Short Description
A lightweight and portable on/off power solution for rigid frame manual wheelchair users. It consists of a single wheeled unit with a handle that is fitted to the rear camber bar. It is powered by a rechargeable lithium ion battery which is inserted under the wheelchair seat. The user weight: must be between 36kg and 112kg.
Method Of Use
*The SmartDrive is intuitive to use, just push to go and stop by applying pressure on the handrims of the wheelchair wheels.
* It may take a little while to learn how it responds and how to use it sensibly. The supplier recommends that you read the User Manual and get used to using the product in a flat open environment. Once you feel confident using the product slowly test it in different environments.
More Details
Application
* For manual wheelchair users requiring assistance in propelling their wheelchair, but not requiring a full power wheelchair
Features
* The SmartDrive can power the user up steep hills, through carpet and over grass
* The SmartDrive freely rotates about the camber bar, so it floats along the ground and allows you to drop off curbs. It moves with you and will follow you wherever you want to go
* It can be turned off and on as required
Wheelchair type
* Must be rigid frame with 32mm (1-1/4") axle tube diameter
* Requires 50mm (2inches) of clearance between seat upholstery and seat rigidiser bar (bar that goes from seat rail to seat rail under the upholstery).
* Rear wheel size must be between 22" and 26"
Battery
The battery has a 12 month warranty. However, it is lithium ion phosphate technology with a recharge cycle that indicates a three to five year life.
Braking
There is no brake on the SmartDrive. It is stopped by applying pressure on the handrims of the wheelchair wheels, in the same way you would normally stop.
Transporting
* The SmartDrive can be taken on planes or as check in luggage
Factors To Consider
Precautions for use
* The SmartDrive requires a reasonable level of hand function. The on and off control is a button located at the front of the battery pack. Because the SmartDrive has considerable power the amount of pressure needed to stop the wheelchair increases.
The SmartDrive should ALWAYS be turned OFF when dropping off a curb or gutter. If it is left on the increase in speed as the wheelchair drops will be interpreted as a fast push and the SmartDrive will speed up. This is potentially very dangerous.
* The supplier also recommends the SmartDrive be turned off when going down hills
* The SmartDrive and battery should NEVER be fully immersed in water
* The SmartDrive should not be used on sand, loose pebble, muddy or wet or slippery surfaces. The supplier recommends that you do not use the SmartDrive in the rain
* When using the SmartDrive on rough and uneven footpaths it is best to have your weight on the rear wheels in the same way you would without the SmartDrive * For rough and uneven surfaces and grass the supplier recommends using the SmartDrive in conjunction with the FreeWheel.
Installation
A clamp is fitted to the camber tube. After that the wheel can be put on and off in seconds, and the battery slides under the seat upholstery.
Maintenance
* It is likely that the rollers on the drive wheel will wear out over time. There are 16 rollers on the wheel. The supplier can quote on a set of 16 rollers plus any fitting charges required
Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information also see www.ilcaustralia.org.au/Using_Assistive_Technology/standards_regulation
Place Of Manufacture
Max Mobility (United States of America)