Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Power assist add-ons enable wheelchair users to travel for longer distances and on challenging terrain. They also reduce the amount of effort needed to propel the wheelchair, which results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
These devices are easy to move and don't alter the appearance of the manual chairs. They are also simple to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive electric wheelchairs provide the highest level of stability and power. The large drive wheels are able to "grab" the road, enabling the chair to take on difficult terrains like grass, gravel or steps. This configuration is great when you need to maneuver your wheelchair in tight areas. You can make sharp turns easily with the front drive.
When choosing a wheelchair your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will consider what base and components are best suited to your requirements. In addition to the drive wheel configuration, the selection of an auxiliary power assist add-on should be taken into consideration. There are several different options for power assist, such as front-wheel, middle-wheel and rear-wheel power add-ons.
self propelled wheelchair with removable arms and refreshed WheelDrive add-on offered by Sunrise Medical features a dual rim design that provides different driving modes. The large 'assist wheel' provides you extra power with each push. This helps reduce fatigue and lets you go further with each push. The smaller 'drive' rim provides continuous power to aid in climbing. WheelDrive can be installed on nearly any manual wheelchair without any additional parts or modifications. It is also simple to switch between the two driving modes by pressing the power button with a simple click.
The power assistance is provided by the hub motor, which is a brushless design. It is powered by detachable, lightweight batteries and can be fully charged in less than two hours. Its compact design and simple operation make it an ideal option for those who require an extra boost when traveling longer distances. The WheelDrive does not require any maintenance unlike other battery-powered power assist add-ons, which can often be quite complicated to keep in good condition.
We recommend that you contact one of our ATPs to learn more and to view a demonstration if you are considering adding a power wheelchair that has front-wheel drive to your manual wheelchair. If you're considering the brand new Empulse 4Front 2 powered wheelchair it comes with iLevel. FrontDrive system standard comes with iLevel that raises the safe seat's elevation to 12 inches. This lets you perform everyday activities that require mobility life, like reaching, grooming and toileting at a higher, more comfortable height, which can help you live healthier and happier.
Rear Power Assist add-ons
Power wheelchair add-ons can reduce the amount of effort required to propel manual wheelchairs. They can also preserve shoulder health and decrease the fear of injury that is associated with prolonged, repetitive manual propulsion. The addition of power assist to your wheelchair enables you to travel farther as well as traverse steep slopes. You can also move through challenging terrain with more confidence.
Wheelchair power add-ons are categorized into rear attachments (such as the SmartDrive), front attachments that raise a manual wheelchair's caster wheels off the ground and replace them with a larger, centered wheel (similar to the bicycle) like the BATEC Manual or Rio Dragonfly and hybrid systems that incorporate both of these features. Front attachments are typically controlled via a hand-rim activated device like the Alber Smoov or Klaxon Twist, while rear attachments are typically joystick-converting devices such as the Alber E-Motion or SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair power add-ons are powered by rechargeable batteries, while others, like the WheelDrive, are connected to the motor inside the wheelchair and powered by the kinetic energy of the wheel's movement. The ones powered by batteries are generally smaller and lighter than those that rely on 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 axel of folding and rigid frame wheelchairs. It has three different support levels which can be changed at the press of an button. It is also easy to switch from manual mode to power mode and back.
Another option is the BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel, which also has three different levels of support. It can be controlled by a joystick, making it ideal for users who require varying degrees of power assistance in various environments. These power add-ons are also helpful in reducing stress on elbows and shoulders. This lets you travel farther and with less effort. This is particularly useful if you are concerned about the effects of propulsion over long distances on your shoulders.
Active Wheelchairs for Users
Active user wheelchairs are made for those who want to be independent and mobile and live an active life. They are lighter and more maneuverable than self-propelled ones. This means that the upper body will not be as worn out. They can also travel over difficult terrain for longer distances without assistance.
A wheelchair designed for an active lifestyle typically comes with a small frame size that helps increase mobility. Furthermore the rear wheels are typically larger than standard wheelchairs to enable the user to easily access them 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 are another fantastic option to make your active wheelchair more efficient, since they can offer additional power when required. This is useful when climbing up hills, navigating long distances, or when the user is feeling exhausted. The user can control a powered accessory via eye movements or voice commands. This can help users to become more independent and less dependent on someone else to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are an innovative and exciting way to increase mobility and efficiency. These attach to the front of a wheelchair to transform it into a tri-wheeled handbike which allows users to travel faster and farther than they would on their own. This is a great option for those looking to commute to work or for running errands or just want to take a leisurely ride. A power bike add-on can also be adjusted to fit the user's needs and preferences and preferences, with various rear wheel angles available, as well as the ability to adjust the footrest and seat tension. This provides the ultimate in flexibility and individualization.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons attach to the back wheels of manual wheelchairs, replacing their existing rear wheels. They are simple to operate and allow for greater distances to be covered with less effort. They are usually lightweight and offer advanced control systems that allow you to adjust programming, monitor battery level and fault detection remotely.
These are aftermarket components 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 started through pressing a button or switch, and is controlled by using the wristband wireless to start the motor and change settings like speed. Some also come with an integrated push tracker that can keep record of how far the power add-on is used.
They can help individuals climb up hills and other obstacles with ease. They are ideal for those who want to maintain their independence by continuing to participate in daily activities and working, as well as socializing with family and friends and move around more freely to enjoy leisure.
In some instances an assisted power option can help reduce the amount of pressure placed on the person. They also can reduce the time required to perform tasks that require mobility, and help people to overcome obstacles like stairs, inclines, and curb cuts.
Many of the power assist products that fold can be carried around, meaning that wheelchair users can take their chair on family trips without having to use a van. They can be detached from the chair to travel to work or other events and then reattached upon return. This can help people to retain their paid employment, volunteer work and other initiatives to continue contributing to society and become an integral part of the community.
When not in use non-folding power assist devices are typically heavier and bulkier. Many of them can be folded and have their accessories removed to save even more space. They can be tucked away in the trunk of any family car. This allows people to travel with their families, to work, to other locations and even visit family and friends.