Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Power assist add-ons allow wheelchair users to travel longer distances and on challenging terrain. They also reduce the effort needed to propel. This results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
The good thing about these devices is that they don't alter the look of a manual chair and they are easily transported. They are also easy to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive wheelchairs are the most stable and powerful. The large drive wheels are able to "grab" the road, enabling the chair to navigate difficult terrain like grass, gravel or steps. This is a great option if you need to maneuver your chair through tight spaces because it is easy to make sharp turns using the front drive.
During the selection process 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 additional power assist add-on should be taken into consideration. There are a variety of options for power assist, including front-wheel add-ons, mid-wheel additions, and rear-wheel add-ons.
The brand new and relaunched WheelDrive add-on offered by Sunrise Medical features a dual rim design that provides 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. While the smaller 'drive rim' offers continuous power to aid in climbing. The WheelDrive is simple to install on almost every manual wheelchair without any extra parts or modifications. It can be switched between two driving modes with an easy-to-use power button.
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 small size and easy to use make it the perfect solution for those who need an extra helping hand to travel long distances. The WheelDrive doesn't require any maintenance unlike other battery-powered power assist accessories which can be a bit difficult to keep in good condition.
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 that has front-wheel drive to your manual wheelchair. If you're considering the new Empulse 4Front 2 powered wheelchair that comes with FrontDrive, the FrontDrive system comes standard with iLevel which raises the safe seat's elevation to 12 inches. This lets you perform mobility-related activities of daily life like toileting, reaching and grooming at a higher elevation.
Rear Power Assist Add-ons
Power add-ons for wheelchairs are great ways to reduce the amount of effort it takes to push manually a chair. They also aid in maintaining shoulder health and ease the fear of injury associated with continuous, repetitive manual propulsion. Adding power assist to your wheelchair enables you to travel further, climb steep slopes and move through challenging terrain with greater confidence.
The power add-ons to wheelchairs can be divided into three categories: rear attachments, that are similar to the SmartDrive, front attachments that raise the caster wheels of manual chairs off the ground (similarly to a bicycle), and hybrid systems combining both features. Front attachments are typically controlled by 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 accessories are powered by a rechargeable battery, while others, like the WheelDrive are connected to the motor inside the wheelchair and powered by the kinetic energy generated by the wheel's rotation. These that are powered by a battery are usually lighter and compact than those that are powered by kinetic energy from the wheel's rotation.
Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most popular wheelchair add-ons. It is attached to the folding or rigid frame of active wheelchairs. There are three levels of support, and they are able to be adjusted by pressing one button. It is also simple to switch from manual mode to power mode and back again.
Another option is the BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel that comes with three different support levels and can be controlled with the joystick, which makes it ideal for users who require different levels of power assistance in different environments. These power accessories are beneficial in reducing the stress on elbows and shoulders. This lets you travel farther and with less effort. This is especially useful in the event that you are concerned about the effects of propulsion for long distances on your shoulders.
Active User Wheelchairs
Active user wheelchairs are designed for those who want to be mobile and independent and live an active life. They are lighter and more manoeuvrable than standard self propelled wheelchairs, meaning that users will have less wear and tear on their upper body. They can also travel for longer distances through challenging terrain without the need for assistance.
A wheelchair specifically designed for active use typically has a smaller frame size, which helps to improve maneuverability. Furthermore, the rear wheels are typically bigger 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 shoulders and arms freely while self-propelling.
These add-ons powered by electricity can be used to boost the efficiency of your wheelchair for active users. They can supply additional power when required. This is useful when climbing up hills, traveling long distances, or when the user is exhausted. A powered add-on can be operated by the user via voice commands or by moving their eyes, which could help with independence and reduce the need for a person to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are a novel and exciting method of improving mobility and efficiency. They attach to the front wheel of a wheelchair and transform it into a hand-bike 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 errands or simply enjoy a leisurely bike ride. The power bike can be customized to suit the preferences and needs of the user. There are different options for rear wheel angles, and also adjustable the footrest and seat tension. This allows for the highest level of personalization and versatility.
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 longer distances while requiring less effort. They are usually lightweight and have advanced control systems to alter programming, monitor battery level and fault detection remotely.
easy self-propelled wheelchair are accessories from the aftermarket that can be fitted to a wide variety of manual wheelchairs including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ and Alber Smoov. The device is activated by pressing one button or switch and is controlled with an electronic wristband that can be used wirelessly to turn on the motor and adjust settings such as speed. Some models come with an integrated push tracker that tracks the amount of power that was using.
They can help individuals climb up hills and other obstacles with ease. They are perfect for those who want to remain independent by continuing to engage in daily activities and working, as well as socializing with friends and family, and enjoy more freedom to travel to enjoy leisure.
In some cases an assisted power option can help reduce the amount of pressure being placed on the person. Additionally, they have been shown to reduce the amount of time it takes for a person to perform activities that require mobility. They can also aid in overcoming obstacles such as stairs, inclines and curb cuts.
Many power-assist devices that fold have the added benefit of being portable, which allows users to take their wheelchairs along on trips in the family car without the need for a fully-equipped van. They can be removed from the chair in order to travel for work or other activities and then reattached once they return home. This could help people keep their job, volunteer activities and other commitments to remain an active member of the community and contribute to society.
Non-folding power-assist gadgets are generally heavier and bulkier than their folding counterparts. However, they can still be compact when not being used. A lot of them fold and have their accessories removed to create more space. They can be tucked away in the trunk of a regular family car, which allows individuals to travel with their families to work and other places and also visit friends and relatives.