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Electric Wheelchair
An electric wheelchair is a mobility device used basically by people who cannot propel a manual wheelchair. There are many different models of the electric wheelchair built to accommodate special needs.
Given below is a checklist of typical electric wheelchair features. This serves as a guide to choosing an electric wheelchair based on your special needs:
- What is the type of seat you prefer: rigid seat or sling seat?
- What postural supports, headrests are required?
- What is the type of cushion required?
- What method of control is available?
- Joystick
- Chin control
- Sip-puff control
- Head control
- Attendant control
- How long can the battery be used before recharging?
- Is the charger separate or built in?
- What is the type of armrest?
- Desk
- Full-length
- Detachable or fixed
- Flip-up
- Adjustable height
- What about the backrest? Is it a:
- Fixed angle
- Reclining
- Fold-down
- Check the footplates. Are they:
- Fixed or detachable
- Adjustable height
- Heel, calf support
- Elevating leg rest
- Choose the right type of wheel because it affects the maneuverability and smoothness of the ride. Smaller wheels are more suitable for indoor use.
Electric Scooter
When people find it difficult to use a wheelchair, especially when traveling long distances, an electric scooter can be considered. Two important factors to keep in mind while choosing an electric scooter is the ability of the user and where the scooter will be used.
Given below is a checklist of the typical features of an electric scooter. This serves as a guide to choosing an electric scooter based on your special needs:
- Three wheel scooters have a smaller turning circle and may have more legroom. Four-wheel scooters may be more comfortable over rough terrain.
- What is the length of the wheelbase?
- What is the overall width?
- How long can the battery be used before recharging?
- How easy is it to charge to batteries?
- What is the type of armrest?
- Lift-up
- Fixed
- Height adjustable
- What kind of controls is available?
- Finger or thumb operated
- One-handed operation
- Is a lever extension possible?
Maintaining an electric wheelchair and electric scooter
The electric wheelchair and electric scooter manual is the first place to look for maintenance and troubleshooting help. The electric wheelchair and electric scooter dealer or repair agent may be called for further help.
To do some repair work yourself, you need some basic supplies, like:
- Tire pump, gauge and puncture repair kit
- 2 tire levers
- Can of lubricant and grease
- Screwdrivers, spanners, pliers
- Rags for wiping parts
Maintenance equipment can be bought directly from the supplier or from a hardware store, bicycle workshop or service station. Make use of the services while the wheelchair is under warranty, especially for torn upholstery, any damage to the frame, motor, electrical wiring, batteries, drive belts or for adjustment to wheel bearings.
While transporting the electric scooter or electric wheelchair, consider:
- The type of car
- Can the electric scooter or electric wheelchair be disassembled?
- Try to use a lifter, carrier, ramps or trailer - whichever is available
Electric Bike/Electric Bicycle
An electric bike is a practical and affordable option for short trips and running errands. The range is between 15 to 20 miles. The electric bicycle operates silently and without vibrations and highly energy efficient. Electric bike enthusiasts build their bikes from low voltage DC motors (about 250-750 watts), two to three 12-volt batteries and speed controllers. An electric bicycle may employ various transmission methods to transmit power from the motor to the wheel. Most of the electric bike models are available readymade and in retrofit kit form.
We thank you for visiting our directory, and wish you well in whatever endeavor brought you here. We are constantly adding new information and resources to our site, both general and state specific in nature, so check back often.
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