Electric Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs mean so much to those with restricted mobility. Thanks to Wheelchairs those with limited movement can become more portable and regain their independence. There are two main types of wheelchairs and they are the manual Wheelchairs and the electric wheelchair.
Manual Wheelchairs
The manual wheelchair has been in use for years and has gone through many changes. The constant feature has been that the chair is self moved by pushing on the hand edges that encircle the wheels. The owner actually pushes the wheels around and around to get from one location to the other. In addition to that, the footrests to a manual wheelchair can be taken away and the owner can walk the chair forward with his feet.
Electric Wheelchair
Electric wheelchair are of course motorized by batteries. These wheelchairs are bigger, heavier and sturdier because they have to be able to hold the additional mass of the motor and the battery. Electric wheelchairsalso vary in their sophistication. Some are straightforward and use typical batteries and joy stick controllers. Others utilize microprocessors and robotic circuitry which make possible the electric wheelchair to raise itself on to wheels so it can go up stairs. The level of complexity is shown in the price of an electric wheelchair. The prices can vary from $2000 all the way up to $30,000.
The most advanced electric wheelchair today is the iBOT. The iBOT is so technically advanced that it can climb up stairs, slide across gravel and even lift so the owner can reach high shelves. The iBOT can even self adjust its stabilization to balance for use on four wheels and two wheels.
A unique software package called iBALANCE receives data via various sensors and gyroscopes, allowing the iBOT to keep balance during certain maneuvers. For example during curb climbing the seat stays level while sections of the frame tilt to climb the curb.
Most people will not be able to obtain such a costly wheelchair as the iBOT. The typical price for an electric wheelchair today is about $7000. This is for a electric wheelchair from a known brand and certified dealer. It is not recommended to purchase a second hand electric wheelchair because you can never know if they have been broken or have worn out motors and batteries. Instead, buy your chair from a licensed dealer so it comes with full coverage for servicing.
Electric wheelchair use different types of propelling systems. One method is the rear wheel drive electric wheelchair. This is the most common. This kind of electric wheelchair has good speed but changing directions can be hard. Another kind is the middle wheel drive wheelchair. These are easier to turn and they are rather efficient , but they can be unstable with unexpected stops and starts. They are not as fast as the rear wheel drive electric wheelchair.
While choosing an electric wheelchair, take your time and evaluate abilities and cost. Ask for extra details from electric wheelchair dealers so you can make an informed decision.
