Van Os EXCEL User Manual

Read instructions before use

User Manual

Excel

G6 ‘High Active’

~ 1 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

YOU AND / OR YOUR ATTENDANT MUST READ AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL BEFORE USE

General information

You have just purchased a Van Os Medical UK Ltd wheelchair and we want to thank you for the confidence in our
EXCEL® products. The EXCEL® wheelchair is a quality product. It is adjustable in many different ways and it can
also be easily upgraded.

The policy of Van Os Medical UK Ltd is to continually improve the quality and reliability of our products. We reserve
the right, therefore, without prior notification, to alter this guide.

It is important that your guide for the use of the wheelchair is read carefully. The manual contains important
information about the safe use and maintenance of your wheelchair. We recommend that you keep this guide, it's
also your proof of warranty and you will find it useful for referring to at a later date.

The safety instructions in this guide are general guidelines that must be seen as broad guidelines. It is possible that
you develop your own ways for many common actions. However, we advise you to consult a professional for
assistance in developing safe and effective techniques with regards to your daily activities and your physical
capabilities.

Your new wheelchair requires frequent maintenance, much of which you can do yourself. We want you to take your
wheelchair once a year to be inspected by a professional. You will find a maintenance schedule later in this
manual.

You'll also find that this manual includes a detailed description of all the available settings of your wheelchair.
Many of these options require, as well as repairs to your wheelchair, the knowledge of a professional. We therefore
advise you to consult a professional if your wheelchair requires repairs or a modification.

Caution!

In this guide you will find informative comments, recommendations and warnings. These are clearly identified by
the below symbols and the appearance of the text: -

 Tip Informative information

 Recommendation Damage to equipment is possible if recommendations are not followed

 Warning To avoid personal injury, warnings must be followed

Fill out the information on your authorized dealer below

:

Company: …………………………………………………………………

Address: …………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………

Telephone number: …………………………………………………………………

Fax number: …………………………………………………………………

Email adress: …………………………………………………………………

Website: …………………………………………………………………

~ 2 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

Contents

1. IDENTIFICATION .................................................................................................................................................................. 3

2. GENERAL EXPLANATION CONCERNING YOUR WHEELCHAIR ................................................................................................ 4

2.1 C

OMPONENTS OF THE WHEELCHAIR

....................................................................................................................................................4

2.2 G

ENERAL EXPLANATION OF THE FUNCTION AND POSSIBILITIES OF YOUR WHEELCHAIR

....................................................................................4

3. SAFETY REGULATIONS ......................................................................................................................................................... 5

3.1 G

ENERAL SAFETY REGULATIONS

.........................................................................................................................................................5

3.2 W

ARNINGS FOR SAFE USE

.................................................................................................................................................................5

4 INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE ...................................................................................................................................................... 7

4.1 S

AFETY TIPS

...................................................................................................................................................................................7

4.2 N

EGOTIATING PAVEMENTS AND UNEQUAL SURFACES

.............................................................................................................................8

4.3 G

OING UP AND DOWN RAMPS

...........................................................................................................................................................9

4.4 G

OING UP AND DOWN STAIRS

..........................................................................................................................................................11

5 INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND MOUNTING OPTIONS ......................................................................................................... 12

5.1 T

OOLS AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION

...............................................................................................................................................12

5.2 O

PENING AND CLOSING THE WHEELCHAIR

..........................................................................................................................................12

5.3 U

SE OF THE FOOTPLATE AND FOOTREST

.............................................................................................................................................13

5.4 U

SING THE WHEELCHAIR BRAKE

.......................................................................................................................................................14

5.5 U

SING THE ARMREST

.....................................................................................................................................................................14

5.6 U

SING PUSH HANDLES

....................................................................................................................................................................15

5.7 P

OTENTIAL USES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE BACK OF THE WHEELCHAIR

.......................................................................................................15

5.8 U

SING THE REAR WHEELS (TIRE TABLE) AND ANTI-TIP WHEELS

................................................................................................................16

5.9 U

SING ACCESSORIES AND OTHER OPTIONS ON YOUR WHEELCHAIR

...........................................................................................................17

6. TRANSPORT AND TRANSIT IN CAR ..................................................................................................................................... 19

6.1 DE-

ASSEMBLY

..............................................................................................................................................................................19

6.2 A

SSEMBLY

...................................................................................................................................................................................19

7. MAINTAINENCE ................................................................................................................................................................. 19

7.1 T

YRES

.........................................................................................................................................................................................19

7.2 B

RAKES

.......................................................................................................................................................................................20

7.3 C

ROSS BRACE

...............................................................................................................................................................................20

7.4 R

EAR WHEEL

................................................................................................................................................................................20

7.5 F

RONT CASTOR AND FRONT CASTOR FORK

..........................................................................................................................................20

7.6 U

PHOLSTERY

................................................................................................................................................................................20

7.7 C

LEANING

....................................................................................................................................................................................21

8. PROBLEM ANALYSIS AND SOLUTIONS ............................................................................................................................... 21

9. WARRANTY ....................................................................................................................................................................... 22

9.1 W

ARRANTY APPLICATION

................................................................................................................................................................22

9.2 W

ARRANTY DEFINITION

..................................................................................................................................................................22

10. SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................................................................ 23

10.1 G

ENERAL MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

..........................................................................................................................................23

10.2 S

ERVICE CHECKLIST

......................................................................................................................................................................24

~ 3 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

6

7

1. IDENTIFICATION

Your wheelchair is equipped with a unique identification number. You can find this number on the cross frame of
your wheelchair. Below is an example of the frame label on which you can find the identification number.
Furthermore you will find the explanation of the various data stored on the frame label listed below.

1. Production date The date on which your wheelchair was manufactured.

2. Serial number Every wheelchair has its own unique identification number. YOU must have this

number when making technical requests or if warranty parts are required.

3. Maximum user weight The largest occupant weight allowed for protection of both the wheelchair and the

user.

4. Type number This number indicates which model of wheelchair you have, again this is always

required when making technical calls.

5. Model name The model name of your wheelchair starts with the brand name Excel. The brand

name Excel is followed by an additional model description that forms the model
name of your wheelchair.

6. Usage application Where you can use your wheelchair.

7. Warranty Here the guarantee period of your wheelchair is reflected. Chapter 9 describes your

warranty terms and conditions in more detail.

1

2 3

4

5

~ 4 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

17

2. GENERAL EXPLANATION CONCERNING YOUR WHEELCHAIR

2.1 Components of the wheelchair

1 Back coating

10

Ball head

2 Push handle

11

Front fork

3 Backrest

12

Front wheel (swing castor)

4 Hand

rim 13 Foot plate

5 Rear wheel

14

Foot rest

6 Parking brake

15

Seat

7 Axle bracket

16

Armrest

8 Anti-tip wheels

17 Tension bar

9 Frame

18 T

ension strap

s back

Your wheelchair is equipped with a number of elements and parts. You should know these before continue reading
this manual. Your wheelchair can be equipped with options and accessories not pictured. You will see this yourself
whilst reading this manual. Designs and specifications may change without prior notice.

2.2 General explanation of the function and possibilities of your wheelchair

Your wheelchair is a foldable one, which is designed to be easy to transport in a car. Mainly, we divide the
wheelchairs into two categories: self propel version with large rear wheels, and the transit version with small rear
wheels. You can look at the rear wheel to see which type of wheelchair you have. If you wheelchair has big 24”
rear wheels and you can move it yourself it is a self propel version. If you wheelchair has small 12” rear wheels and
you need a supervisor to push the wheelchair it is a transit version.
Your wheelchair is a product falling into the medical equipment and is not a standard consumer product. You must
follow this manual completely to ensure good, optimal and safe use of your wheelchair.

18

9

10

13

16

14

3

1

2

5

6

11

12

15

8

4

7

~ 5 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

3. SAFETY REGULATIONS

VAN OS MEDICAL UK Ltd specifically disclaims responsibility for any body injury or property damage which may
occur during any use which does not comply with laws or ordinances. If used correctly, the Excel wheelchair is an
utmost safe and stable product, if the instructions for use as described in this manual are followed. However, it is
possible when the Excel wheelchair is not used correctly, dangerous situations may occur.

3.1 General safety regulations

Protect your Excel wheelchair by checking it regularly. When a part of your Excel wheelchair is not functioning
properly, a dangerous situating could occur. YOU MUST KEEP YOUR WHEELCHAIR IN A GOOD CONDITION TO
ENSURE SAFETY IN USE.
Periodical inspection, correct adjustment of your wheelchair and timely replacement of damaged and worn parts
will result in use for years without any problems. A qualified Van Os Medical UK Ltd dealer, who will use only Van
Os Medical UK Ltd replacement parts, will take care of your wheelchair to ensure a long lifetime.



Warning:

YOU must your keep wheelchair in a good state to be able guarantee use and ambulatory the security
in.

3.2 Warnings for safe use



Warnings:

-

do not use your wheelchair on streets or roads, only on the pavements;

- do not use your wheelchair in sand, rough area, wet and glade surfaces or surfaces with little grip;

- the transport of your wheelchair is in all vehicles, including vehicles which are adapted developed

especially and/or for the transport of your wheelchair, is at your own risk. We accept absolutely no
liability for this. We recommend you, if you want nevertheless to transport your wheelchair, to contact
a recognised manufacturer of taxi fixations to take with the carrier, your supplier and/or systems to
choose an appropriate system for your wheelchair and situation;

- do not try to ascend ramps without installed anti tippers, never ascend a hill without anti tippers;

- do not lean concerning the back of the wheelchair. This can result in rolling over the wheelchair;

- before leaning or reaching forward, sit back into the chair and face the castors forward:

1 2

~ 6 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

- A ‘wheelie’ is extremely dangerous to the user and will cause serious damage to the wheelchair

- Never connect anything to the wheels, this may cause damage to the chair and also effect the balance of

the chair and may injure the user;

- Do not stand on the footrest this will cause the chair to tip and injure the user
(figure 4);

- For suitable protection of potential obstruction the lowest point of the footrests serves minimum 7 cm
free of the ground;

- Place the wheelchair on a stable, flat surface and attach the brakes before you get off or.

- Attach the brakes when you use the wheelchair in a lift or on a wheelchair lift and when you want to get

off;

- The standard weight capacity has been indicated on your frame label;

- Unauthorized modification and or use of no Van Os Medical parts will void the warranty of this chair and

may lead to injury to the user and damage to the chair.

5

3

4

~ 7 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

4 INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

You will have to learn the characteristics of your wheelchair. It is most important to learn the safest methods to
develop the daily activities in accordance to your life style. Consult your medical advisor or therapist for assistance
by developing safe and effective techniques for your daily activities and your physical possibilities.

4.1 Safety Tips

Daily operations such as getting off the wheelchair, reaching and bending in wheelchair will cause change the
weight distribution and the centre of gravity of you and your wheelchair. You will need to perform these
movements and techniques as shown below.

Transferring

Transferring in a wheelchair is a difficult manoeuvre. Consult your physical therapist for assistance in developing
your individual technique. The possibilities you have for making a transfer are depending on your physical
characteristics. We advise to discuss this first with your physical therapist.

However if you have sufficient body strength and you want to transfer to and from the wheelchair can you best do
this in the following manner:

To get out of the wheelchair:

First of all you must make sure that your wheelchair stand as closely as possible to the place of where you want sit.
Put the castors forward and attach the brakes. Swing away the footplates and place your feet on the ground. You
are now in position to carry out the operation. Shift your weight to the front of the chair, you can use the armrests
as a support and move yourself to the place where you want sit. If necessary you can use a transfer board.

To get in:

To get in your wheelchair you need to do the same things as when you want to get out of the wheelchair, only in
reversed order.

Reaching / bending forward

1. Make sure that you are as close as possible to the object;

2. Make sure the front wheels are turned forward. If not, go forwards and then backwards to turn the wheels fully
to the front;

3. Engage the wheel brakes;

4. You can now move towards the target with caution to keep the wheelchair from falling.

6

~ 8 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

Reaching / bending sideward

1. Manoeuvre the chair as closely as possible to the object you want to reach. You can use your rear wheels;

2. Make sure the front wheels are fully turned to the front. If not, go forwards and then backwards to turn the

wheels fully to the front;

3. You can now pick up the object. While you pick up the object you need to make sure you keep it as close as

possible to the wheelchair (picture 7 and picture 8).

Reaching / bending backward

1. Manoeuvre the chair as closely as possible to the object. You can use the rear wheels. For example they will

indicate how close you can come to object;

2. Do not engage the wheel locks. If your weight moves while reaching, it is better to drive in that direction than

tipping the wheelchair.

3. Do not reach further than your arm can reach. If you are in doubt, you reposition the chair (picture 9);

4.2 Negotiating pavements and unequal surfaces

Going up the pavement:

If you ascend a pavement, we advise to do this together with an attendant. The attendant can help you in two
different ways, however we advise you to do it the first way.

- You and the attendant reach to pavement facing forward. The attendant must pull the push handles towards

him and place his foot on the stepper on the rear side of the wheelchair. Because of this there is a lever effect
that tips the wheelchair (see picture 10).

10

7 8

9

~ 9 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

- The attendant is already standing on the pavement and makes sure that the wheelchair stands with the rear
wheels as closely to the pavement as possible. The user of the wheelchair needs to lean backwards. This way
the wheelchair will tip backwards and the attendant can pull the chair on the pavement. The attendant needs
to make sure that the front wheels are on the pavement before he lets the wheelchair down.

If you want to go up a pavement alone, you should move your weight as far forward as possible by bending forward.
Then you must provide a so-called 'Wheelie', to get the front wheels on to the pavement (see figure 3, under the
heading “Warnings for safe use”). You can only perform this action if you have practiced it with a trained expert.

Going down the pavement:

If you want to go down the pavement, we advise you to do this with an attendant. The attendant should move the
wheelchair forward to the curb. Then the user should lean back so the attendant can tilt the wheelchair to find a
balance point. When the wheelchair is balanced the attendant can move the wheelchair slowly off the curb. When
the wheelchair is off the pavement, the attendant can let the front wheels back onto the ground.

If you want to independently go off the pavement, you should do this in reverse (Figure 11 shows what not to do).
You can do this only if you've practiced with a trained expert.

4.3 Going up and down ramps

Most people can climb short slopes by themselves. This of course depends on your body strength, stamina and the
gradation of the slope. Inspect the slope always for risks, such as holes or slippery and uneven surfaces before you
drive off. If you can not see the slope, ask someone to inspect it for you.



Warning:

A slope of more than 5 degrees can be dangerous to descending or climbing. Remember that the
friction of your hands to grab the hand rim is the only way to brake while driving.

Most people develop their own methods to drive up slopes through practice. Sit with your upper body slightly
forward as you climb the slope. Should it be necessary to stop on the slope, you must try to avoid unexpected
movements which may cause tilting when climb further (Figure 12).

If you want to climb a relatively steep slope, we advise you to use the assistance of a supervisor, figure 13.

11

12

13

~ 10 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

 We recommend you to use anti-tip wheels. They prevent you from tipping the wheelchair over backwards
(figure 12). Depending on the model of your Excel wheelchair sometimes these are a standard item and
sometimes they are an optional extra.

 Do not carry any weight on the back of the wheelchair whilst ascending (figure 13). This changes the
balance and increases the chances of tipping backwards.

Make sure the footrest is minimum 7 cm from the ground when you are descending a slope. This is in order to
ensure your safety at the end of the slope. Always look forward when you descend and do not lean forward as this
can cause overturning. Lean slightly backward in order to increase stability.

Make sure you have your wheelchair under control at all times. Do not hurry down the slope, but move slowly and
safely. The speed of descent is controlled by the amount of grip strength that you exercise on the hand rims. In an
effort to prevent friction burns to your hands, it is recommended that you use gloves. To reduce the risk that you
burn your hands or lose control over the wheelchair, you need to slowly descend a slope.

Do not use the wheel brakes during the descent. The wheel brakes are designed for static braking of the rear
wheels whilst stationary.

Avoid changing direction as you descend. Despite that your EXCEL® wheelchair is designed for balance and control,
a change of direction on the slope can change the balance which will cause instability.

If you are using an attendant they should be aware that even with a slight slope already considerable traction
should be exercised (figure 15).



Warning:

Using the wheel brakes to slow down the wheelchair whilst driving can cause a sudden stoppage. The
result of this can be that the chair rotates to one side and tilts, or abrupt stops so that the seat tilts
forward.

 If your wheelchair is used in an environment where there are many slopes, it is advisable to fit a drum

braking system for the attendant to use.

14

15

~ 11 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

4.4 Going up and down stairs

Stairs are one of the largest obstacles for wheelchair users. However, with a little help from others it is possible to
climb up and down the stairs when a wheelchair elevator is not available. Only you and your attendants must be
aware of the rather heavy weight to be replaced.

Going up the stairs
You need to go up the stairs backwards. We advise if you want to climb the stairs with a wheelchair you will do this
with the help of a minimum of two attendants. One attendant on the front of the wheelchair and one attendant on
the back of wheelchair. The attendant at the back of the wheelchair grabs the push handles and let the wheelchair
tip backwards until it in balance. When the wheel is in balance the attendant at the front of the wheelchair needs
to grab the side frames. You are now in position to climb the stairs. The attendant on the front pushes the side
frames up until they are above the first step and the attendant on the back makes the first step on the stairs.
Repeat this technique until the last step of the stair, see figure 17. You can let the front castors down when the
attendant on the front has taken the last step.

7

Going down stairs
To go down the stairs you need to do the same things as when you where going down the stairs, only in reversed
order and you needs to go down the stairs forwards.



Warning:

Never lift a wheelchair by the push handles, armrests or footrests (picture 16). Always hold a part of
the main frame.

16 17

~ 12 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

MAKING ADJUSTMENTS TO YOUR WHEELCHAIR CAN CAUSE BIG RISKS FOR YOUR SAFETY AND THE FUNCTION OF

YOUR WHEELCHAIR. ADJUSTMENTS MADE BY YOURSELF ARE STRONGLY ADVISED AGAINST AND CARRIED OUT AT

YOUR OWN RISK. ALWAYS SEEK ADVICE FROM AN APPROVED DEALER BEFORE MAKING ADJUSTMENTS.

5 INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND MOUNTING OPTIONS

In this chapter we will explore all the possibilities that you have with your wheelchair. All setting and user
instructions, such as the removal of the footrest, will be discussed.

Your wheelchair is an Excel® G6 ‘High Active’

The wheelchair is available in self propel and transit versions, see section 2.2 for further explanation on this. On
the cross-frame of your wheelchair you will find a label on which you can find which wheelchair you own. Further
on in this chapter we can refer to a specific version.



Warning:

We advise you, if you want to make changes where tools are needed, to consult with your dealer.

5.1 Tools and technical information

For the maintenance of your wheelchair you will, in some cases, need tools. For your wheelchair you will need the
following tools:

Phillips screwdriver PH2
Allen keys 4, 5 and 6 mm
Cross-ring or keys 8, 10, 13 and 26 mm
Spanners 19 and 22 mm
Socket wrench 19 mm

Excel® G6 ‘High Active’

Seat width 40, 42½, 45 and 50 cm
Seat depth 42, 44½ and 47 cm
Seat height 46*, 48*, 50*, 52 and 54 cm

*only available with standard front fork

Backrest height 36½, 39 and 41½ cm (adjustable)
Total width 18 cm + seat width
Total length > 88 cm
Total height > 86 cm
Folded width 33 cm
Armrest height 19 – 26 cm, height adjustable
Weight (complete) 12.9 kg (transit version: 13.5 kg)
Transport weight 7.6 kg
Maximum user weight 130 kg

5.2 Opening and closing the wheelchair

Opening the wheelchair (Compact)

- Get a hold of both sides of the wheelchair and pull them apart, see figure 1;

- Go to the front of the wheelchair. Pull the black loop which you will find on the cross-frame until you hear a

click that confirms that it is in place, see figure 2;

- Go to the back of the wheelchair, get the push handles and straighten the back until you hear a click that
confirms it is in place;

- Place the strips back on the backrest, see figure 3;

- If you have removed them, place the foot or leg rest back onto the wheelchair, see chapter 5.3. You can now

use the wheelchair

~ 13 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

Folding the wheelchair (Compact)

- Put the brakes on the wheelchair;

- Fold away the foot plates and remove the foot or leg rest, see chapter 5.3;

- Remove the strips back by releasing the Velcro, see figure 3;

- Go to the back of the wheelchair. Pull with 1 hand the loop up and slap with you other hand the backrest to the

front, see figure 4;

- Go to the front of the wheelchair and push against the black tubes of the cross-frame, see figure 5;

- Now get the two sides of the wheelchair and push them together, see figure 1;

- The wheelchair is now completly folded.

5.3 Use of the footplate and footrest

Adjusting the heel straps

- You can adjust the heel straps, which you will find on the footplate, with the Velcro;

- Check if the Velcro of the heel straps is tighten properly.

Folding the footplate away

With your wheelchair it is not possible to fold the footplate away. However if you want to fold your wheelchair you
need to ‘release’ the footplate. You need to hold the footplate in the middle and move it upwards to make sure
that the wheelchair can be fold easily. Also when you have unfolded the wheelchair you need to make sure that, by
holding the footplate in the middle and pushing it down, you bring the footplate back in position.

Figure 4

Figure 1 Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 5

Figure 6

~ 14 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

Setting height of the footplate

For adjusting the height of the footplate you need to use the enclosed number 4.

- Loosen both bolts on the footrest completely, see figure 7;

- You can now remove the footplate or adjust the height;

- When you wanted to adjust the height, please select the desired height now and tighten the bolt down;

- Make sure the footplate is in place and that the length is equal on both sides.

5.4 Using the wheelchair brake

Putting the wheelchair on the parking brake and the folding the brake away

If you are in the wheelchair

- Take the black handle of the brake, see figure 8;

- Push the lever forward until you hear the click, this confirms that the wheelchair has put on the parking

brake;

- You can now hide the black lever away, by drawing it upwards and push backwards.

If you are next to the wheelchair

- Go to the side of the wheelchair and face towards the front of the wheelchair;

- Take the black lever of the brake;

- Push the lever forward until you hear the click, this confirms that the wheelchair has been put on the

parking brake;

- You can now hide the black lever away, draw upwards and push backwards, see figure 9.

5.5 Using the armrest

Removing the armrest (optional armrest)

- Get a hold of the arm pad, see figure 10;

- Pull the arm pad perpendicularly upwards from the wheelchair.

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

~ 15 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

Adjusting the armrest height (optional armrest)

To adjust the height of this armrest, you have to use the supplied wrench number 4.

- Loosen the screw with the supplied wrench, see figure 10;

- Move the armrest to the correct height and tighten the screw back down;

- Make sure the screw is securely tightened.

5.6 Using push handles

Swing away the push handles

- Hold the push handle and press the black knob on it, see figure 11;

- You can now move the push handles down, see figure 12;

5.7 Potential uses and functions of the back of the wheelchair

Using the tension bar (optional)

- If you fold out the wheelchair, the tension bar is the last item to lock into place by pulling it upwards with the
nylon hoop, see figure 13;

- If you wish to fold your wheelchair you must first release the tension bar. You can do this by pulling the nylon
loop of the tension bar downwards gently.

Setting the angle of the backrest (explanation of the function)

On your wheelchair you have the opportunity to adjust the angle of the backrest. As you can not do this yourself we
advise you to go to an authorized @ Excel dealer.

Setting the height of the backrest (explanation of the function, compact)

On your wheelchair you have the opportunity to adjust the height of the backrest. As you can not do this yourself
we advise you to go to an authorized @ Excel dealer.

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

~ 16 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

5.8 Using the rear wheels (tire table) and anti-tip wheels

Removal of the rear wheel

You can remove the rear wheels using the quick release system in the following way:

- Stand next to the wheelchair;

- Tilt your wheelchair slightly so the wheel you wish to remove is slightly off the ground;

- Press the black button in the centre of the wheel (figure 14) and remove the axle and wheel from the

frame. Make sure the black button is completely pressed in otherwise the ball bearing safety system that

stops the wheel from being removed at the opposite side of the axle will do exactly that;
To put the rear wheel back in place you must reverse the above steps. In order to ensure your safety please make
sure the axle is fully in place and the ball bearing system is engaged so the wheel does not come loose during use.

Tire table

Type aanduiding Type

rolstoel

Bandmaat
voorwiel

Maximale banden
spanning voorwiel

Bandmaat
achterwiel

Maximale bandenspanning
achterwiel

EXCEL®
G6 ‘High Active’

Zelfvoort

beweger

6" X 1 ¼"

4" x1"

2,5 bar / 36 psi 24" x 1 7,5 bar / 110 psi

Using the anti-tip wheels (swing-away)

Go to the back of the wheelchair;

- When you get down to your knees you will see the operating system of the anti-tip wheels, see figure 15;

- Press the two silver buttons (figure 16) on the anti-tip wheel to slide anti-tippers in and out;

- When the anti-tip wheel touches the ground it is in the correct position;

- Make sure the anti-tip wheel is correctly in place;

- When you do not want to use the anti-tip wheel, push the silver buttons and turn the anti-tipper upside

down, see figure 46.

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

~ 17 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

5.9 Using accessories and other options on your wheelchair

The seat cushion

Your wheelchair is equipped with a 5 cm thick, nylon seat cushion. This seat cushion is equipped with an anti-skid
layer, see figure 17. You need to place the seat cushion with the anti-slip side down on your wheelchair. When you
are going to sit in the wheelchair the seat cushion will not move.

Seat Belt (optional item)

Your wheelchair is equipped with a seat belt which you can use the following way:

- When in the wheelchair, you can fasten the belt by clicking the two loose ends together, see figure 18;

- If the belt too loose or too tight you can make it more secure or looser, see figure 19;

- To release the seat belt, you press the red button with 'press' printed on.

Taxi Fixation Points

On your wheelchair, you will find taxi fixation indication points, see figure 20. You should be familiar with these
items before transporting your wheelchair in a car or on a mini bus. We advise you to make contact with the
carrier, your supplier and/or an approved manufacturer of taxi fixation systems for advice on an adequate system if
you want to transport your wheelchair

Figure 20

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

~ 18 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

Product identification

Product : Physically propelled wheelchair
Brand : Excel
Model/type : G6
Version : ‘High Active’

Manufacturer: Name Van Os Medical B.V.
Address Koperslagerij 9

Country The Netherlands

EU Representative: Name W. van Os

Address Koperslagerij 9

Country The Netherlands

Function Director

Technical constructed file

Prepared by: Name J.M.J. Brouwer BBA
Function: Research and Development
Issue date: 01 - 02 - 2009
TCF: 01 - 02 - 2009
Recertification date: -

Certificate/report no.:
Crash test report no. according to ISO 7176/19:

Means of conformity

The product is in conformity with Directive 93/42/EEG based on the use of a
Technical construction file in accordance with Article 9 (Class I products) of the
Directive

Signature of EU representative:

Place : Steenbergen

Date : 01 - 02 - 2009

Number : VOS.TCF.G6.0212

EN 12183

EN 1041

ISO 7176

-15

ISO 7176

CERAH

FRANCE

~ 19 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

6. TRANSPORT AND TRANSIT IN CAR

Your Excel® wheelchair is designed to be easily transported by car. Your wheelchair is foldable so the total width is
limited to an average measure of 20 cm. Further your wheelchair is equipped with swing away and detachable
footrests. At the same time some wheelchairs can be equipped with a couple of size decreasing accessories, like
quick release (detachable) rear wheels and a foldable backrest.

6.1 De-assembly

Take away the foot rests on the front side of your wheelchair (see chapter 5 ‘Instructions for use and mounting
options’).

1. Remove the seat cushion if your wheelchair is equipped with one;

2. Fold the wheelchair:

Stand next to the wheelchair. Get a hold of the seat in the middle of the rear and front and pull is straight

up. To fold the chair completely, tilt the chair sideward (so the wheels can not drag) and push the sides

towards each other.

 Attention! A number of Excel® wheelchairs have lengthened backrest upholstery on the lower side. This
lower side is equipped with a Velcro strap, which is folded under the seat. You will have to loosen this first
before folding the chair.

3. If it is necessary to, due to a small space, remove the rear wheels or use the foldable backrest, than see

chapter 5, ‘Instructions for use and mounting options’.

6.2 Assembly

If the rear wheels are removed, you will have to place them back first (see chapter 5, ‘Instructions for use and
mounting options’).

1. Go stand next to the wheelchair, tilt the wheelchair a bit towards you and push the seat tube down. The

wheelchair will un-fold. Go stand before the wheelchair and push again on the two seat tubes to ensure that
they are directly on the frame. This is confirmed by flat seat upholstery.



Warning:

If you de-assemble/assemble the wheelchair, ensure yourself that both tubes are on their places in

the holders on the front of the frame. If not, the chair is unsafe for use.

7. MAINTAINENCE

Protect your Excel® wheelchair by having it serviced regularly.

We strongly advise you to let your wheelchair check at lease once a year by a qualified Excel® dealer, who will only
use Excel® spare parts. This periodic inspection will ensure you that the wheelchair will function perfectly for
years.

There are a lot of things you can do yourself to keep your wheelchair in optimum condition. If you regularly check
the wheelchair and perform (small) maintenance, this will extend the lifetime and increase the ease of use.

7.1 Tyres

Examine tyres periodically for wear and replace them as needed.

Air tyres: These tyres should be checked weekly for correct tyre pressure. You will find the recommended

tyre pressure on the rear wheels and you can check it with a standard car or bicycle tyre pressure
gauge. If the tyres of the wheelchair not have the correct pressure it will lean to the side where the
minimum pressure is. It will also influence the driving comfort and it will mean you have to exert
more effort to move the wheelchair.

~ 20 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

PU tyres: More and more we use PU tyres (polyurethane or puncture-free tyres) on the wheelchair. You can

recognise these tyres because they do not have a valve. These tyres have the advantage that they
do not need to be pumped up and can not be punctured. This PU tyre can just as an air tyre wear
out. Check periodically to see if the tread is still deep enough.



Warning:

When tyres are not fully inflated this may cause bad functioning of the brakes and make the chair

move when not intended.

7.2 Brakes

Before you can check the brakes, you need to make sure the tyre pressure is correct, see chapter 7.1.
Inspect both brakes for sharp rims. If there are sharp rims on the brakes we advise you to replace them. Ensure
that all the parts of the brake are in the right position and fastened secure;

- Make sure that the mechanism is functioning smoothly. If it is not functioning smoothly put some oil at turning

points with one or two drips of WD40 oil or Teflon. Remove surplus oil and dirt;

- Make sure the brakes do not come into contact with the wheels as you are moving.

7.3 Cross brace

The cross-frame of the wheelchair has to be in a good condition. The cross brace is the basic of your wheelchair.

- Make sure the wheelchair can easily be fold and unfold;

- Make sure the wheelchair travels in a straight line while moving;

- Make sure the cross frame is not bent and shows no wear signs;
When one of the exceptions, noted above, occurs, please contact a qualified Excel® dealer to inspect your
wheelchair.

7.4 Rear wheel

A good adjustment of the rear wheels improves the stability of the wheelchair. Also it will allow you to use less
energy to move the wheelchair.

- Make sure that the wheels can move freely without touching anything;

- Make sure there is no margin on the rear wheels.
When one of the exceptions, noted above, occurs or if an adjustment is necessary it is recommended to do this
through a qualified Excel® dealer.

7.5 Front castor and front castor fork

The front fork must move and turn freely to ensure a smooth ride.

- Make sure the nut of the front fork is nor to loose or to tight. When the nut is too loose, the wheels will rotate

but the ride will be uncomfortable. If the nut is too tight, the chair will be difficult to steer because of the
bearings getting pushed so the balls can not move freely. When the nut is correct in place the front wheel will
stop slowly;

- Make sure the front castor shows no wear signs.
When one of the exceptions, noted above, occurs or if an adjustment is necessary it is recommended to do this
through a qualified Excel® dealer.

7.6 Upholstery

It is important to check the lining of your wheelchair regularly. Torn or worn upholstery can no longer support
human weight and this can create dangerous situations.

- Check the textile coating for holes, cracks and worn spots;

- Check the upholstery-mounting grommets to make sure that they are all correctly aligned and secure.

 For the maximum tyre pressure we direct you to chapter 5, ‘

Instructions for use and mounting options’.

~ 21 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

7.7 Cleaning

It is important to clean your wheelchair regularly.

- Clean the upholstery, chassis and plastic components on the wheelchair regularly with a mild soap and water.

Never use abrasive cleaners, they can damage the varnish. Also never use steam or high pressure cleaners;

-

Wax the varnish of the chassis regularly. Never use solvents, abrasive waxes, caustic chemicals or spray
silicone;

-

Dry the wheelchair after cleaning. Also dry you wheelchair after you have been, for example, in a rainstorm.

8. PROBLEM ANALYSIS AND SOLUTIONS

Your Excel® wheelchair is inspected and adjusted so that you can use it immediately. Continual use necessitates
maintenance, especially if the factory set adjustments have been altered.

The following troubleshooting guide, lists several common problems that may occur and offers corrective actions
for each.

Symptom

Looseness in chair

Squeaks / rattles

Castor flutter

The wheelchair moves too heavy

Sluggish turning

Chair veers left

Chair veers right

POSSIBLE CAUSE AND CORRECT SOLUTION



   

Check if the tyre pressure is correct and equal in both wheels. See

chapter 7.1.

  



Check if all nuts and bolts are tightly stuck.



  

Rear wheels and/or castors may be adjusted improperly. Make sure that both
rear wheels and castor are mounted in identical positions.



Check if the bearings are not worn.



  

Castor forks may be adjusted improperly. Make sure they are adjusted

properly.

 If you have problems that cannot be solved with the troubleshooting table, we advise you to contact a
qualified Excel® dealer.

 You can also use a car shampoo; this cleans, protect and gives

a beautiful gloss to your wheelchair.



We recommend the

use of only

Excel® replacement

parts. If you do not use original Excel® parts the
warranty will be expired.

~ 22 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

9. WARRANTY

9.1 Warranty application

Together with your wheelchair you get the factory warranty. However, it is possible that your dealer offers a
supplementary warranty. This manual only handles the factory warranty as given by Van Os Medical.

This warranty is only granted to you as the consumer. It is not intended to be used commercially (like hiring or
institutional use). The warranty is limited to defects to materials and possible hidden shortages. VAN OS MEDICAL
guarantees the following components on your EXCEL® wheelchair:

COMPONENT

None

2 years

10 years

A) Side frames, cross bar



B) Wheels, hand brakes, front forks, arm rests, foot rests and all

components not stated here under:



C) Upholstered components like seat and back upholstery and rigid arms,

plastic parts as foot plates, coating and rubber parts. Tyres and inner tubes.



Also you can find the warranty periods label on the frame of your wheelchair. See also chapter 1.

9.2 Warranty definition

Your manual is also the warranty form, fill in the relevant details in and store it carefully.

Warranty conditions
The warranty period commences upon the date of purchase. If within the warranty period, your wheelchair will be
defect, it will be repaired or replaced.
However you do need to provide to Van Os Medical a complete filled in warranty registration form or a copy of the
bill with date of purchase. Without a warranty registration form or a proof of the purchase date the warranty will
start at the date when VAN OS MEDICAL sent the invoice to the dealer.

Repairs and replacement must be performed by an authorized Van Os Medical service agent. To qualify for the
warranty, your wheelchair must require the care standards. Furthermore, if a problem occurs, you need to fully
inform the Van Os Medical service agent immediately. If you use the wheelchair outside the designated area of the
Van Os Medical service agent, you can repair your wheelchair by any other, by the factory approved, service agent.

When parts of the wheelchair, within 24 months after the commence date, needs reparation or replacement, as a
result of a manufactory or material error and the wheelchair is with its first owner, the part or parts will be
repaired or replaced free of charge.

This warranty does not include any labour charges incurred by replacements.

Replaced or repaired parts fall under the same warranty conditions as the original wheelchair. Worn parts are
normally not guaranteed, unless these parts are worn as a direct result of an original manufacturer defect. These
parts are for example upholstery, tyres, inner tubes and similar kinds of parts.

The warranty conditions above describe all wheelchair parts, and are applied for the models bought at the normal
end-user price.



This warranty is not

transferrable.

~ 23 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

With normal circumstances no responsibility is accepted when the wheelchair needs replacement or repairs as a
direct result from:

1. Not maintaining the wheelchair and parts according to the recommendations of the manufacturer, or not using

the specific original parts;

2. Damaging the wheelchair or parts by inattentive use, accident or wrong use;

3. Adjusting the wheelchair or parts, different from the specifications of the manufacturer, or reparations done

before the service agent is warned.

4. If the product is not equipped with an original factory frame number and identification label as described in

the manual, see chapter 1.

The wheelchair that is described and showed in this manual can differ from your own model in details. However, all
instructions are relevant, independent of slightly different details. We reserve the right to change the product in
this manual without further notice. All drawings, measures and capacities showed in this manual, are
approximations and may be slightly different to your wheelchairs specifications.



Warning:

Van Os Medical can not be liable for any consequent or individual damage whatsoever. While this

manual is created with care it is not exclusive. If you are going to use the wheelchair not in

accordance with the guidelines in this manual you need to consult with an authorized Van Os Medical

dealer. The warranty is only valid during the indicated period. If adjustments are made to the

wheelchair, who have structural impact on the product, the warranty will expire completely. U can

contact Van Os Medical for an enlarged warranty and supply conditions and a address list of

authorized dealers.

For warranty service, contact your authorised dealer from where you bought your wheelchair. If it occurs that you
are not helped to your satisfaction concerning the warranty service, please contact VAN OS MEDICAL in writing. You
can find the address on front page of this manual.

10. SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

10.1 General maintenance instructions

Your wheelchair needs periodical maintenance. This is necessary for a long lifetime and an optimal users comfort of
your wheelchair. A badly maintained wheelchair will give more technical problems, turn less flexible and fall out
the warranty terms.

Preventive maintenance is most important and many of these things you can easily do yourself or a friend or family
member can help you. We highlight below the maintenance you can do yourself.

Every week Check tyre pressure;
Every month Check the fold ability of the wheelchair and the quick release rear wheels;

Check upholstery for wear;
Check wheel movement front and rear and check turn ability of the wheels;
Check if the brakes are working correct;

Every three months Check all bolts, screws and nuts and tighten if necessary;
Check all spokes for tension;

Check tyre tread for wear.

Furthermore we advise you let you wheelchair check by an authorised dealer every year. Make sure you dealer
checks the point mentioned by paragraph 10.2.



In c

hapter 7, you will also find

extensive information on the
maintenance of your wheelchair.

~ 24 ~

Overall user manual

©

2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.

Tel. [phone], Fax [phone], E-mail: [e-mail], www.vanosmedical.com

10.2 Service checklist

For optimal life your wheelchair should be periodically maintained by an authorized dealer.

Service interval: ................................

Service Schedule

Service number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Wheels: for example margin, wear bearings, adjust

quick-release

Tyres

Hand rims: for example wear and burrs

Front forks: for example control margin, adjustment

ball head axle

Brakes

: for example

adjustm

ent, re

-

adjust, control

for margins

Foot rests: for example adjustment, line out

Frame: for example fracture, welding seams, plastic

component

Arm rests: for example fixation, rigid arms

Sealing-wax / coating / chrome

Seat cushion

Upholstery: for example adjust straps, control

Connection material on all components

Teflon treatment of all moving parts

Checked by (initials)

Inspection date

Service stamp dealer

In practice the usage intensity varies greatly from person to person. It may therefore be that in your case, the
wheelchair requires servicing more or less often than once a year.

 Maintenance is not warranty. Your dealer may deviate from the maintenance interval.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

www.vanosmedical.com