|
Electric Wheel Chair
Wheel Chair Van ConversionWheelchair Van Conversion: Should You Choose It As An Option? Wheelchair-bound people and those in charge of ..... All About Electric Wheelchairs
A power or electric wheelchair is heavier than a manual wheelchair because it requires space for carrying the electrical circuit and batteries. However, the more modern and sophisticated electric wheelchairs are not that much heavy since they use the latest technology consisting of microprocessor chips and gyroscopic circuitry. Apart from being heavier than normal wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs are also more expensive. Among the latest electric wheelchairs available is the iBOT, which is a complete mobility system. This particular electric wheelchair can be used to climb stairs and enable the individual to do all sorts of other activities. The iBOT can be easily transported from one place to another because of its flexible structure.
The iBOT is a complete gyro-balanced mobility system that gives the user full control over its operational capabilities. Because of a wide range of functions and features and its ability to adjust itself according to whatever seating position the user desires, this electric wheelchair is expensive. Normally, iBOT is available at around $30,000, which is a considerable amount of money to be spent on a wheelchair even if it’s electric.
Before buying an electric wheelchair make sure you have done enough research on the company from which you are about to purchase the wheelchair. Ask about their warranty features and maintenance facilities provided in case something goes wrong with the electric wheelchair. Also make sure you get complete instructions manual to learn about the working of the electric wheelchair and safety measures in case of a mishap or emergency.
Electric wheelchairs differ in their mobility function. Some provide rear wheel drives, some front wheel drives, while there are some electric wheelchairs that provide mid wheel drives. Rear wheel is the most common technique to move the electric wheelchair, but it is not as much flexible as other techniques when it comes to turning. Mid wheel drives are not suitable for children as they may become unsteady on rough surfaces and are also difficult to start and stop. Front wheel drives are not very common, but they can provide steadiness as well as good turning capability.
The types of batteries employed for operating electric wheelchairs are also different. Wet batteries, gel batteries and AGM batteries are the most common types. Wet batteries cost lesser than other types, but they need to be filled with distilled water periodically. Apart from this, they are easy to maintain and are also less likely to become overcharged. Gel batteries do not contain liquid; instead they use a mixture of sulphuric acid, silica, water and phosphoric acid formed like a gel. There is no risk of leakage and no maintenance hassle as in the case of wet batteries. AGM batteries are a bit more expensive than both these types as they use the latest technology. They may get overcharged if left unattended for long periods of time and as a result their life decreases. AGM batteries contain glass between two saturated acid electrolytes.
|
