Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that provide power assist for wheelchair users allow them to travel further and over more difficult terrain. They also reduce the effort required to propel. This results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
The best aspect of these chairs is that they don't alter the look of a manual chair, and they can be easily moved. They are also easy to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive wheelchairs are most robust and stable. The large drive wheels can "grab" the road, allowing the chair to take on difficult terrain like grass, gravel or steps. This configuration is also an ideal choice if you need to maneuver your chair around tight spaces since it is easy to make sharp turns with the front drive.
During the wheelchair selection process your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will consider what base and components will best suit your needs. An auxiliary power assist add-on is also something to consider. There are many 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 that has different driving modes. The large 'assist ' rim offers additional power assistance with each push, which reduces fatigue and allows you to increase the distance you push. While the smaller 'drive rim' offers continuous power to aid in climbing. The WheelDrive can be mounted on almost every manual wheelchair, without the need for additional parts or modifications and can be switched between the 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 that can be fully charged in less than two hours. Its compact size and easy to use make it the perfect solution for those who require some extra assistance to travel for long distances. The WheelDrive is not in need of maintenance, unlike other battery powered power assist accessories that can be quite complicated to keep in good condition.
If lightweight self propelled folding wheelchair considering adding a front-wheel drive power wheelchair to your manual wheelchair, we suggest that you speak to one of our ATPs for more details and an example. If you're thinking about the new Empulse 4Front 2 power wheelchair The standard FrontDrive system includes iLevel, which increases your safe seat elevation 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 wheelchair accessories can cut down on the effort required to propel manual wheelchairs. They can also preserve shoulder health and decrease the risk of injury that comes with long-term, repetitive manual propulsion. The addition of power assist to your wheelchair allows you to travel farther, climb steep slopes and move through challenging terrain with more confidence.
The power add-ons for wheelchairs can be divided into three categories: rear attachments which are similar to the SmartDrive, front attachments that raise the caster wheels of manual chairs off of 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 devices that convert joysticks, like the Alber E-Motion and SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair add-ons make use of rechargeable batteries, while others like the WheelDrive are connected to the motor of the wheelchair and powered by the energy generated by wheel's rotation. The ones that are powered by batteries are typically lighter and more compact than those that rely on kinetic energy to drive the wheels.
Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most popular wheelchair add-ons. It attaches to either the folding or rigid frame of active wheelchairs. There are three levels of support and they can be changed by pressing the button. It is also simple to transfer from manual to power mode and then 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, making it ideal for those who require different levels of power assistance in different settings. These power accessories are useful for reducing pressure on the shoulders and elbows. This allows you to go farther with less effort. This is especially 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 designed for those who wish to be independent and mobile and live a full life. These wheelchairs are lighter and more maneuverable than self-propelled ones. This means that the upper body will be less exhausted. They can also travel over difficult terrains for longer distances with no assistance.
A wheelchair designed for an active life will have a smaller frame to increase mobility. The rear wheels of a wheelchair made for active use are typically larger than the standard ones to enable the user to reach them easily and move forward. The backrest is typically lower so that the user can move their arms and shoulders freely when self-propelling.
Powered add-ons can be used to increase the performance of your wheelchair for active users. They can supply additional power when required. This can be helpful for climbing up hills, navigating long distances or when the user is feeling exhausted. The user can control a powered add-on through eye movements or voice commands. This can assist users to become more independent and less dependent on 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 of a wheelchair to transform it into a tri-wheeled handbike that allows users to travel faster and further than they could on their own. This is an excellent option for those who want to commute to work, do errands or simply enjoy a relaxing ride. A power bike add-on can be adjusted to fit the needs and preferences of the user and preferences, with various rear wheel angles available, as well as an adjustable seating tension and footrest position. This lets you achieve the most personalization and versatility.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons can be attached to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs and replace the existing rear wheels. They are easy to use and allow for greater distances to be covered with less effort. These are typically lightweight and offer 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 pressing the button or switch and is controlled using a wireless wristband. Some models also come with a built-in push tracker to keep record of how far the power add-on has been utilized.
They permit individuals to travel greater distances without getting tired and can help them climb slopes and other obstacles more easily. They allow users to maintain independence by continuing with regular activities, work and having fun with friends and family.
In certain situations the use of a power-assist option can reduce the amount of pressure exerted on the individual. In addition they have been found to decrease the amount of time it takes the person to complete mobility tasks and can make it easier to overcome obstacles like stairs, inclines and curb cuts.
Many power-assists that fold are portable, so wheelchair users can take their chair on family trips without having to use a van. They can be removed from the chair to travel for work or other activities and then reattached after they return home. This can help people maintain their paid employment, volunteering work and other endeavors to continue to be an active member of the community and contribute to society.
When not in use, non-folding power assist devices are typically heavier and bulkier. A lot of them can be folded, and their accessories removed, which can save even more space. They can be tucked away in the trunk of any family vehicle. This allows people to travel with their families to work, to other locations and even visit friends and family.