for someone else to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are a novel and exciting way to increase mobility and efficiency. These attach to the front wheel of a wheelchair to transform it into a handbike with three wheels, allowing riders to travel faster and farther than they could on their own. This is an excellent option for those who want to commute to work, do around or just take a relaxing bike ride. A power bike accessory can be adjusted to fit the needs and preferences of the user with a variety of rear wheel angles available along with the ability to adjust the seating tension and footrest position. This offers the ultimate in flexibility and individualization.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons are attached to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs, replacing their existing rear wheels. They are easy to use and allow users to travel greater distances to be covered with less effort. They are light and have advanced control systems that permit remote fault detection monitoring of battery levels, and programming.
These are accessories from the aftermarket that can be mounted on a wide variety of manual wheelchairs including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ and Alber Smoov. The device is activated by pressing one button or switch, and is controlled using a wireless wristband to activate the motor and adjust settings such as speed. Some models also have a built-in push tracker to keep track of the amount of time the power add-on has been utilized.
They allow individuals to travel greater distances without fatigue and help them climb hills and other obstacles with ease. They enable users to maintain independence by continuing to engage in their daily routine, working and socializing with family and friends.
In certain instances the use of a power assist option can help prevent pressure sores by reducing the amount of force applied by the person. Additionally they have been found to reduce the amount of time required for a person to perform tasks that require mobility and aid in overcoming obstacles like stairs, inclines and curb cuts.
Many foldable power-assist gadgets have the added benefit of being portable, which allows users to take their wheelchairs with them on their trips in the family vehicle without needing a fully equipped van. self propelled wheelchair near me mymobilityscooters can be separated from the chair to travel to work or other events and then reattached when returning. This will allow people to continue their paid employment, volunteering work and other endeavors to remain a valued community member and contribute to the society.
When not in use, non-folding power assist devices are usually larger and heavier. A lot of them can be folded and have their accessories removed, which can save even more space. They can be tucked away in the trunk of a family car, which allows individuals to travel with their families to work and other places, as well as visit relatives and friends.