Invacare Powered Seating User Manual

Owner’s Operator and Maintenance Manual

Formula™

Powered Seating

Tilt Recline Elevate

Tilt/Recline Tilt/Elevate

Tilt/Recline/Elevate

DEALER: This manual MUST be given to the user of the product.

USER:

manual and save for future reference.

BEFORE using this product, read this

For more information regarding

Invacare products, parts, and services,

please visit www.invacare.com

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

 WARNING

A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST PERFORM THE INITIAL SET UP OF THIS WHEELCHAIR. ALSO, A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST PERFORM ALL PROCEDURES IN THE SERVICE MANUAL.

WHEELCHAIR USERS: DO NOT SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING (1) THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL AND (2) THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF APPLICABLE). IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT INVACARE TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE INJURY OR DAMAGE MAY RESULT.

DEALERS AND QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS: DO NOT SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING (1) THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL, (2) THE SERVICE MANUAL (IF APPLICABLE) AND (3) THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF APPLICABLE). IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT INVACARE TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE, INJURY OR DAMAGE MAY RESULT.

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

DOCUMENT PART NUMBER

MK6i™Electronics Field Service Guide 1141471

MK6i Electronics Service Manual 1143203

Formula TRE Service Manual 1123820

 WARNING

Refer to wheelchair base owner’s manual for additional safety and operation information.

NOTE: Updated versions of this manual are available on www.invacare.com.

Formula™ Powered Seating 2 Part No 1122170

TABLE OF CONTENTS

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS ................................................................. 2

SPECIAL NOTES ................................................................................ 5

LABEL LOCATIONS ........................................................................... 7

All Wheelchairs...........................................................................................................................................7

Wheelchairs with Elevate .........................................................................................................................8

Wheelchairs with Ventilator Trays ........................................................................................................8

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS .................................................... 9

Formula Powered Seating Systems.........................................................................................................9

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES ................................................. 11

Repair or Service Information ...............................................................................................................11

Operation Information............................................................................................................................11

Weight Training ........................................................................................................................................14

Weight Limitation.....................................................................................................................................14

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION ..................................................... 15

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS ......................... 17

Pinch Points................................................................................................................................................17

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING .................... 18

Safety Inspection Checklists...................................................................................................................18

Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................20

SECTION 5—WHEELCHAIR OPERATION ........................................... 23

A Note About Drive Lock-Out ............................................................................................................23

Operating Powered Seating Systems ...................................................................................................24

MPJ+ Joystick Switches and Indicators ................................................................................................28

Preparing the Joystick for Use...............................................................................................................33

Repositioning the Joystick.......................................................................................................................34

SECTION 6—FRONT RIGGINGS ........................................................ 35

Installing/Removing Footrests................................................................................................................35

Footrest Height Adjustment..................................................................................................................36

Raising/Lowering Elevating Front Riggings ..........................................................................................38

Adjusting/Replacing Telescoping Front Rigging Support .................................................................38

Installing Adjustable Angle Flip-up Footplate Hinge .........................................................................40

Installing Adjustable Angle Flip-up Footplates....................................................................................40

Adjusting Adjustable Angle Flip-Up Footplates .................................................................................41

Composite/Articulating Footplate Heel Loop Replacement ..........................................................42

Installing/Removing Elevating Legrests.................................................................................................43

Raising/Lowering Elevating Legrests and/or Adjusting Calfpads ....................................................44

Removing/Installing the Center Mount Footrest ..............................................................................45

Adjusting the Height of the Center Mount Footrest.......................................................................47

Adjusting the Angle of the Manual Center Mount Footrest ..........................................................48

Part No 1122170 3 Formula™ Powered Seating

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Adjusting the Footplate Angle ...............................................................................................................48

Adjusting the Tension of the Flip Up Footplate ................................................................................49

Calf Pad Adjustment for Power Center Mount Footrests .............................................................50

Installing/Removing the Power Elevating Legrests ............................................................................51

SECTION 7—ARMS ......................................................................... 53

Installing/Removing Flip Back Armrests ..............................................................................................53

Adjusting Flip Back Armrests.................................................................................................................54

Removing/Installing Reclining Armrests ..............................................................................................55

Adjusting Reclining Armrest Height.....................................................................................................56

SECTION 8—SEAT ........................................................................... 58

Adjusting the Back Angle ........................................................................................................................58

Replacing Seat Positioning Strap ...........................................................................................................59

SECTION 9—HEADREST .................................................................. 60

Removing/Installing/Adjusting Headrest ..............................................................................................60

Replacing Headrest ..................................................................................................................................61

SECTION 10—ELEVATE BATTERIES ................................................. 62

Warnings for Handling and Replacing Batteries ................................................................................62

Using the Proper Batteries.....................................................................................................................63

Replacing Batteries ...................................................................................................................................63

Cleaning Battery Terminals....................................................................................................................66

Removing/Installing the Batteries From/Into the Wheelchair........................................................66

When to Charge Batteries.....................................................................................................................70

Charging Batteries ....................................................................................................................................70

SECTION 11—VENTILATOR TRAY ................................................... 73

Preparing the Ventilator Tray for Use.................................................................................................73

GLOBAL LIMITED WARRANTY (EXCLUDING CANADA) ................... 75

CANADA LIMITED WARRANTY ...................................................... 76

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1. Safeguarding your investment.

2. Ensuring long-term maintenance and servicing of your product.

3. Receiving updates with product information, maintenance tips and industry news.

Please have your model number and purchase date available to complete your registration.

Any registration information you submit will only be used by Invacare Corporation and protected as required by applicable laws and regulations.

Formula™ Powered Seating 4 Part No 1122170

SPECIAL NOTES

Signal words are used in this manual and apply to hazards or unsafe practices which could result in personal injury or property damage. Refer to the table below for definitions of the signal words.

SIGNAL WORD MEANING

Danger indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided,

DANGER

WARNING

CAUTION

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

WHEELCHAIR USER

will result in death or serious injury.

Warning indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Caution indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

NOTICE

As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, Invacare endeavors 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. Invacare highly recommends working with a certified rehab technology supplier and/or a member of NRRTS or RESNA.

WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS (TRBKTS)

TRBKTS includes four factory-installed wheelchair transport brackets. TRBKTS has not been crash-tested in accordance with WC 19. Use these transport brackets only to secure an unoccupied wheelchair during transport.

As of this date, the Department of Transportation has not approved any tie-down systems for transportation of a user while in a wheelchair, in a moving vehicle of any type. It is Invacare’s position that users of wheelchairs should be transferred into appropriate seating in vehicles for transportation and use be made of the restraints made available by the auto industry. Invacare cannot and does not recommend any wheelchair transportation systems.

 TRBKTS WARNINGS

Only use the transport brackets included with TRBKTS for the purposes described in this manual.

Part No 1122170 5 Formula™ Powered Seating

SPECIAL NOTES

 WARNING

Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction with Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not been tested by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.

The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately.

To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice use of this product on various sloping surfaces in the presence of a qualified healthcare provider before attempting active use of this wheelchair. Other general warnings listed within this document also apply.

Wheelchairs should be examined during maintenance for signs of corrosion (water exposure, incontinence, etc.). Electrical components damaged by corrosion should be replaced IMMEDIATELY.

Wheelchairs that are used by incontinent users and/or are frequently exposed to water may require replacement of electrical components more frequently.

Refer to wheelchair base owner’s manual for additional safety and operation information.

 POWERED SEATING SYSTEM WARNINGS

This seating system has been custom designed and will be assembled to the wheelchair base before delivery to the user. The information contained in this manual is for maintaining and adjusting the seating system. There are very few adjustments that can safely be made by the user. If there is a procedure or adjustment that needs to be performed on the seating system that is not in this manual, DO NOT perform that procedure. Have the seating system serviced by a qualified technician.

Formula™ Powered Seating 6 Part No 1122170

LABEL LOCATIONS

NOTE: Refer to Owner’s Manual shipped with wheelchair base for additional labels located on wheelchair base.

All Wheelchairs

Weight Capacity Label

located here

Serial Number Located HERE

WARNING

reposition the seat - otherwise serious personal injury and damage will result.

Refer to Service Manual to

P/N 1114823 Rev B - 5/10/06

NOTE: Auto style seat

positioning strap shown. This label is also on the airline style seat positioning strap.

Part No 1122170 7 Formula™ Powered Seating

LABEL LOCATIONS

Wheelchairs with Elevate

Wheelchairs with Ventilator Trays

Formula™ Powered Seating 8 Part No 1122170

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

Formula Powered Seating Systems

CONTOURA BACKS CONVENTIONAL

BACKS

SEAT WIDTH RANGE: 16 - 24 inches in 2-inch

increments

SEAT DEPTH RANGE

SMALL FRAME: LARGE FRAME: EXTRA LARGE FRAME:

BACK HEIGHT RANGE

Adjustable in 1-inch increments 16 - 18 inches 19 - 21 inches 22 inches

Not Adjustable

16 - 24 inches in 1-inch increments

Adjustable in 1-inch increments 16 - 19 inches 20 - 22 inches N/A

Not Adjustable

ALL SYSTEMS EXCEPT ELEVATE ONLY: ELEVATE ONLY:

BACK ANGLE RANGE

TILT ONLY, TILT/ELEVATE AND ELEVATE ONLY: 85° - 105° in 5° increments

TILT RANGE

TILT, TILT/RECLINE OR TILT/RECLINE/ELEVATE

0° Seat Angle: 5° Seat Angle:

RECLINE RANGE (MEASURED RELATIVE TO THE GROUND)

RECLINE ONLY, TILT/RECLINE AND TILT/ RECLINE/ELEVATE

0° Seat Angle: 5° Seat Angle:

SEAT-TO-FLOOR

0° SEAT ANGLE: 5° SEAT ANGLE:

ELEVATE RANGE: 7.0 inches

*OVERALL WIDTH WITH MODEL RA19 ARMS

WITH 4-WAY SWITCH: OVER ARMPADS:

*OVERALL HEIGHT (CONVENTIONAL BACK WITHOUT HEADREST): 41.5 inches

25 inches and 29.5 inches N/A

0° - 55° ± 3° 5° - 60° ± 3°

90° - 170° ± 3° 95° - 170° ± 3°

18 inches ± .25 inches

19.8 inches ± .25 inches

30.70 inches

28.75 inches

NOTE: All dimensions are ± .50 inches unless otherwise indicated.

20 - 26 inches 16 - 24 inches

*NOTE: 20-inch deep x 20-inch wide with 24-inch high back.

**NOTE: Weight limitation is total weight (user weight plus any additional items that the user may require [back pack, etc.]). Example: If weight limitation of the wheelchair is 300 lbs and additional items equal 25 lbs, subtract 25 lbs from 300 lbs. This means the maximum weight limitation of the user is 275 lbs.

Part No 1122170 9 Formula™ Powered Seating

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

CONTOURA BACKS CONVENTIONAL

BACKS

*OVERALL LENGTH

WITH MANUAL CENTER MOUNT FOOTREST AT 90°: WITHOUT FRONT RIGGINGS, FULL LENGTH ARM, MPJ™JOYSTICK:

ARMRESTS

TILT ONLY, TILT/ELEVATE AND ELEVATE ONLY:

RECLINE ONLY, TILT/RECLINE AND TILT/ RECLINE/ELEVATE:

LEGRESTS: Swingaway Footrests, Power or Manual Center Mount

HEADRESTS: Curved, Contoured, Small or Large

WEIGHT LIMITATION:

ALL SEATING SYSTEMS WITH ELEVATE: ALL SEATING SYSTEMS WITHOUT HEAVY DUTY OPTION: TILT ONLY, RECLINE ONLY OR TILT/RECLINE SYSTEMS WITH HEAVY DUTY OPTION: ALL SEATING SYSTEMS WITH VENT TRAY:

41.5 inches

37.38 inches

Flip Back, Adjustable Height (9 - 13 inches) - Desk or Full Length

Adjustable Height (11 - 16 inches) - Desk or Full Length

Footrests, Manual or Power Elevating Legrests

300 lbs

400 lbs Subtract 50 lbs from the seating system weight limitations (250 and 350 lbs respectively)

NOTE: All dimensions are ± .50 inches unless otherwise indicated.

*NOTE: 20-inch deep x 20-inch wide with 24-inch high back.

 WARNING

If the seating system is mounted onto a power wheelchair that has a weight limitation greater than that of the seating system, the weight limitation is maintained at the seating system’s limitation. Example: If a seating system with a weight limitation of 300 lbs is mounted onto a power wheelchair with a weight limitation of 400 lbs, then the power wheelchair is restricted to a 300 lb weight limitation.

Formula™ Powered Seating 10 Part No 1122170

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

 WARNING

SECTION 1 - GENERAL GUIDELINES contains important information for the safe operation and use of this product. DO NOT use this product or any available optional equipment without first completely reading and understanding these instructions and any additional instructional material such as Owner’s Manuals, Service Manuals or Instruction Sheets supplied with this product or optional equipment. If you are unable to understand the Warnings, Cautions or Instructions, contact a healthcare professional, dealer or technical personnel before attempting to use this equipment - otherwise, injury or damage may occur.

Repair or Service Information

Except for programming, DO NOT service or adjust the wheelchair while occupied, unless otherwise noted.

A pinch point exists between walking beam/head tube cap and telescoping tube when at the lowest seat to floor height.

Pinch point may occur when returning the tilted seat to the full upright position or when lowering the elevating seat. Make sure the hands and body of the occupant, attendants and bystanders are clear of all pinch points before returning the tilted seat to the full upright position or lowering the elevating seat.

Before adjusting, repairing or servicing the wheelchair, ALWAYS turn the wheelchair power Off, otherwise, injury or damage may occur.

Transport ready packages are not retrofittable to existing models and are not field serviceable.

Wheelchairs should be examined during maintenance for signs of corrosion (water exposure, incontinence, etc.). Electrical components damaged by corrosion should be replaced IMMEDIATELY.

Wheelchairs that are used by incontinent users and/or are frequently exposed to water may require replacement of electrical components more frequently.

Operation Information

Performance adjustments should only be made by professionals of the healthcare 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 wheelchair and to surrounding property.

Part No 1122170 11 Formula™ Powered Seating

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

After the wheelchair has been set-up/adjusted, check to make sure that the wheelchair performs to the specifications entered during the set-up procedure. If the wheelchair does NOT perform to specifications, turn the wheelchair Off immediately and reenter set-up specifications. Repeat this section until the wheelchair performs to specifications.

DO NOT leave the power button On when entering or exiting your wheelchair.

DO NOT operate on roads, streets or highways.

DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 9°.

DO NOT attempt to move up or down an incline with water, ice or oil film.

DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.

DO determine and establish your particular safety limits by practicing bending, reaching and transferring activities in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional before attempting active use of the wheelchair.

DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in your seat.

DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to pick them up from the floor by reaching between your knees.

DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery to reach objects behind you, as this may cause the wheelchair to tip over.

ALWAYS shift your weight in the direction you are turning. DO NOT shift your weight in the opposite direction of the turn. Shifting your weight in the opposite direction of the turn may cause the inside drive wheel to lose traction and the wheelchair to tip over.

DO NOT shift your weight or sitting position toward the direction you are reaching as the wheelchair and/or seating system (if any) may tip over.

DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily injury may occur.

DO NOT use the footplates as a platform. When getting in or out of the wheelchair, make sure that the footplates are in the upward position or swing footrests towards the outside of the wheelchair.

NEVER leave an unoccupied wheelchair unattended on an incline.

DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of the wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.

DO NOT overtighten hardware attaching to the frame. This could cause damage to the frame tubing.

ALWAYS keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts to avoid injury.

ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt ONLY. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately.

Formula™ Powered Seating 12 Part No 1122170

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

ALWAYS turn the wheelchair power Off and engage the motor locks/clutches to prevent the wheels from moving before attempting to transfer in or out of the wheelchair. Also make sure every precaution is taken to reduce the gap distance. Align both casters parallel with the object you are transferring onto.

DO NOT use with a broken or missing joystick knob.

DO NOT use if joystick does not spring back to the neutral position or becomes sticky or sluggish.

DO NOT use if joystick boot is torn or damaged.

ALWAYS check foam grips for looseness before using the wheelchair. If loose, contact a qualified technician for instructions.

ALWAYS engage both wheel locks and reduce the gap distance before transferring to and from the wheelchair. Turn all casters parallel to the object you are transferring onto.

Avoid storing or using the wheelchair near open flame or combustible products. Serious injury or damage to property may result.

Use caution when driving in a tilted, elevated or reclined position.

DO NOT operate the seating system while on an incline.

DO NOT operate the seating system while the wheelchair is moving.

NEVER operate the wheelchair or elevate/lower the seat while in any tilted/reclined/back angle position over 20° relative to the vertical position. If the drive lock-out does not stop the wheelchair from operating or the seat from elevating/lowering in a tilt position over 20° relative to vertical, DO NOT operate the wheelchair or elevate/lower the seat. DO NOT attempt to adjust the drive lock-out. Have the wheelchair serviced by a qualified technician.

Use only the controls listed in Operating Powered Seating Systems on page 24 to activate the powered seating functions*. DO NOT USE any other actuator controls. Such devices may result in excess heating and cause damage to the actuator and associated wiring and could cause a fire, death, physical injury or property damage. If such devices are used, Invacare shall not be liable and the limited warranty is void.

*NOTE: Specific actuator controls are noted for each function or combination throughout this manual.

DO NOT operate tilt seat around children.

ALWAYS keep hands and feet out from underneath tilt seat - otherwise serious injury may result.

DO NOT tip the seating system/wheelchair without assistance.

DO NOT store items under seat.

Cables must be routed and secured properly to ensure that cables DO NOT become entangled and damaged during normal operation of seating system.

Systems equipped with power legrests only - NEVER allow items to become trapped between the legrest assemblies. Otherwise, damage to the power legrest could occur.

Part No 1122170 13 Formula™ Powered Seating

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

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 for any kind of weight training. If occupant uses said wheelchair as a weight training apparatus, Invacare shall not be liable for bodily injury and the warranty is void.

Weight Limitation

Refer to Typical Product Parameters in this manual and the Typical Product Parameters in the owner’s manual shipped with the wheelchair base to determine the weight limit (total combined weight of user and any attachments) of your wheelchair model. DO NOT exceed the limit - otherwise, injury or damage may result.

Formula™ Powered Seating 14 Part No 1122170

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION

 WARNING

CAUTION: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ THIS INFORMATION REGARDING THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE ON YOUR POWERED WHEELCHAIR.

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) From Radio Wave Sources

Powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters (in this text, both will be referred to as powered wheelchairs) may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is interfering electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two way radios, and cellular phones. The interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the powered wheelchair to release its brakes, move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the powered wheelchair's control system. The intensity of the interfering EM energy can be measured in volts per metre (V/m). Each powered wheelchair can resist EMI up to a certain intensity. This is called its "immunity level." The higher the immunity level, the greater the protection. At this time, current technology is capable of achieving at least a 20 V/m immunity level, which would provide useful protection from the more common sources of radiated EMI.

There are a number of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the everyday environment. Some of these sources are obvious and easy to avoid. Others are not apparent and exposure is unavoidable. However, we believe that by following the warnings listed below, your risk to EMI will be minimized.

The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types:

1) Hand-held Portable transceivers (transmitters-receivers with the antenna mounted directly on the transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens band (CB) radios, "walkie talkie", security, fire and police transceivers, cellular telephones, and other personal communication devices).

NOTE: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals while they are ON, even when not being used.

2) Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of the vehicle; and

3) Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio and TV broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM) radios.

NOTE: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers, AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette players, and small appliances, such as electric shavers and hair dryers, so far as we know, are not likely to cause EMI problems to your powered wheelchair.

Part No 1122170 15 Formula™ Powered Seating

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION

 WARNING

Powered Wheelchair Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the transmitting antenna (source), the EM fields from hand-held radio wave sources (transceivers) are of special concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high levels of EM energy very close to the powered wheelchair's control system while using these devices. This can affect powered wheelchair movement and braking. Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible interference with the control system of the powered wheelchair.

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters. Also, the electronics used in our powered wheelchair can generate a low level of electromagnetic interference, which however will remain within the tolerances permitted by law.

FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS LISTED BELOW SHOULD REDUCE THE CHANCE OF UNINTENDED BRAKE RELEASE OR POWERED WHEELCHAIR MOVEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.

1) Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters receivers), such as citizens band (CB) radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular phones, while the powered wheelchair is turned ON;

2) Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid coming close to them;

3) If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the powered wheelchair OFF as soon as it is safe;

4) Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the powered wheelchair, may make it more susceptible to EMI (NOTE: There is no easy way to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair); and

5) Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the powered wheelchair manufacturer, and note whether there is a source of EMI nearby.

Important Information

1) 20 volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and useful immunity level against EMI (as of May 1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection);

2) This device has been tested to a radiated immunity level of 20 volts per meter.

3) The immunity level of the product is unknown.

Modification of any kind to the electronics of this wheelchair as manufactured by Invacare may adversely affect the EMI immunity levels.

Formula™ Powered Seating 16 Part No 1122170

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

NOTE: For more information about safety/handling of the wheelchair, refer to the owner’s manual that shipped with the wheelchair base.

Pinch Points

 WARNING

A pinch point exists between head tube cap and walking beam.

A pinch point exists between walking beam/head tube cap and telescoping tube when the seat is in the lowest seat to floor height.

Pinch point may occur when returning the tilted seat to the full upright position or lowering the elevated seat. Make sure the hands and body of the occupant, attendants and bystanders are clear of all pinch points before lowering seat or returning the tilted seat to the full upright position.

NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 3.1.

Telescoping Tube

Walking

Beam

Pinch Point

Headtube Cap

Front

Caster

Pinch Point

Walking Beam

Headtube Cap

(Not Shown)

Front Caster

Pinch

Points

FIGURE 3.1 Pinch Points

Part No 1122170 17 Formula™ Powered Seating

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/ TROUBLESHOOTING

NOTE: Every six months take your wheelchair to a qualified technician for a thorough inspection and servicing. Regular cleaning will reveal loose or worn parts and enhance the smooth operation of your wheelchair. To operate properly and safely, your wheelchair must be cared for just like any other vehicle. Routine maintenance will extend the life and efficiency of your wheelchair.

NOTE: Refer to wheelchair base owner’s manual for additional safety inspection and troubleshooting information.

Initial adjustments should be made to suit your personal body structure needs and preference. Thereafter follow these maintenance procedures and those in the owner’s manual shipped with the wheelchair base:

Safety Inspection Checklists

Inspect/Adjust Initially

CAUTION

As with any vehicle, the wheels and tires should be checked periodically for cracks and wear, and should be replaced.

❑ Inspect all fasteners.

❑ Inspect TRBKTS fasteners and hardware.

❑ Ensure clothing guards are secure.

❑ Arms are secure but easy to release and adjustment levers engage properly.

❑ Adjustable height arms operate and lock securely.

❑ Upholstery has no rips.

❑ Armrest pad sits flush against arm tube. ❑ Check that all labels are present and legible. Replace if necessary.

❑ Make sure all electrical connections are secure.

❑ Check that cables are routed and secured properly to ensure that cables DO NOT

become entangled and damaged during normal operation of seating system.

❑ Check limit switch position for recline.

❑ Make sure drive lock-out operates properly.

❑ Make sure tilt operates smoothly and properly.

❑ Make sure recline operates smoothly and properly.

❑ Make sure elevate operates smoothly and properly.

Formula™ Powered Seating 18 Part No 1122170

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING

❑ Make sure seating systems with the recline function have the retaining pin in place at

the top of each back cane.

❑ Make sure all systems, except Elevate Only, have the retaining pin in place at the back

of each seat rail.

❑ Make sure elevate systems drive with reduced speed when seat is in elevated position.

❑ Check that spreader bar mounting fasteners are tight.

❑ Check that back cane mounting fasteners and back mounting fasteners are tight.

Inspect/Adjust Weekly

❑ Inspect all fasteners.

❑ Inspect TRBKTS fasteners and hardware.

❑ Make sure all electrical connections are secure.

❑ Check that cables are routed and secured properly to ensure that cables DO NOT

become entangled and damaged during normal operation of seating system.

Inspect/Adjust Monthly

❑ Clean upholstery and armrests.

❑ Clean dirt and lint from axles.

❑ Clean dirt and lint from bearings.

❑ Inspect seat positioning strap for any signs of wear. Ensure buckle latches. Verify

hardware that attaches strap to frame is secure and undamaged. Replace if necessary.

❑ Make sure drive lock-out operates properly.

❑ Make sure tilt operates smoothly and properly.

❑ Make sure recline operates smoothly and properly.

❑ Make sure elevate operates smoothly and properly.

❑ Make sure elevate systems drive with reduced speed when seat is in elevated position.

❑ Check that spreader bar mounting fasteners are tight.

❑ Check that back cane mounting fasteners and back mounting fasteners are tight.

Inspect/Adjust Periodically

❑ Inspect all fasteners.

❑ Inspect TRBKTS fasteners and hardware.

❑ Ensure clothing guards are secure.

❑ Arms are secure but easy to release and adjustment levers engage properly.

❑ Adjustable height arms operate and lock securely.

Part No 1122170 19 Formula™ Powered Seating

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING

❑ Upholstery has no rips.

❑ Armrest pad sits flush against arm tube.

❑ Inspect foam handgrips for damage. If damaged, have them replaced by a qualified

technician.

❑ Check that all labels are present and legible. Replace if necessary.

❑ Inspect electrical components for signs of corrosion. Replace if corroded or damaged.

❑ Check limit switch position for recline.

❑ Make sure seating systems with the recline function have the retaining pin in place at

the top of each back cane.

❑ Make sure all systems, except Elevate Only, have the retaining pin in place at the back

of each seat rail.

❑ Check that spreader bar mounting fasteners are tight.

❑ Check that back cane mounting fasteners and back mounting fasteners are tight.

Troubleshooting

NOTE: For additional troubleshooting information and explanation of error codes, refer to the wheelchair base owner’s manual and the individual Electronics Manual supplied with each wheelchair.

SYMPTOM PROBABLE CAUSE SOLUTIONS

Wheelchair Power On but does not drive.

Seating system not functioning or working intermittently.

 SPM L Park Brake Fault or  SPM R Park Brake Fault displays

and wheelchair does not drive.

CHARGER PLUGGED IN displays. Battery charger connected

System tilted or reclined beyond drive lock-out angle (20°).

Motor lock levers are disengaged.

Low batteries.

Faulty electrical connection.

Seat has been driven under a heavy load for an extended period of time.

Motor lock levers disengaged (Error code E9 or E10).

(Error code E28).

Return to neutral position (upright and completely lowered). Refer to

Operating Powered Seating Systems on page 24.

Contact Invacare/Dealer for service if this does not solve the problem.

Engage motor lock levers. See wheelchair base owner’s manual.

Charge batteries.

Check all connections.

Allow time for the electronics to cool down (Light Duty Use).

Engage motor lock levers.

Unplug battery charger from the wheelchair.

Formula™ Powered Seating 20 Part No 1122170

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING

SYMPTOM PROBABLE CAUSE SOLUTIONS

 SPM Battery Fault displays and the

wheelchair does not drive.

 JOYSTICK TIMEOUT displays and

the wheelchair does not drive.

 JS REV TOO LARGE  JS FWD TOO LARGE  JS LFT TOO LARGE or  JS RGT TOO LARGE

displays and the wheelchair does not drive.

NEUTRAL TESTING displays. The joystick neutral test has

 BAD JOYSTICK CAL VALUES

displays and the wheelchair does not drive.

 SPM NOT CONNECTED

 SPM Communications Fault

displays and the wheelchair drives slowly.

ATTENDANT ACTIVE and displays.

Batteries draw excessive current when charging.

Batteries need to be charged (Error code E14).

Joystick or input device is disconnected (Error code 32).

The joystick or input device is sending a value outside of the reverse, forward, left or right limits (Error codes E01, E02, E03 or E04).

failed (Error code E18).

The joystick calibration values are outside of the expected range (Error code E19).

The MPJ or Display module is not communicating with the control module (Error code E200).

The controller has determined a fault during a previous turn-off process (Error code E41).

The Proportional or Digital Attendant control is active and can be used to drive the chair (Error code W05).

Battery failure.

Charge batteries. If batteries fail to charge properly, check battery charger or replace batteries. Refer to Replacing Batteries on page 63.

Turn off power, reconnect the joystick of input device and turn power on.

Replace joystick or input device.

Release the joystick and try to get the joystick back into the center-most position.

Contact Dealer/Invacare for recalibration of the joystick (joystick throw procedure).

Check the connections between the joystick or display and the controller. Turn the power off and then back on. Replace the controller if necessary.

Turn the wheelchair off and back on.

This is normal behavior.

Have batteries checked for shorted cell. Replace if necessary.

Electrical malfunction.

Battery indicator flashes the charge level is low - immediately after recharge.

Battery indicator flashes the charge level is low - too soon after being recharged.

Motor “chatters” or runs irregular. Electrical malfunction. Contact Dealer/Invacare for Service.

Part No 1122170 21 Formula™ Powered Seating

Battery failure.

Malfunctioning battery charger.

Electrical malfunction.

Batteries not charged.

Weak batteries.

Contact Dealer/Invacare for service.

Check batteries for shorted cell. Replace if necessary.

Contact Dealer/Invacare for Service.

Have charger checked.

Replace batteries if necessary. Refer to Replacing Batteries

on page 63.

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING

SYMPTOM PROBABLE CAUSE SOLUTIONS

Joystick erratic or does not respond as desired.

Damaged motor coupling.

Electrical malfunction.

Contact Dealer/Invacare for Service.

Wheelchair does not respond to commands.

Power indicator off - even after recharging.

 TILT WARNING displays and the

wheelchair will not drive.

 MAX BACK ANGLE displays.

 SPM Inhibited displays and the

wheelchair does not drive.

 SPM Slow Down is displayed and

the wheelchair drives slowly.

Controller programmed improperly.

Poor battery terminal connection.

Electrical malfunction. Contact Dealer/Invacare for Service.

The system is tilted or reclined beyond drive lock-out angle of 20° (Error code W01).

The wheelchair back has reached the maximum programmed back angle on a wheelchair with a TIAM, RIAM or TRAM (Error code W02).

The system is tilted or reclined beyond the drive lock-out angle of 20° (Error code W03).

The elevating seat is elevated (Error code W04).

Contact Dealer/Invacare to have controller reprogrammed.

Have terminals cleaned.

Return the system to upright position.

The wheelchair back will not go past the programmed maximum back angle. This is normal behavior.

Return the system to the upright position.

Return elevating seat to the lowest position to drive at full speed.

Formula™ Powered Seating 22 Part No 1122170

SECTION 5—WHEELCHAIR OPERATION

 WARNING

After ANY adjustments, repair or service and BEFORE use, make sure that all attaching hardware is tightened securely - otherwise injury or damage may result.

Set-up of the Electronic Control Unit is to be performed only by a qualified technician. The final adjustments of the controller may affect other activities of the wheelchair. Damage to the equipment could occur under these circumstances.

A Note About Drive Lock-Out

 WARNING

NEVER operate the wheelchair or elevate/lower the seat while the back is in any tilted/reclined/back angle position over 20° relative to the vertical position. If the drive lock-out does not stop the wheelchair from operating or the seat from elevating/lowering in a tilt/recline/back angle position over 20° relative to the vertical position, DO NOT operate the wheelchair or elevate/lower the seat. DO NOT attempt to adjust the drive lock-out. Have the wheelchair serviced by a qualified technician.

The wheelchair user MUST have a clear line of sight to drive safely. On initial chair delivery and after adjusting the back angle, drive lock-out switch, tilt system or recline system, tilt and recline the seat back to the farthest driving position immediately before drive lock-out engages and ensure there is a clear line of sight present in which to drive the wheelchair. If a clear line of sight is not present, have the back angle repositioned or readjust the lockout angle such that safe driving with a clear line of sight is achieved. Otherwise injury or damage may occur.

 TILT WARNING or  SPM Inhibited displays on the joystick or display unit when

the drive lock-out feature has been activated.

Drive lock-out is a feature designed to prevent the wheelchair from being driven after the seating system has been tilted or reclined beyond 20°* relative to the vertical position. The back can be positioned at a 10° relative offset to the seat base, thereby resulting in a back angle potential of 30° before which the drive lock-out is activated. This may affect the wheelchair user’s line of sight while driving. Make sure the wheelchair user can see properly to ensure safe driving.

*NOTE: 20° back angle can be any combination of recline, tilt, back angle and/or surface angle.

NOTE: Refer to Typical Product Parameters

on page 9 for tilt and recline angle ranges.

Part No 1122170 23 Formula™ Powered Seating

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