Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons that offer power assist enable wheelchair users to move further and traverse more difficult terrain. They also reduce the effort required to propel. This leads to lower heart rates, and less muscle fatigue.
These devices are easy to move and don't alter the look of manual chairs. They are also extremely simple to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive wheelchairs are the most robust and stable. The large drive wheels are able to "grab" the road, allowing the chair to traverse difficult terrains such as grass, gravel, or steps. This configuration is great for those who need to maneuver your wheelchair through tight spaces. You can make quick turns using the front drive.
When you are choosing a wheelchair, your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will take into consideration which base and components are best suited to your requirements. An add-on for power assist is also something to consider. There are many options available for power assist, including front-wheel add-ons, mid-wheel additions 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 larger 'assist rim' provides extra power assistance to each push, which reduces fatigue and lets you go further per push. The smaller 'drive rim' provides continuous power to aid in climbing. The WheelDrive is easy to mount on virtually every manual wheelchair with no additional parts or modifications and can be switched between the two driving modes with an intuitive power button.
The hub motor with a brushless design is powered by batteries of light weight that can be removed and fully charged in under two hours. self propelled all terrain wheelchair and simple operation makes it a perfect option for those who require an extra boost when traveling longer distances. The WheelDrive does not require maintenance, unlike battery-powered power assist systems that can be difficult to keep in good in good working order.
We suggest you contact one of our ATPs to get more information and to view an example if you're considering adding a power wheelchair with front-wheel drive to your manual wheelchair. If you're thinking about the new Empulse 4Front 2 power wheelchair the standard FrontDrive system comes with iLevel, which increases your safe seat elevation up to 12 inches. This lets you perform mobility-related activities of daily life such as toileting, reaching and grooming at a higher elevation.
Rear Power Assist Add-ons
Power accessories for wheelchairs are a great way to reduce the amount of effort required to push the manual chair. They also aid in maintaining the health of your shoulders and reduce the anxiety of injuries that come with continuous, repetitive, manual propulsion. Adding power assist to your wheelchair allows you to travel further distances, traverse steep slopes and move through challenging terrain with more confidence.
Wheelchair power accessories are classified into rear attachments (such as the SmartDrive) and front attachments that raise the caster wheels of a manual wheelchair off the ground and replace them with a bigger centered wheel (similar to a bicycle) such as the BATEC Manual or Rio Dragonfly and hybrid systems that combine both of these features. Front attachments can be controlled using a hand-rim-activated system like the Alber Smoov, Klaxon Twist or SmartDrive. Rear attachments are, however are devices that convert joysticks, like the Alber E-Motion and SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair power accessories are powered by rechargeable batteries, while others, such as the WheelDrive, are connected to the motor of the wheelchair and powered by the kinetic energy of the wheel rotation. Those that are powered by a battery are typically lighter and compact than those that are powered by kinetic energy from the wheel rotation.
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 support levels, and they can be changed by pressing one button. It is easy to switch between manual and powered mode and vice versa.
Another option is the BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel It also comes with three different support levels and can be controlled by a joystick, making it ideal for users who require varying degrees of assistance from power sources in various settings. These power add-ons are also helpful in reducing pressure on the shoulders and elbows. This allows you to go farther with less effort. This is especially useful if you are concerned about the effects of long-distance propulsion on your shoulders.
Active Wheelchairs for Users
An active user wheelchair is one specifically designed for those who lead an an active lifestyle and want to remain mobile and independent. They are much lighter and more manoeuvrable than standard self propelled wheelchairs, meaning that users will see less wear and wear on their upper bodies. They can also travel over difficult terrain for longer distances without assistance.
A wheelchair that is designed for an active life will have a smaller frame to increase mobility. In addition the rear wheels are typically bigger than standard wheelchairs to enable the user to easily reach them and then propel themselves forward. The backrest is usually lower to allow the user to move their shoulders and arms freely while self-propelling.
Powered add-ons can be used to improve the efficiency of your wheelchair for active users. They can provide extra power when required. This is useful when climbing up hills, navigating long distances or when the user is feeling exhausted. A powered add-on can be controlled by the user through voice commands or by moving their eyes. This can help with independence and reduce the need for a person 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, allowing users to travel further and faster than they could on their own. This is a great option for those who want to commute to work, run some errands, or simply enjoy a relaxing ride. The power bike can be adapted to meet the needs and preferences of the rider. There are various options for rear wheel angles as well adjustable seat tension and footrest placement. This offers the ultimate in flexibility and personalization.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons are attached to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs and replace the existing rear wheels. They are simple to use and enable the user to go on more distances with less effort. They are typically light and offer advanced control systems to adjust programming, monitor battery level and fault detection remotely.
These are aftermarket components that can be mounted on many 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 by 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.
They can help individuals climb hills and other obstacles with ease. They allow users to maintain independence by completing regular activities, work and socializing with family and friends.
In certain situations, a power assisted option can reduce the amount of pressure put on the person. In addition, they have been shown to cut down on the time required for the person to complete mobility tasks and can aid in overcoming obstacles such as curb cuts.
Many power-assists 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 removed from the chair to travel to work or other events and then reattached upon return. This could help people keep their job, volunteer 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 larger and heavier. Many of them are foldable and can be used with their accessories removed to create more space. They can be stored inside the trunk of any family car. This lets people travel with their families, to work, to other locations, and to visit family and friends.