Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that offer power assist for wheelchair users allow them to move further and traverse more difficult terrain. They also reduce the amount of energy required to propel the wheelchair, which results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
The best thing about these chairs is that they don't alter the style of a traditional chair and they are easily transported. They are also easy to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive electric wheelchairs give the highest level of stability and power. The large drive wheels can "grab" the road, allowing the chair to traverse difficult terrains like grass, gravel or steps. This configuration is also a great option if you have to maneuver your chair around tight spaces since you can easily make sharp turns with the front drive.
When you are choosing a wheelchair, your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will consider what base and components will best suit your requirements. In addition to the wheel configuration, the choice of an add-on power assist accessory should also be taken into consideration. There are many options for power assist, including front-wheel, mid-wheel, and rear-wheel power add-ons.
The brand new and relaunched WheelDrive add-on by Sunrise Medical features a dual rim design that provides different driving modes. The large 'assist' wheel gives you additional power with each push. This reduces fatigue and lets you get further ahead with each push. The smaller 'drive' rim gives you continuous power, making climbing more comfortable. The WheelDrive is simple to install on virtually every manual wheelchair, without the need for extra parts or modifications. It can be switched between the two driving modes with an intuitive power button.
The power assistance is provided by the hub motor, which is a brushless design. It is powered by detachable lightweight batteries that can be fully charged in less than two hours. Its compact size and user-friendly makes it the ideal solution for those who need a little extra help to travel for long distances. The WheelDrive is maintenance-free, unlike battery-powered power assist add-ons which can be difficult to keep in working in good working order.
We suggest you contact one of our ATPs to learn more and to see a demonstration if you are thinking about adding a power wheelchair that has front-wheel drive to your manual wheelchair. If you're considering the new Empulse 4Front 2 power wheelchair The standard FrontDrive system includes iLevel, which increases the safe seat height up to 12 inches. This allows you to perform the mobility-related activities of daily living, such as getting up, grooming and toileting at a higher, more comfortable height, which will make your life more comfortable and more joyfully.
Rear Power Assist add-ons
Power wheelchair add-ons can reduce the effort required to propel manually-driven wheelchairs. They also aid in maintaining shoulder health and lessen the fear of injury associated with repetitive, long-lasting, manual propulsion. By adding power assist to your wheelchair allows you to travel farther, climb steep slopes and maneuver in challenging environments with more confidence.
The power add-ons for wheelchairs can be classified into three categories: rear attachments which are similar to SmartDrive, front attachments that raise the wheels of the casters of manual chairs off the ground (similarly to a bicycle), and hybrid systems that combine both features. Front attachments can be controlled by a hand-rim-activated system, such as the Alber Smoov, Klaxon Twist or SmartDrive. Rear attachments, on the other hand are a joystick conversion device, like the Alber E-Motion and SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair power accessories are powered by rechargeable batteries as well as others, like the WheelDrive are connected to the motor in the wheelchair and are powered by the kinetic energy of the wheel's rotation. The ones that are powered by batteries are generally lighter and more compact than those that use kinetic energy to drive the wheels.
One of the most popular 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 support levels which can be changed at the push of a button. It is also easy to switch from manual mode to power mode and back.
The BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel is another option. It has three levels of support and is also controlled with the joystick. This makes it perfect for users who need varying levels of assistance in various situations. These power add-ons are also helpful in reducing pressure on shoulders and elbows. This lets you move further with less effort. This is especially beneficial when you're worried about the impact of self-propulsion for long distances on your shoulder health.
Active Wheelchairs for Users
A wheelchair for active users is one that has been designed for people who live an active lifestyle and want to remain mobile and independent. They are much lighter and more manoeuvrable than standard self propelled wheelchairs, which means that users will have less wear and wear on their upper body. They are also able to travel on difficult terrains for longer distances with no assistance.
A wheelchair designed for an active life will have an elongated frame to enhance mobility. Furthermore, the rear wheels are usually larger than standard wheelchairs in order to enable the user to easily access them and propel themselves forward. The backrest height is also often lower to allow the user to move their shoulders and arms freely while self-propelling.
Powered add-ons are another excellent option to make your active wheelchair more efficient as they can offer additional power when required. This is useful when going up and down hills, for long distances, or when the user is exhausted. The user can control a powered accessory through voice commands or eye movements. This can assist users become more self-sufficient and reduce the need for someone else to push them.
The E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are an innovative and exciting way to improve mobility and efficiency. These attach to the front wheel of a wheelchair and transform it into a hand-bike that has three wheels, allowing riders to travel faster and farther than they could on their own. This is an excellent option for those who wish to commute to work, do around or just take a relaxing bike ride. The power bike can be customized to meet the preferences and needs of the user. There are various options for rear wheel angles, and also adjustable the footrest and seat tension. This gives you the most versatility and personalization.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons connect to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs, replacing their original rear wheels. They are easy to use and allow the user to take on more distances with less effort. They are typically light and offer advanced control systems to alter programming, monitor battery levels and fault detection remotely.
These are accessories from the aftermarket that can be fitted to many manual wheelchairs, including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ or Alber Smoov. The device is activated by pressing a button or switch, and controlled by the wireless wristband. Some models come with a built in push tracker that tracks the amount of power that was using.
They can assist people to climb up hills and other obstacles without difficulty. They are perfect for allowing users to maintain their independence by continuing to engage in daily activities, work, and socialize with friends and family, and enjoy more freedom to travel for leisure.
In certain instances the use of a power assist option can help prevent sores caused by pressure by reducing the amount of force applied by the person. They can also reduce the time required to complete tasks that require mobility, and make it easier for individuals to conquer obstacles such as stairs, inclines, or curb cuts.
Many foldable power-assist products are portable, which means that wheelchair users can take their chair on family trips without having to use a van. They can be separated from the chair to transportation to work or other occasions and then reattached when returning. This will allow people to continue their job, volunteer activities and other commitments to remain a valued community member and contribute to the society.
Non-folding power-assist gadgets are generally larger and heavier than their folding counterparts. However, they can still be compact when not being used. Many of them are foldable and can be used with their accessories removed to create more space. self propelled all terrain wheelchair My Mobility Scooters can be tucked away in the trunk of a family car, which allows individuals to travel with their families to work and other locations and visit friends and relatives.