Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that provide power assist enable wheelchair users to travel farther and over more difficult terrain. They also decrease the amount of effort needed for propulsion, resulting in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
These devices are easy to move and don't alter the appearance of manual chairs. They are also easy to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive electric wheelchairs provide the highest level of stability and power. The large drive wheels "grab" the road and let the chair navigate difficult terrain like gravel, grass, or steps. This configuration is great if you have to maneuver your wheelchair around tight spaces. You can make sharp turns easily with the front drive.
When making a selection your Therapist or Assistant Technology Professional will consider which components and bases best meet your requirements. In addition to the wheel configuration, the choice of an add-on power assist accessory should also be considered. There are many options available for power assistance, including front-wheel add-ons, mid-wheel add-ons, and rear-wheel add-ons.
The brand new and relaunched WheelDrive power add-on from Sunrise Medical offers a unique dual rim design that has different driving modes. The large 'assist' wheel gives you extra power with each push. This helps reduce fatigue and allows you to go further with each push. The smaller 'drive' rim offers continuous power to make climbing easier. WheelDrive can be mounted on nearly any manual wheelchair without additional components or modifications. It is also easy to switch between the two driving modes pressing the power button in a simple way.
The motor's brushless design is powered by lightweight batteries that can be removed and fully charged in under two hours. The compact design and easy operation makes it the perfect option for those who require an extra boost for traveling longer distances. The WheelDrive is maintenance-free unlike battery-powered power assist add-ons which can be difficult to maintain in good in good working order.
If you're 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 a demonstration. If you're considering the brand new Empulse 4Front 2 powered wheelchair that comes with FrontDrive, the FrontDrive system standard comes with iLevel, which raises the safe seat elevation to 12 inches. This allows you to complete the mobility-related activities of daily living, such as getting up, grooming and toileting at a greater height, which can make you healthier and happier.
Rear Power Assist add-ons
Power add-ons for wheelchairs can be a great way to reduce the amount of effort required to propel the manual chair. They can also preserve shoulder health and lessen the risk of injury that is associated with the repetitive, long-lasting manual propulsion. You can go further, traverse steep slopes, and maneuver in challenging environments by incorporating power assist into your chair.
The power add-ons to wheelchairs can be classified into three categories: rear attachments that are similar to the SmartDrive, front attachments that raise the wheels of a manual chair off the ground (similarly to a bicycle) and hybrid systems combining both features. Front attachments are typically controlled by a hand-rim activated device such as the Alber Smoov or Klaxon Twist and rear attachments are usually joystick-converting devices such as the Alber E-Motion or SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair power add-ons are powered by rechargeable batteries as well as others, like the WheelDrive, are connected to the motor of the wheelchair and are powered by the kinetic energy generated by the wheel's movement. The ones powered by batteries are usually smaller and lighter than those that rely on energy from the kinetic force to drive the wheels.
Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most popular wheelchair add-ons. It is attached to the rigid or folding frame of active wheelchairs. There are three support levels, and they are able to be adjusted by pressing one button. It is also easy to transfer from manual to power mode and then back again.
Another option is the BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel that comes with three different support levels and can be controlled using a joystick, making it ideal for those who require different levels of assistance from power sources in various environments. These power add-ons can be useful for reducing pressure on the shoulders and elbows. This lets you move further with less effort. This is particularly beneficial when you are concerned about the effect of long-distance propulsion on your shoulders.
Active User Wheelchairs
Active user wheelchairs are designed for those who want to be independent and mobile and lead an active lifestyle. These wheelchairs are lighter and more maneuverable than self-propelled ones. This means that the upper body will not be as exhausted. They can also travel for longer distances through challenging terrain without needing assistance.
A wheelchair that is specifically designed for active use typically comes with a small frame size that helps increase maneuverability. Additionally, the rear wheels are typically larger than standard wheelchairs so that the user can easily access them and propel themselves forward. The backrest is typically lower to allow the user to move their arms and shoulders freely when self-propelling.
Powered add-ons can be used to improve the performance of your wheelchair for active users. They can give you extra power when required. 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 eye movements or voice commands. This can help them to be more independent and reduce the need for someone else to push them.
The E-bike attachments to wheelchairs are a new 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, which allows users 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 some errands, or simply enjoy a relaxing ride. The power bike can be adapted to meet the requirements and preferences of the rider. There are various options for rear wheel angles as well adjustable the footrest and seat tension. This gives you the most versatility 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. self propelled wheelchair with removable arms are easy to use and allow the user more distances to be covered with less effort. They are lightweight and come with advanced control systems that allow remote fault detection and monitoring of battery levels and programming.
These are aftermarket attachments that can be connected to a range of manual wheelchairs, including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ or Alber Smoov. The device is activated by pressing one button or switch. It is controlled using a wireless wristband to activate the motor and adjust settings such as speed. Some have a built in push tracker that tracks how much power the add-on was used.
They can aid people in climbing mountains and other obstacles easily. They help users maintain their independence by completing their daily routine, working and spending time with family and friends.
In some instances, a power assisted option can help reduce the amount of pressure being put on the person. Additionally they have been proven to cut down on the time required for a person to perform activities that require mobility. They can also make it easier to 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 carry their wheelchairs with them on their trips in the family car without needing a fully equipped van. They can be removed from the chair in order to travel to work or other occasions and then reattached after they return home. This could help people keep their job, volunteer work and other endeavors to continue to be a valued community member and contribute to the society.
Non-folding power-assist gadgets are generally heavier and bulkier than their folding counterparts, but they can still be compact when not in use. A lot of them can be folded and have their accessories removed, which can save even more space. They can be put in the trunk of any family vehicle. This allows people to travel with their families to work, to other locations and also to visit friends and family.