Invacare Harrier Plus User Manual
Invacare® Harrier Plus
TM
User Guide
2
Contents Page
Warranty Terms & Conditions……………………………………………………..
6
Standard Invacare Terms………………………………………………………………………… 6
Limitation of liability……………………………………………………………………………… 7
1 Useful Symbols In This Manual……………………………………………………..
5
2 Introduction……………………………………………………………………………
8
2.1 Intended Use………………………………………………………………………………….
9
2.2 Type Classification…………………………………………………………………………… 10
3 Safety Notes……………………………………………………………………………
11
3.1 Repair or Service Information………………………………………………………………... 11
3.2 General Safety notes…………………………………………………………………………. 12
3.3 Safety Information On Electromagnetic Interference………………………………………...
14
3.4 Safety Precautions/Safe Operation…………………………………………………………...
15
4 Some Useful Tips……………………………………………………………………... 18
5 Safety Inspection Checklist…………………………………………………………. 23
6 Trouble Shooting……………………………………………………………………... 26
6.1 Trouble Shooting – Mechanical……………………………………………………………….
26
6.2 Trouble Shooting – Electrical…………………………………………………………………
27
6.3 Checking Battery Charge Level………………………………………………………………
29
6.4 Care And Maintenance……………………………………………………………………….
30
6.5 Product End of Life…………………………………………………………………………...
30
7 Adjustment…………………………………………………………………………….. 31
7.1 Seat Depth And Backrest Angle Adjustment (Manual)………………………………………
31
7.2 Tension Adjustable Back Upholstery…….…………………………………………………..
33
3
7.3 Power Reclining Backrest (where fitted)…………………………………………………….. 34
7.4 Tray Assembly………………………………………………………………………………...
35
7.5 Installing Or Adjusting Lateral Supports (where fitted)……………………………………... 36
7.6 Lap Belt Adjustment…………………………………………………………………………. 37
7.7 Armrest Adjustment…………………………………………………………………………. 39
7.8 Installing/Removing Or Adjusting Headrest (where fitted)………………………………….. 41
7.9 Seating………………………………………………………………………………………...
42
7.10 Installing/Removing Seat/Back Cushion (where fitted)……………………………………..
42
7.11 Installing/Removing Seat Board……………………………………………………………... 43
7.12 Kerb Climber………………………………………………………………………………...
44
7.13 Leg Rests……………………………………………………………………………………. 45
7.14 Elevating Leg Rests………………………………………………………………………….. 46
7.15 Anti Tippers…………………………………………………………………………………
47
8 Batteries………………………………………………………………………………... 48
8.1 Removing/Installing……………………………………………………………………………
48
8.2 Disconnecting Battery Cables………………………………………………………………...
51
8.3 Connecting Battery Cables…………………………………………………………………...
53
8.4 Batteries And Charging……………………………………………………………………….
54
8.5 Disposing And Recycling Of Used Batteries………………………………………………….
57
9 Motor Locks, Wheels & Brakes…………………………………………………….. 58
9.1 Disengaging/Engaging Motor Lock Levers……………………………………………………
58
9.2 Drive Wheels…………………………………………………………………………………
59
9.3 Manual Parking Brakes………………………………………………………………………...
60
10 Transportation………………………………………………………………………… 61
10.1Disassembly and folding……………………………………………………………………...
65
11 Controls Systems……………………………………………………………………... 66
4
11.1 Types Of User Control ……………………………………………………………………..
66
11.2 Joystick Mounting Hardware………………………………………………………………...
67
12 Transfers………………………………………………………………………………...
68
13 Keeping Your Chair In Good Condition…………………………………………...
70
14 Fault Finding……………………………………………………………………………
72
15 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC...
73
Contacting Invacare…………………………………………………………………..
74
5
1
Useful Symbols In This Manual
WARNING!
This symbol warns you of danger! Always follow the instructions to avoid injury to the user or damage to the
product!
EXPLOSION HAZARD!
This symbol warns you of an explosion hazard, an example of which can be caused by excessive tyre pressure
in a pneumatic tyre!
• Always follow the instructions to avoid injury to the user or damage to the product.
BURN HAZARD!
This symbol warns you of burns due, for example, to leaking battery acid.
• Always follow the instructions to avoid injury to the user or damage to the product.
NOTE:
This symbol identifies general information which is intended to simplify working with your product and which
refers to special functions.
REQUIREMENTS:
This symbol identifies a list of various tools, components and items which you will need in order to carry out
certain work.
TRANSPORTATION:
This symbol identifies important information relevant to transporting your powerchair in a motor vehicle.
6
Warranty Terms & Conditions
Standard INVACARE Terms
This is to certify that your Powerchair is warranted by INVACARE Ltd. for a period of 2 years for parts, 3
years for frames and 12 months for batteries.
1. Only INVACARE chairs purchased at full price are warranted against defective workmanship and materials.
2. If a defect or fault is discovered the INVACARE dealer from whom the appliance was obtained should be
notified immediately.
3. The manufacturer will not accept responsibility for damage caused by misuse or non-observance of the
instructions set out in the user manual.
4. During the period of the warranty any parts that have become defective, due to faulty workmanship or
materials, will be renewed or repaired without charge by the INVACARE dealer.
5. The Warranty will be forfeited should any unauthorised alteration be made to the equipment.
6. The purchaser’s statutory rights under the Consumer Protection Act are not affected.
7
Limitation Of Liability
This Warranty does not extend to the consequential costs from fault clearance, in particular freight and travel
costs, loss of earnings, expenses, etc.
• Natural wear and tear
• Inappropriate or incorrect use
• Defective assembly or setting-up by the purchaser or third parties
• Defective or neglectful treatment
• Use of unsuitable spares
8
2 Introduction
Dear User,
First of all we wish to thank you for your confidence in our products. We hope you will enjoy your new
Harrier Plus
TM
Powerchair.
This manual contains important information and hints on:
• Safety
• Operation
• Care and maintenance
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, Invacare endeavours to supply a wide variety of wheelchairs to
meet many needs of the end user. However, final selection of the type of wheelchair to be used by
an individual rests solely with the user and his/her healthcare professional capable of making such a
selection.
Do not operate this equipment without first reading and understanding this manual. If you are
unable to understand the warnings, cautions, and instructions, contact your dealer otherwise injury
or damage may result.
The initial set up of this wheelchair must be performed by a qualified technician.
Procedures other than those described in this manual must be performed by a qualified technician.
9
Note:
Not all of the components within this manual will necessarily be available with your Power wheelchair. Any
references not applicable to your product should be ignored.
2.1 Intended Use
Indoor and outdoor configurable wheelchair offered with various options compliant with EN12184:1999
section 5 class B.
The Harrier PlusTM powered wheelchair has been designed to provide mobility and comfort for persons with
impaired mobility.
The wheelchair has been designed to be used either/or by a seated user/carer/attendant in both indoor and
outdoor environments.
The wheelchair has, in its standard format, been designed to accommodate users who have all limbs intact and
have sufficient upper body strength to maintain a safe position within the wheelchair without the addition of
supporting aids.
Adaptations from the standard wheelchair format are available to accommodate users who do not meet these
criteria but these will only be considered after a suitable assessment of the risks has been carried out by a
qualified person. When prescribing wheelchairs for use by full or partial amputees (above or below knee,
single or double) it is important to recognise that lower limb amputation will affect the sitting centre of
balance of the wheelchair. The impossibility of generalising the individual ability of a wheelchair user means it
is imperative that the product prescriber carries out a full stability evaluation to ensure that the user is safe in
the use of the wheelchair and the risk of the wheelchair tipping is minimised.
The wheelchair should only be used in accordance with the safety advice given within this user guide. Failure to
follow the recommended advice within this user guide could lead to personal injury.
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2.2 Type Classification
Your Powerchair is a Class B (EN12184) and Class 2 (Road Traffic Act) available with a maximum speed of
4mph for use only on pavements, footpaths, pedestrian zones and areas free from motor traffic. It is not
allowed on the highway except for the purpose of crossing. Under no circumstance must the top speed of the
Powerchair be increased, to do so will infringe the ‘The Use of Invalid Carriages on Highways Regulations
1988, Statutory Instrument 1988 No. 2268’
WARNING!
WEIGHT LIMITATION – Your Powerchair has a maximum user weight limit of 114kg/18stone.
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3 Safety Notes
3.1
Repair Or Service Information
Setup of the Electronic Control Unit is to be performed ONLY by a qualified technician. The final tuning
adjustments of the controller may affect other activities of the wheelchair. Damage to the equipment could
occur under these circumstances. Failure to adhere to the above statement will result in the warranty
becoming void.
Limitation of Use
• WEIGHT TRAINING – Invacare DOES NOT recommend the use of its wheelchairs as a weight training
apparatus. Invacare wheelchairs have NOT been designed or tested as a seat of any kind for weight
training. If occupant uses their wheelchair as weight training apparatus, Invacare shall NOT be liable for
injury and the warranty will become void.
• DO NOT attempt to move up, down or traverse an incline with a water, ice or oil film.
• DO NOT attempt to drive over kerbs or obstacles greater than 5cm unless a kerb climber is fitted. Doing
so may cause your wheelchair to turn over and cause bodily harm or damage to the chair.
• DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 6°. The maximum safe slope is 6°.
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3.2
General Safety Notes
GENERAL WARNINGS
• Performance adjustments should only be made by professionals of the health care field or persons fully
conversant with this process and the driver’s capabilities. Incorrect settings could cause injury to the
driver, bystanders, damage to the chair and to surrounding property.
• After the wheelchair has been set up, check to ensure that the wheelchair performs to the specifications
entered during the setup procedure. If the powerchair does NOT perform to specifications, turn the
wheelchair OFF immediately and re-enter setup specifications. Repeat this procedure until the wheelchair
performs to specifications.
• DO NOT use parts, accessories or adapters other than those authorized by Invacare.
• DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.
• Take care when disengaging automatic brakes if the chair is on a slope.
TYRE PRESSURE
• DO NOT use your wheelchair unless it has the proper tyre pressure. DO NOT over inflate the tyres.
Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tyre to explode and cause bodily harm. The
recommended tyre pressure is listed on the wall of the tyre.
BATTERIES
• The warranty and performance specifications contained in this manual are based on the use of deep cycle
gel cell batteries.
• Carefully read battery/battery charger information prior to installing, servicing or operating your
powerchair.
13
CLIMATIC TESTING
• Invacare has tested its power wheelchairs in accordance with ISO 7176 Part 9 ‘Climatic Test’. This
provides the end user or his/her attendant sufficient time to remove his/her power wheelchair from a rain
storm and retain wheelchair operation.
• DO NOT leave power wheelchair in a rain storm of any kind.
• DO NOT use power wheelchair in a shower or leave it in a damp bathroom while taking a shower.
• DO NOT leave power wheelchair in a damp area for any length of time.
• Direct exposure to rain or dampness will cause the chair to malfunction electrically and mechanically; may
cause the chair to prematurely rust.
• DO NOT use the joystick if the boot is torn or cracked. If the joystick boot becomes torn or cracked,
replace IMMEDIATELY.
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3.3
Safety Information On Electromagnetic Interference
This electric vehicle was successfully tested in accordance with international standards as to its compliance
with Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) regulations. However, electromagnetic fields, such as those
generated by radio and television transmitters, and cellular phones, can influence the functions of the electric
vehicles. Also, the electronics used in our vehicles can generate a low level of electromagnetic interference,
which however will remain within the tolerances permitted by law. For these reasons we ask you to please
observe the following precautions:
WARNING: DANGER OF MALFUNCTION DUE TO ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE!
• Do not switch on or operate portable transceivers or communication devices (such as radio transceivers
or cellular telephones) when the vehicle is switched on!
• Avoid getting too close to strong radio and television transmitters!
• In case the vehicle should be set in motion unintentionally or the brakes are released, switch it off
immediately!
• Adding electrical accessories and other components or modifying the vehicle in any way can make it
susceptible to electromagnetic interference. Keep in mind that there is no sure way to determine the effect
such modifications will have on the overall immunity of the electronic system!
• Report all occurrences of unintentional movement of the vehicle, or release of the electronic brakes to the
manufacturer!
15
3.4
Safety Precautions/Safe Operations
• The day to day activities and the more advanced powerchair techniques depend, on your physical
capabilities and your own specific circumstances. Our recommendations may occasionally differ from those
of your Therapeutic Adviser or Physician, as they may have a better understanding of your abilities. Where
this is the case, you MUST FOLLOW THEIR ADVICE, they are better placed to tell you what is suitable
for you and what is not.
• DO NOT use your powerchair when your driving ability is impaired by medication or alcohol.
• Avoid using your powerchair on rough ground or in adverse weather conditions (snow or ice), always
steer clear of obstacles where possible, ensure your clothing and hands are kept clear of all moving parts,
ask for assistance when descending or ascending steep gradients. Never attempt to negotiate stairs. Never
use an escalator to move a powerchair between floors. Due to both the weight of a powerchair and its
occupant it is not advisable to attempt to be assisted up and down stairs whilst the powerchair is occupied.
• If you are a user with limited mobility we advise that in the case of adverse weather conditions, i.e.
extreme cold, DO NOT attempt a journey without an accompanying attendant. In an event of a power
failure you could become stranded in an isolated area, where there is the strong possibility you will be
unable to get immediate assistance.
• Braking of your powerchair is dependant on electromagnetic motor brakes. When these are disengaged by
declutching the motor gear box drive system, the chair is in freewheel mode, this mode is for emergency
use only and motor gearboxes should remain engaged at all other times.
• To avoid the powerchair free wheeling special care must be taken to engage motor brakes.
• When using your powerchair indoors always consider the following potential hazards:
o Beware of the fact that many of the premises where you are likely to use your powerchair may not
have been designed with this consideration in mind. You should therefore have an awareness for
safety when encountering the likes of narrow doorways, steps, high surfaces, protruding wall fittings
and every day household items such as electrical appliances, etc. Take extra care in kitchen
environments.
Consider the fire evacuation procedures for buildings you may be entering. Never put yourself at risk, and
ensure that you can be evacuated in the event of an emergency.
16
NOTE
Powerchairs drive very quietly, generally travel faster than the average walking pace and are low to the
ground. Always consider these factors when using your powered wheelchair in busy pedestrian areas.
• Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be alleviated somewhat by learning how to manage
your wheelchair. Keep in mind your centre of gravity to maintain stability and balance.
• When learning a new technique, have an experienced assistant help you before attempting it alone.
SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
• Use this information only as a ‘basic’ guide. The techniques that are discussed on the following pages have
been used successfully by many.
• Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that may differ from those
described in this manual. Invacare recognises and encourages each individual to try what works best for
him/her in overcoming environmental obstacles that they may encounter, however ALL WARNINGS and
CAUTIONS given in this manual MUST be followed. Techniques in this manual are a starting point for all
new wheelchair user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.
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RECOMMENDED DRIVING POSITION
• INVACARE recommends that when driving your Powerchair during normal operating conditions the
following seat and back angles are maintained:
• Seat Angle: - approximately 4°
• Back Angle: - approximately 7° (i.e. fully raised if fitted with a recliner mechanism).
• Failure to observe the above precautions whilst driving may lead to instability, damage to the chair, user or
those around you.
SURFACES AFFECTED BY HEAT
The wheelchair is made from metal and plastic materials and, as with all products made with such materials, it
can absorb heat from the sun when used outdoors or exposed to sunlight through windows, etc. This can
result in the surfaces of the wheelchair becoming hot, so take care in using it and touching the surfaces if it is
left or used in such an environment.
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4
Some Useful Tips
• Before you venture off on your first journey, ensure that everything is adjusted to your specific needs, read
this manual to familiarise yourself with the product and its functions. DO NOT attempt to drive without an
attendant on hand until you are fully proficient in using and maneuvering your powerchair.
• Ensure power is switched off before transferring to or leaving your powerchair. Before switching on, check
that both motors are engaged, tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and are in good condition. When
on the move DO NOT attempt turns at full speed, especially while traveling downhill. Before changing
from forward to reverse, and vice versa, you must stop. Failure to do so will cause severe damage to the
electronics. DO NOT use your powerchair beyond its limitations.
• When entering or leaving your powerchair, DO NOT stand on the footplates.
• If you have to brake in an emergency, release the joystick. DO NOT switch off power while the
powerchair is moving, it would cause an abrupt, sharp stop.
• DO NOT use your powerchair beyond the limitations set out in this manual concerning kerb height,
gradients, etc.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
To ensure stability and safe control of your powerchair you must at all times maintain proper balance. The
powerchair is designed to remain stable and upright during normal use, so long as you do not move your
centre of gravity outside the normal seating position.
REACHING - BENDING FORWARD
• Ensure power is OFF. DO NOT lean your body forward out of the powerchair further than the length of
the armrests.
• DO NOT attempt to pick up objects from the floor by bending forward and reaching between your knees.
• DO NOT attempt to reach objects by sliding forward to the edge of the Powerchair seat.
19
REACHING - BENDING BACKWARDS
• Again ensure power is switched OFF.
• DO NOT reach back any further than your arm will extend without changing your sitting position.
• DO NOT lean over the top of the backrest as it will shift the centre of gravity, risking tipping over.
• DO NOT hang heavy loads or objects on the backrest. They may make the powerchair unstable, especially
on an incline.
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NEGOTIATING KERBS
When approaching kerbs wherever possible mount
and dismount pavements via ramps. Always approach
the kerb head on, not at an angle.
Without a Kerb Climber
Your Powerchair can safely climb kerbs of up to 5cm
without a kerb climber. Before negotiating the kerb,
ensure the speed control setting is set to maximum.
As the front wheels are about to make contact with
the kerb push the joystick fully forward and hold it
there until both front and rear wheels have climbed
the kerbstone.
With a Kerb Climber
If a kerb climber (optional) is fitted, your Powerchair
can safely climb kerbs of up to 10cm. Before
negotiating the kerb ensure the speed control setting
is set to maximum and the kerb climber is in the
engaged position (facing forward). As the kerb
climber makes contact with the kerb push the
joystick fully forward and hold it there until both rear
wheels have climbed the kerbstone. Your Powerchair
Prescriber will provide you with a demonstration and
instructions on fitting.
If the kerb climb is unachievable do not continue the
maneuver, move away from the obstacle and if
possible find an alternate location.
21
Descending a Kerb
1. DO NOT descend kerbs over 10cm.
2. Approach the edge of the kerb square on.
3. Look out for traffic.
4. Drive forward down the kerb.
The kerb climbing device should return to the
climbing position after each maneuver. If you require
further advice, please contact your INVACARE
dealer.
NEGOTIATING GRADIENTS/SLOPES
• The maximum safe slope is 6°.
• Never attempt to climb or descend an incline where the surface is rough, wet or slippery (gravel, loose
chippings, grass, rain, black ice, snow, etc.).
• If you are in a situation where by the Powerchair fails to climb a ramp and stalls midway through the
ascent, DO NOT attempt to turn the Powerchair to drive back down in a forward facing direction, always
reverse slowly in a steady, flowing action and DO NOT brake harshly, as this will upset balance in this
situation. If possible, always seek the assistance of an attendant.
Direction of Travel
22
YOU, YOUR POWERCHAIR AND OTHERS
• Powerchairs are strictly forbidden on motorways and highways with fast moving traffic (please refer to
section 2.2 ‘Type Classification’).
• On the pavement, in pedestrian zones or in supermarkets it is obvious that you must show as much
consideration and common sense to others as you expect from them.
• When you cross the carriageway of a public road take extra care and allow time to cross, observe the
Highway Code. Although you are not required by law to hold a driving license, you are responsible and
fully liable for proper operation. An important fact to bear in mind is that you must not present a traffic
hazard even in the event of a breakdown. The most common cause may be discharged batteries. It is
important to keep the batteries in a fully charged condition; we can only repeat this warning at this stage. If
you do suffer a breakdown for whatever reason, you should immediately: seek the assistance of a passerby. Explain where to find the motor disengagement/declutching lever, ask him/her to switch to freewheel,
so that the Powerchair can be pushed by hand and moved. When in a safe place always ensure motor gear
boxes are re-engaged.
SAFEGUARDING OTHERS
• We want you to get the most out of your INVACARE Powerchair, ensuring that the safety of yourself and
others is never in jeopardy. If you are in any doubt about safe techniques, handling or care of the
Powerchair, contact a recognised expert before putting yourself and others at risk.
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5
Safety Inspection Checklist
Initial adjustments should be made to suit personal body structure/user capability and preference. Thereafter
follow these maintenance procedures:
Initially
Inspect /
Adjust
Weekly
Inspect /
Adjust
Monthly
Inspect /
Adjust 6
Monthly
General
Wheelchair rolls straight (no
excessive drag or pull to one side)
X X
Electrics
Plug and socket connections
X X X
Batteries have been fully charged
before use of the chair
X X
Supporting brackets and fasteners are
not loose
X X X
Check cables for damage
X X
Clothing guards
Ensure no fasteners are loose
X X
Arms
Secure but easy to release;
adjustment handwheels engage
properly
X X
24
Initially
Inspect /
Adjust
Weekly
Inspect /
Adjust
Monthly
Inspect /
Adjust 6
Monthly
Adjustable height arms operate and
lock securely
X X X
Armrests
Inspect for rips in upholstery
X X
Arm rest pad sits flush against arm
tube
X X
Seat and back Upholstery
Inspect for rips or sagging
X
X
Drive Wheels
Ensure axle nut and wheel mountings
are not loose
X X X
No excessive side movement or
binding when lifted and spun when
disengaged (free spinning)
X
X
Tyres
Inspect for flat spots and wear
X X
X
If pneumatic tyres check for proper
inflation
X X
X
Cleaning
Clean upholstery and armrest
X X
X
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