Invacare Spectra Blitz User Manual
Invacare®Spectra Blitz
TM
User guide
1
R
n
350mm
260mm
Top of padded seatboard
c/w cushion
Leg to Seat Surface Angle
ISO 7176
Pt 7
ISO 7176
180mm
130mm
270mm
320mm
90° 150°
180mm
130mm
270mm
320mm
Armrest to Seat Distance:
Top of padded seatbord
c/w cushions
Front armrest to back rest:
Cushioned back
Tension back
ISO 7176
Pt 7
Pt 7
9° 31°
25.5° 25.5°
ISO 7176
Pt 7
3° 10°
95mm
45mm
95mm
45mm
620mm 620mm
900mm 900mm
Horizontal Location of Axle:
Cushioned back
Tension back
Minimum Turning Radius
Turn Around Width Limiting
Walls
ISO 7176
Pt 7
ISO 7176
Pt 5
ISO 7176
Pt 5
6.4Km/h
35mm 50mm
21.5Km 21.5Km
1.06m 1.06m
YES
ISO 7176 PART 15
REQUIREMENT MIN MAX
Seat Angle Plane minus
ISO TEST
METHOD
ISO 7176
60°
5.5°
Pt 7
835mm 940mm
250mm
250mm
Effective Seat Depth:
25cm depth
27.5cm depth 275mm 275mm
ISO 7176
Pt 7
560mm 560mm
290mm
250mm
Effective Seat Width:
32.5cm depth 325mm 325mm
35cm depth 350mm 350mm
38cm depth 380mm 380mm
ISO 7176
25cm wide
Pt 7
780mm 780mm
30cm depth 300mm 300mm
495mm
545mm
475mm
495mm
545mm
475mm
Seat Surface Height - Front
Edge:
45cm (Top of padded seat)
35cm wide 350mm 390mm
560mm 560mm
45cm (c/w cushions)
30cm wide 300mm 340mm
60°
525mm
8.5°
370mm 440mm
525mm
Footrest to Seat Distance:
Adj angle (13cm to 21cm): Top
Backrest Height
Backrest Angle minus
43cm (Top of padded seat)
43cm (c/w cushions)
ISO 7176
Pt 7
ISO 7176
Pt 7
ISO 7176
Pt 7
79.5kg 79.5kg
910mm 910mm
220mm
270mm
300mm
140mm
190mm
210mm
of padded seatboard c/w
cushion Adj
angle (21cm to 30cm):
28° 31°
DOCUMENTATION AND LABELLING
Spectra BLITZ POWERCHAI
REQUIREMENTS FOR INFORMATION DISCLOSURE,
REQUIREMENT MIN MAX
Overall Width
Overall Length with Legrest
ISO TEST
METHOD
MODEL DESIGNATION:
ISO 7176 Pt
ISO 7176 Pt
5
Static Stability Uphill
ISO 7176 Pt
ISO 7176 Pt
1
Static Stability Sideways
Dynamic Stability Uphill
1
ISO 7176 Pt
1
ISO 7176 Pt
Energy Consumption Range
Maximum Speed Forward
Obstacle Climbing
2
ISO 7176 Pt
4
ISO 7176 Pt
6
ISO 7176 Pt
Minimum Braking Distance
Max. User Weight 75Kg
10
ISO 7176 Pt
3
The Wheelchair conforms to the following standards :
ISO 7176 Pt 8 Static, Impact and Fatigue Strength YES
ISO 7176 Pt 9 Climatic Tests YES
ISO 7176 Pt 14 Power and Controls YES
ISO 7176 Pt 16 Resistance to Ignitio
Total Weight
Static Stability Downhill
Folded Width
Folded Length
5
ISO 7176 Pt
5
Folded Height
ISO 7176 Pt
ISO 7176 Pt
5
ISO 7176 Pt
5
5
2
Warranty terms & conditions
Standard INVACARE Terms
This is to certify that your Spectra BlitzTM Powerchair is warranted by INVACARE Ltd., for a period of
2 years.
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 users 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.
3
Limitation of liability
This Warranty does not extend to the consequential costs resulting 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
4
Contacting Invacare
For questions or support, please contact your authorised INVACARE Dealer. He has the necessary
know-how and equipment, plus the special knowledge concerning your wheelchair which enables him to
offer you an all-round satisfactory service.
Should you wish to contact us directly, we are at your service under the following addresses and
telephone numbers.
United Kingdom
INVACARE Ltd.
South Road · Bridgend Industrial Estate · Bridgend · Mid Glamorgan · CF31-3PY
Tel (Customer Service): 01656 - 647 372 Fax (Customer Service): 01656 - 649 016
France
INVACARE Poirier SAS
Route de St Roch (RD 36) F-37230 Fondettes
Tel (Service Après-Vente): 02 47 - 62 64 15 Fax (Service Après-Vente): 02 47 - 62 64 64
Germany
INVACARE Deutschland GmbH
Kleiststraße 49 · D-32457 Porta Westfalica
Tel (Kundendienst): 05731 - 754 210 Fax (Kundendienst): 05731 - 754 216
5
The Netherlands
INVACARE NEDERLAND
Celsiusstraat 46 · NL-6716 BZ Ede
Tel : +31 - (0) 318 - 550 056 Fax: +31 - (0) 318 - 555 054
Sverge & Suomi
INVACARE AB
Fagerstagatan 9 · P.O. Box 66 · S-163 91 Spånga
Tel (Kundjänst): 0583 -140 85 Fax (Kundjänst): 0583 -124 05
Spain
INVACARE S.A.
c/Areny, s/n, Poligon Industrial de celrà · 17460 Celrà (girona) - España
Tel. 0972 - 49 32 00 Fax: 0972 - 49 32 20
Italy
INVACARE Mecc San S.R.L.
Via Dei Pini, 62 I - 36016 Thiene (VI) - Italia
Tel: 0445 - 380059 Fax: 0445 - 380034
Portugal
INVACARE PORTUGAL Lda
Rua Senhora de Campanhâ, 105 4369-001 Porto - Portugal
Tel. 02 - 510 57 39 Fax: 02 - 510 50 20
6
Contents
ISO 7176-15: 1996 Requirements for Information Disclosure,
Documentation and Labelling ......................................................................... 2
Warranty terms & conditions ........................................................................... 3
Standard INVACARE Terms ......................................................................................................... 3
Limitation of liability ..................................................................................................................... 4
How can you get in touch with Invacare?....................................................... 5
1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 11
1.1 Important symbols in this manual .....................................................................................12
1.2 Type Classification and Area of Use ................................................................................. 13
2 Safety Notes.................................................................................................... 14
2.1 Repair or Service Information ........................................................................................... 15
2.2 General Safety notes ........................................................................................................15
2.3 Safety Information on Electromagnetic Interference ......................................................... 18
2.4 Safety Precautions/Safe Operation ...................................................................................19
3 Some Useful Tips ............................................................................................ 23
4 Safety Inspection Checklist ........................................................................... 28
4.1 Troubleshooting - Mechanical........................................................................................... 31
4.2 Troubleshooting - Electrical ...............................................................................................32
4.3 Checking Battery Charge Level .........................................................................................34
4.4 Care and Maintenance ...................................................................................................... 35
4.5 Product End of Life ...........................................................................................................35
5 Legrest Maintenance ...................................................................................... 36
7
5.1 Installing/Removing Legrests ............................................................................................36
5.2 Legrest height adjustment .................................................................................................37
5.3 Adjusting Angle Adjustable Flip-up Footplates ..................................................................38
5.4 Adjusting/Replacing Footplate Heel Straps ....................................................................... 39
6 Armrests.......................................................................................................... 40
6.1 Installing/Removing Armrests ........................................................................................... 40
6.2 Adjusting Armrests ...........................................................................................................42
7 Backrests ........................................................................................................ 44
7.1 Adjusting Backrest Angle .................................................................................................44
7.2 Adjusting Backboard Position ...........................................................................................45
7.3 Adjusting Backpost Support Bracket ................................................................................46
7.4 Installing / Removing or Adjusting Headrest (if fitted) ........................................................47
7.5 IInstalling / Removing or adjusting Trunk Supports (if fitted) ..............................................49
7.6 Adjusting Tension Adjustable Back Upholstery (if fitted) ....................................................51
7.7 Installing / Removing Back Cushion .................................................................................52
7.8 Adjusting Push Handles ....................................................................................................53
8 Seating ............................................................................................................ 54
8.1 Installing/Removing Seat Cushion ....................................................................................54
8.2 Lapbelt..............................................................................................................................55
8.3 Adjusting Seat Width ........................................................................................................55
8.4 Adjusting Seat Depth ........................................................................................................56
8.5 Installing/Removing Seat Board ........................................................................................58
8.6 Adjusting Seat Angle ........................................................................................................58
9 Anti Tipping Castors ....................................................................................... 60
8
10 Batteries .......................................................................................................... 61
10.1 Removing/Installing batteries ............................................................................................61
10.2 Batteries and Battery Charging .........................................................................................66
10.3 Disposing and Recycling of Used Batteries ...................................................................... 69
11 Motor locks, Wheels and Brakes ................................................................... 70
11.1 Disengaging/Engaging Motor Lock Levers ........................................................................ 70
11.2 Adjusting front Castors .....................................................................................................71
11.3 Drive Wheels .................................................................................................................... 72
11.4 Manual Parking Brakes .....................................................................................................73
12 Controls and operating your powerchair ..................................................... 74
12.1 Types of User Controller .................................................................................................... 74
12.2 Shark Operation................................................................................................................75
12.3 Shark Controller Functions................................................................................................ 76
12.4 REM24SD Operation ........................................................................................................ 78
12.5 Pilot + Operation...............................................................................................................79
12.6 Pilot + Controller Functions .............................................................................................. 80
12.7 VSI Operation ...................................................................................................................82
12.8 VSI Controller Functions................................................................................................... 83
12.9 Driving practice.................................................................................................................86
12.10 Types of Attendant Controller ............................................................................................86
12.11 ACS Dual Controller Operation ..........................................................................................87
12.12 Pilot + Dual Control Operation .......................................................................................... 88
12.13 Pilot + Attendant Control .................................................................................................. 89
12.14 Pilot + Attendant Controller Functions ..............................................................................90
12.15 User Joystick Mounting Hardware .....................................................................................92
9
13 Transportation ................................................................................................ 94
14 Technical Specifications ................................................................................ 97
15 Label locations ............................................................................................... 99
10
1 Introduction
Dear User,
First of all we wish to thank you for your confidence in our products. We hope you will enjoy your new
Powerchair.
This manual contains important hints and information on:
• Safety,
• Operation,
• Care and maintenance.
Please familiarise yourself thoroughly before making your first trip.
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.
11
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.
NOTE:
Not all of the components within this manual will necessarily be available with your Spectra Blitz
TM
power wheelchair. Any references not applicable to your product should be ignored.
Intended Use
The Spectra Blitz
75kg who may have impaired personal mobility.
The purpose of the Spectra Blitz Powerchair is to provide personal mobility and seated comfort /
positioning to the user.
It is important that the user of this product understands the safety advice given within this user
guide. Failure to follow the recommended advice within this user guide could lead to personal injury.
The Powerchair can be operated by either a seated user or carer / attendant and is suitable for both
indoor and outdoor use in accordance with the instructions given within this user guide.
When prescribing wheelchairs for use by full or partial amputees (above or below knee, single or
double) or other condition which affects the users natural centre of gravity. It is imperitive 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 minimalised.
TM
Powerchair is intended for use by children or small adults weighing less than
12
1.1 Important symbols in this manual
WARNING: THIS SYMBOL WARNS YOU OF DANGER!
•
Follow the instructions to avoid injury to the user or damage to the product!
NOTE:
This symbol indicates hints and suggestions which should help make operating the product easier
and point out special functions.
Requirements:
• This symbol indicates a list of the different tools and other requirements you will need to do
certain maintenance work.
13
1.2 Type Classification and Area of Use
The Spectra Blitz
• The 6kmph (4mph) model is a Class 2 / B vehicle.
WARNING:
•
Under no circumstances must the top speed of the Class 2 / B Spectra BlitzTM be increased, to
TM
is available with only one maximum speed option.
do so will infringe Road Traffic Act Regulations.
14
2.1 Repair or Service Information
Setup of the Electronic Control Unit is to be performed ONLY by individuals certified by Invacare.
The final tuning adjustments of the controller may affect other activities of the wheelchair. Damage to
the equipment could occur under these circumstances. If non-certified individuals perform any work
on these units, the warranty is void.
Refer to the Spectra BlitzTM maintenance manual for detailed service and repair information
2.2 General Safety Notes
GENERAL WARNINGS
•
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 chair and to surrounding property.
•
After the wheelchair has been setup, check to make sure that the wheelchair performs to the
specifications entered during the setup procedure. If the wheelchair 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 climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 6 o.
•
The recommended safe slope is 6 o See page 21 - recommended driving position .
•
DO NOT attempt to move up or down an incline with a water, ice or oil film.
•
DO NOT attempt to drive over kerbs or obstacles greater than 50mm in height. Doing so may
cause your wheelchair to turn over and cause bodily harm or damage to the chair.
15
•
Always stop before climbing an obstacle. Approach slowly until castors contact the obstacle.
Apply power and drive over the obstacle in a controlled manner.
•
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 side 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. Invacare strongly recommends their use as the power source for
this unit.
•
Carefully read battery/battery charger information prior to installing, servicing or operating your
wheelchair.
ELECTRICAL
•
Extreme care should be exercised when using oxygen in close proximity to electrical circuits.
Contact your oxygen supplier for instructions in the safe use of oxygen.
16
RAIN TEST
•
INVACARE has tested it’s power wheelchairs in accordance with ISO 7176 Part 9 “Rain 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.
•
Check to ensure that the battery covers are secured in place.
•
DO NOT use the joystick if the boot is torn or cracked. If the joystick boot becomes torn or
cracked, replace IMMEDIATELY.
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
•
The Spectra BlitzTM has a maximum user weight limitation of 75kg (165 lb).
17
2.3 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 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 near 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!
18
2.4 Safety Precautions/Safe Operation
IMPORTANT WARNING
•
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 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.
CAUTION
•
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 the 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 dependent 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 gear boxes should remain engaged at all other
times.
•
To avoid the powerchair free-wheeling, special care must be taken to engage motor brakes.
19
SAFETY INDOORS
•
When using your powerchair indoors always consider the following potential hazards:
• 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 easily evacuated in the event of an emergency.
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 EVERYDAY OBSTACLES
•
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.
•
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means of
any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in injury to the user or damage to
the wheelchair.
•
Also, be aware of detachable parts such as armrests or legrests. These must NEVER be used
for hand-hold or lifting supports, as they may be inadvertently released, resulting in possible
injury to the user and/or assistant(s).
•
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before
attempting it alone.
20
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.
AMPUTEE STATEMENT FOR PRESCRIBERS
•
When prescribing wheelchairs for use by full or partial amputees (above or below knee, single or
double) it is important to recognize that lower limb amputation will affect the sitting centre of
balance of the wheelchair. The impossibility of generalizing 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
minimized.
RECOMMENDED DRIVING POSITION
•
INVACARE recommends that when driving your Spectra Blitz during normal operating conditions
the following seat and back angles are maintained:
• Seat Angle: - approximately 4°
• Back Angle: - approximately 7°
•
Failure to observe the above precautions whilst driving may lead to instability, damage to the
chair, user or those around you.
21
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 and environment.
22
3 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 manoeuvring your
powerchair.
Ensure power is switched off before entering 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 travelling 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 it’s
limitations. Due to both the weight of a powered wheelchair and it’s occupant it
is not advisable to attempt to be assisted up and down stairs whilst seated.
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
23
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.
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.
24
TRANSFERRING TO AND FROM OTHER SEATS
•
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 by turning both rear castors away
from the object you are transferring onto.
•
When transferring, position yourself as far back as possible in the seat. This will prevent broken
screws, damaged upholstery and the possibility of the
wheelchair tipping forward.
•
Note: This activity may be performed independently provided
you have adequate mobility and upper body strength.
•
Position the wheelchair as close as possible along side the
seat to which you are transferring, with the rear wheels
pointing away from it.
•
Engage motor locks/clutches.
•
Shift body weight into seat with transfer.
•
During independent transfer, little or no seat platform will be
beneath you. Use transfer board if at all possible.
25
NEGOTIATING GRADIENTS/SLOPES
•
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 manoeuvre, 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.
NEGOTIATING KERBS
•
When approaching kerbs wherever possible mount
and dismount pavements via ramps. Always
approach the kerb head on, not at an angle.
•
When approaching a kerb stop approximately 5cm
from the kerb edge, then push the joystick firmly
forward and continue to climb over the obstacle in
one movement. DO NOT pause or attempt to steer
during this movement.
•
NOTE: Take care when mounting or dismounting a
kerb as it may be possible to lose drive if the antitipping castors contact the ground
33
3
33
2
Direction of Travel
26
YOU, YOUR POWERCHAIR AND OTHERS
•
Powerchairs are strictly forbidden on motorways and their use is strongly discouraged on highways with fast moving traffic.
•
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 passer-by. 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.
27
4 Safety Inspection Checklist
Initial adjustments should be made to suit personal body structure/user capability and preference.
Thereafter follow these maintenance procedures:
inspect/ inspect/ inspect/
Item Initially adjust adjust adjust
weekly monthly periodically
General
Wheelchair rolls straight
(no excessive drag or pull to one side). X X
Motor brushes & motor gearbox coupling X
Clothing guards
Ensure all fasteners are secure. X X
Arms
Secure but easy to release;
adjustment handwheels engage properly. X X
Adjustable height arms operate
and lock securely. X X
Armrests
Inspect for rips in upholstery. X X
Arm rest pad sits flush against arm tube. X X
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inspect/ inspect/ inspect/
Item Initially adjust adjust adjust
weekly monthly periodically
Seat and back upholstery
Inspect for rips or sagging. X X
Drive wheels
Axle nut and wheel mounting nuts are secure. X X X
No excessive side movement or binding when
lifted and spun when disengaged
(free-wheeling). X
Castors
Inspect wheel/fork assembly for proper tension
by spinning castor; castor should come to a
gradual stop. X X
Loosen/tighten locknut if wheel wobbles
noticeably or binds to a stop. X X
CAUTION: As with any vehicle, the wheels and
tyres should be checked periodically
for cracks and wear, and should be replaced.
Castor/wheel/fork/head tube
Ensure all fasteners are secure. X X
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inspect/ inspect/ inspect/
Item Initially adjust adjust adjust
weekly monthly periodically
Tyres
Inspect for flat spots and wear. X X
If pneumatic tyres check for proper inflation. X X
CAUTION: As with any vehicle, the wheels
and tyres should be checked periodically for
cracks and wear, and should be replaced.
CLEANING
Clean upholstery and armrests. X X
NOTE:
Every six (6) months take your wheelchair to a qualified dealer 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.
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