Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Power assist add-ons enable wheelchair users to travel greater distances and over difficult terrain. They also reduce the effort needed to propel. This leads to lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
They are simple to move and don't alter the appearance of the manual chairs. They are also simple to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive wheelchairs are most stable and powerful. The large drive wheels can "grab" the road, enabling the chair to traverse difficult terrains such as grass, gravel, or steps. This is an excellent option for those who need to maneuver your chair through tight spaces because it is easy to make sharp turns with the front drive.
When choosing a wheelchair your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will consider what base and components meet your needs. An auxiliary power assist add-on is also something to consider. There are a variety of options for power assist, including 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 gives extra power assistance to each push, which helps reduce fatigue and lets you go further per push. The smaller rim for driving offers continuous power to make climbing easier. The WheelDrive can be mounted on virtually every manual wheelchair, without the need for additional components or modifications. It can be switched between two driving modes with an easy-to-use power button.
The power assistance is provided by an electric hub motor that is powered by detachable lightweight batteries and can be fully charged in less than two hours. Read the Full Post and simple operation makes it the perfect solution for those who require an extra boost to travel longer distances. The WheelDrive doesn't require any maintenance unlike other battery-powered power assist devices which can be a bit difficult to keep in good working order.
If you are considering adding a front-wheel drive power wheelchair to your existing manual wheelchair, we suggest that you contact one of our ATPs for more information and an opportunity to see a demonstration. If you're thinking about the new Empulse 4Front 2 power wheelchair, the standard FrontDrive system comes with iLevel, which raises your safe seat elevation up to 12 inches. This allows you to perform mobility related activities of daily living such as getting up, grooming and toileting at a more independent height, which can make your life more comfortable and happier.
Rear Power Assist add-ons
Power add-ons for wheelchairs can be a great way to reduce the amount of effort it takes to push the manual chair. They can also help maintain shoulder health and ease the fear of injury associated with continuous, repetitive manual propulsion. Adding power assist to your wheelchair enables you to travel farther as well as traverse steep slopes. You can also move through challenging terrain with greater confidence.
The power add-ons for wheelchairs can be divided into three categories: rear attachments which are similar to SmartDrive, front attachments that raise the caster wheels 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 are, on the other hand are a joystick conversion device such as the Alber E-Motion and SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair accessories use a rechargeable batteries, while others like the WheelDrive are connected to the motor in the wheelchair and powered by the kinetic energy generated by the wheel's rotation. These that are powered by batteries are typically lighter and compact than those that are powered by the kinetic energy generated by the wheel's rotation.
Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most popular wheelchair add-ons. It attaches to either the rigid or folding frame of active wheelchairs. There are three levels of support and they are able to be adjusted by pressing the button. It is also simple to switch from manual mode to power mode and back again.
Another alternative is the BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel that comes with three different levels of support. It can be controlled with the joystick, which makes it ideal for those who require varying degrees of power assistance in various settings. These types of power add-ons can also be used to help reduce the strain on your elbows and shoulders which allows you to go further and with less effort. This is particularly beneficial in the event that you are concerned about the effect of propulsion over long distances on your shoulders.
Active User Wheelchairs
An active user wheelchair is one specifically designed for those who lead an in a busy lifestyle and want to stay independent and mobile. They are much lighter and more manoeuvrable than standard self propelled wheelchairs, meaning that users will have less wear and tear on their upper body. This also allows them to travel for longer distances through challenging terrain without needing assistance.
A wheelchair specifically designed for active use will usually have a compact frame size, which helps to improve manoeuvrability. The rear wheels of a wheelchair made for an active lifestyle are usually larger than standard ones to allow the user to get them easily and propel themselves forward. The backrest's height is usually lower to enable the user to move their arms and shoulders freely when self-propelling.
Powered add-ons are a fantastic way to make your active wheelchair more efficient, as they can offer additional power when needed. This can be beneficial when climbing up hills, traveling long distances or when the user feels exhausted. A powered accessory can be operated by the user via voice commands or by moving their eyes. This can aid in independence and reduce the need for someone to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are an innovative and exciting way to improve mobility and efficiency. These attach to the front of a wheelchair and transform it into a tri-wheeled handbike, allowing the user to travel faster and further than they could on their own. This is a great option for those who want to commute to work, do around or just enjoy a relaxing ride. The power bike can be customized to meet the preferences and needs of the rider. There are a variety of options for rear wheel angles, as well adjustable seat tension and footrest positioning. 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 their existing rear wheels. They are easy to use and allow the user to take on more distances with less effort. They are usually lightweight and feature advanced control systems to alter programming, monitor battery levels and fault detection remotely.
These are aftermarket accessories that can be mounted on a wide variety of manual wheelchairs including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ or Alber Smoov. The device is activated by pushing one button or switch, and is controlled with an electronic wristband that can be used wirelessly to turn on the motor and adjust settings like speed. Some have a built in push tracker that keeps track of how much power the add-on was using.
They permit individuals to travel longer distances without fatigue and assist them to climb slopes and other obstacles more easily. They are ideal for helping users maintain their independence by continuing to engage in daily activities and work, socialize with family and friends and enjoy more freedom to travel to enjoy leisure.
In some cases the use of a power assist option can reduce the risk of developing pressure sores by reducing the amount of force being put on the body by the user. Additionally, they have been shown to reduce the amount of time it takes the person to complete tasks that require mobility and help them overcome obstacles like stairs, inclines and curb cuts.
Many power-assist devices that fold come with the added benefit of being portable, enabling users to take their wheelchairs along on trips in the family car without needing a fully equipped van. They can be detached from the chair in order to transport to work or other activities and then reattached when returning. This can help people to retain their paid employment or volunteer initiatives to continue contributing to society and be an active member of the community.
Non-folding power-assist devices are typically larger and heavier than their folding counterparts, however they can still be very compact when not in use. A lot of them can be folded and their accessories removed to free even more space. They can be put in the trunk of a family vehicle, which permits people to travel with their families to work or other locations, as well as visit relatives and friends.