Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs

Power assist accessories allow wheelchair users to travel for longer distances and on challenging terrain. They also decrease the amount of effort required to propel the wheelchair, which results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.

These devices are easy to transport and don't change the appearance of manual chairs. They are also easy to use.

WheelDrive

Front wheel drive wheelchairs are most robust and stable. The large drive wheels can "grab" the road, allowing the chair to navigate difficult terrains such as gravel, grass or steps. This design is ideal if you have to maneuver your wheelchair through tight spaces. You can easily turn sharply with the front drive.

In the process of selecting, your Therapist or assistant Technology Professional will consider which base and components best meet your requirements. An add-on for power assist is also a good option to think about. There are many options available for power assistance, including front-wheel add-ons, mid-wheel add-ons, and rear-wheel add-ons.

The brand new and relaunched WheelDrive add-on offered by Sunrise Medical features a dual rim design, which offers a variety of driving modes. The large 'assist ' rim offers additional power assistance with each push, which reduces fatigue and lets you go further per push. While the smaller 'drive rim' provides continuous power to make it easier to climb. The WheelDrive can be mounted on virtually every manual wheelchair, without the need for additional components or modifications. It can be switched between two driving modes with an easy-to-use power button.

The power assistance is provided by the hub motor, which is a brushless design. It is powered by detachable lightweight batteries that can be fully charged in less than two hours. Its compact size and ease of use make it a perfect choice for those who require a little extra help to travel for long distances. The WheelDrive is maintenance-free, unlike power assist accessories powered by batteries which can be difficult to maintain in good in good working order.

We suggest that you speak with one of our ATPs to get more information and to witness the demonstration if you're contemplating the addition of a power wheelchair with front-wheel drive to your manual wheelchair. If you're thinking about the new Empulse 4Front 2 powered wheelchair that comes with FrontDrive, the FrontDrive system comes standard with iLevel that raises the safe seat elevation to 12 inches. This allows you to complete mobility related activities of daily living, such as reaching, grooming and toileting at a greater height, which will help you live healthier and happier.

Rear Power Assist add-ons

Power wheelchair accessories can cut down on the effort required to propel manual wheelchairs. They can also preserve shoulder health and reduce the fear of injury that is associated with the repetitive, long-lasting manual propulsion. You can go further, traverse steep slopes, and maneuver through difficult conditions by adding power assist to your chair.

The power add-ons for wheelchairs could be classified into three categories: rear attachments, which are similar to SmartDrive, front attachments that raise the wheels of the casters of manual chairs off of the ground (similarly to a bicycle), and hybrid systems combining both features. Front attachments are typically controlled via a hand-rim activated device, such as the Alber Smoov or Klaxon Twist and rear attachments are usually joystick conversion devices like the Alber E-Motion or SmartDrive.

Some of these wheelchair power accessories are powered by a rechargeable battery as well as others, such as the WheelDrive are connected to the motor inside the wheelchair and powered by the kinetic energy of the wheel's movement. The ones powered by batteries are generally smaller and lighter than those that rely on kinetic energy to drive the wheels.

Spinergy ZX-1 is one of the most sought-after wheelchair accessories. It can be attached to the rigid or folding frame of active wheelchairs. There are three levels of support, and they can be changed by pressing the button. It is also simple to transfer from manual to power mode and then back again.

The BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel is another option. It has three support levels, and can be controlled with a joystick. This makes it perfect for those who require different levels of assistance in various situations. These kinds of power add-ons can also be used to help relieve the pressure on elbows and shoulders and elbows, allowing you to travel further and with less effort. This is particularly beneficial when you are concerned about the effects of propulsion for long distances on your shoulders.

Active User Wheelchairs

Active user wheelchairs are made for those who want to be independent and mobile and lead an active lifestyle. They are much lighter and more manoeuvrable than standard self propelled wheelchairs Links to an external site. , which means that users will experience less wear and tear on their upper body. They can also traverse difficult terrain for longer distances without assistance.

A wheelchair that is designed for an active lifestyle will usually have a compact frame size that helps increase mobility. Additionally the rear wheels are generally larger than standard wheelchairs to enable the user to easily access them and then propel themselves forward. The backrest is often lower to allow the user to move their shoulders and arms freely when self-propelling.

Powered add-ons can also be used to boost the efficiency of your wheelchair for active users. They can provide extra power when needed. This is useful when climbing up hills, traveling long distances, or when the user is exhausted. The user can control a powered add-on by using voice commands or eye movements. This can assist them to be more independent and less dependent on someone else to push them.

E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are an innovative and exciting method of improving mobility and efficiency. These attach to the front of a wheelchair to transform it into a tri-wheeled handbike, allowing the user to travel more quickly and further than they could on their own. This is beneficial for people who are looking to commute to work or run errands, or just would like to take a relaxing ride. The power bike can be customized to meet the requirements and preferences of the user. There are different options for rear wheel angles as well adjustable seat tension and footrest positioning. This provides the ultimate in flexibility and individualization.

Foldable Power Assist Device

Power add-ons are connected to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs and replace their existing rear wheels. They are easy to use and permit the user to go on more distances with less effort. They are typically light and feature advanced control systems to alter programming, monitor battery level and fault detection remotely.

These are aftermarket accessories that can be fitted to various manual wheelchairs including folding models. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ and Alber Smoov. The device is started through pushing one button or switch, and is controlled with a wireless wristband to activate the motor and adjust settings such as speed. Some come with a built in push tracker that records how much power was used.


They allow individuals to travel longer distances without getting tired and can aid them in climbing hills and other obstacles with ease. They help users maintain their independence by continuing to engage in regular activities, work and spending time with family and friends.

In certain instances using an assist device can help prevent sores from pressure by reducing amount of force exerted by the individual. They also can reduce the amount of time needed to complete activities that require mobility and make it easier for people to overcome obstacles like steps, inclines and curb cuts.

Many foldable power-assist products are portable, so users can bring their wheelchair on family trips without the need for a van. They can be removed from the chair to transport to work or other occasions and then reattached upon return. This can help people maintain their job, volunteer activities and other commitments to continue to be an integral part of their community and contribute to the society.

When not in use non-folding power assist devices are usually heavier and larger. Many of them are foldable and have their accessories removed for even more space. They can be stored inside the trunk of any family vehicle. This lets people travel with their families to work, to other places and even visit friends and family.