Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that provide power assist for wheelchair users allow them to move further and traverse more difficult terrain. They also reduce the amount of effort needed for propulsion, resulting in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
They are simple to move and don’t alter the look of manual chairs. They are also simple to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive wheelchairs are most robust and stable. The large drive wheels can “grab” the road, enabling the chair to take on difficult terrains like grass, gravel, or steps. This is an excellent option for those who need to maneuver your chair in tight spaces because you can easily make sharp turns using the front drive.
During the wheelchair selection process your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will take into consideration which base and components will best suit your needs. In addition to the wheel configuration, the choice of an additional power assist add-on should be taken into consideration. There are a variety of options for power assistance, such as 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 different driving modes. The large ‘assist wheel’ gives you extra power with every push. This helps reduce fatigue and lets you increase your speed with each push. While the smaller ‘drive rim’ offers continuous power to make it easier to climb. WheelDrive can be installed on nearly any manual wheelchair with no additional parts or modifications. It is also simple to switch between the two driving modes pressing the power button in a simple way.
The brushless hub motor is powered by small batteries that can be detached and fully charged in just two hours. Its compact design and simple operation makes it the perfect solution for those who require an extra boost for traveling further distances. The WheelDrive is not in need of maintenance unlike other battery-powered power assist add-ons, which can often be a bit difficult to keep in good working order.
We suggest you contact one of our ATPs for more information and to see a demonstration if you are considering adding a power wheelchair with front-wheel drive to your manual wheelchair. If you’re considering the new Empulse 4Front 2 powered wheelchair, the FrontDrive standard model comes with iLevel, which raises the safe seat height to 12 inches. This allows you to perform the mobility-related tasks of your daily life such as reaching, toileting and grooming at a higher height.
Rear Power Assist add-ons
Power add-ons for wheelchairs can be a great way to reduce the amount of work required to propel a manual chair. They can also preserve shoulder health and decrease the fear of injury that comes with the repetitive, long-lasting manual propulsion. You can travel further, climb steep slopes, and maneuver through challenging environments by incorporating power assist into your chair.
The power add-ons for wheelchairs could be classified into three categories: rear attachments that are similar to the 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 are typically controlled via a hand-rim activated device, such as the Alber Smoov or Klaxon Twist, while rear attachments are usually joystick-converting devices, such as the Alber E-Motion or SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair accessories make use of rechargeable batteries, as do others such as the WheelDrive are connected to the motor of the wheelchair and powered by the energy generated by wheel’s rotation. Those that are powered by batteries are usually more lightweight and compact than those that are driven by kinetic energy from the wheel’s rotation.
Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most well-known wheelchair add-ons. It can be attached to the folding or rigid frame of active wheelchairs. There are three levels of support, and they are able to be adjusted by pressing one button. It is also easy to transfer from manual to power Assisted Self propelled wheelchair mode and back again.
The BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel is another alternative. It comes with three support levels, and can also be operated by a joystick. This makes it perfect for people who require different levels of assistance in different situations. These power add-ons can be helpful in reducing pressure on the shoulders and elbows. This lets you travel farther and with less effort. This is particularly useful in the event that you are concerned about the impact of propulsion over long distances on your shoulders.
Active Wheelchairs for Users
Active user wheelchairs are made for those who wish to be mobile and independent and live an active life. They are lighter and easier to maneuver than standard self propelled wheelchair with elevated leg rest-propelled wheelchairs, which means that users will see less wear and wear on their upper body. They can also travel over difficult terrains for longer distances with no assistance.
A wheelchair that is designed for an active life will have smaller frames to improve mobility. The rear wheels of a wheeled chair designed for an active lifestyle are typically larger than the standard ones to enable the user to get them easily and move forward. The backrest height is also usually lower to allow the user to move their arms and shoulders freely while self propelled wheelchairs uk-propelling.
Powered add-ons can be used to boost the efficiency of your wheelchair for active users. They can give you extra power when required. This is helpful when climbing up hills, navigating long distances or when the user is feeling exhausted. The user can control a powered accessory through voice commands or eye movements. This can help them to be more independent and reduce the need for someone else to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are an innovative and exciting way to improve mobility and efficiency. They attach to the front wheel of a wheelchair, transforming it into a handbike with three wheels, which allows users to travel further and faster than they could on their own. This can be beneficial for those who want to commute to work or run errands, or just want to take a leisurely ride. The power bike can be customized to suit the preferences and needs of the rider. There are different options for rear wheel angles, and also adjustable seat tension and footrest placement. This allows for the most customization and flexibility.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons can be attached to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs to replace their current rear wheels. They are easy to operate and allow users to travel greater distances to be covered with less effort. These are typically lightweight and offer advanced control systems that allow you to adjust programming, monitor battery level and fault detection remotely.
These are aftermarket accessories that can be connected to a variety of manual wheelchairs including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ and Alber Smoov. The device is activated by pressing an appropriate button or switch and controlled with the wireless wristband. Some models also come with a built-in push tracker to keep track of how long the power add-on is used self propelled wheelchair.
They can help individuals climb hills and other obstacles without difficulty. They help users maintain their independence by continuing with regular activities, work and spending time with family and friends.
In some instances using an assist device can reduce the risk of developing sores from pressure by reducing amount of force being applied by the person. Additionally they have been proven to decrease the amount of time required for an individual to complete mobility tasks and can make it easier to overcome obstacles such as curb cuts.
Many foldable power-assist products can be carried around, meaning that wheelchair users can take their chair on family trips without the need for a van. They can be separated from the chair to transportation to work or other occasions and then reattached on return. This will allow people to retain their paid employment or volunteer work, as well as other endeavours to continue to contribute to society and be an active member of the community.
When not in use, non-folding power assist devices are typically heavier and bulkier. They can be folded and have 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 even visit family and friends.