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Wheelchairs mean so much to those with limited mobility. Thanks to wheelchairs those with limited movement can become more mobile and regain their independence. There are two main kind of wheelchairs and these are the manual wheelchair and the electric wheelchair.
Manual Wheelchair
The manual wheelchair has been in use for decades and has gone through many revisions. The constant feature has been that the chair is self propelled by pushing on the hand rims that encircle the wheels. The user actually pushes the wheels around and around to get from a place to place. Further more, the footrests to a manual wheelchair can be removed and the user can walk the chair forward with his feet.
Electric Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs are of course motorized by batteries. These wheelchairs are bigger, heavier and sturdier because they must be able to hold the extra mass of the motor and the battery. Electric wheelchairs also differ in their sophistication. Some are uncomplicated and use standard batteries and joy stick controllers. Others utilize microprocessors and robotic circuitry which enables the wheelchair to elevate itself on to wheels so it can go up stairs. The degree of complexity is reflected in the price of an electric wheelchair. The prices can range from $2000 all the way up to $30,000.
The most highly developed electric wheelchair today is the iBOT. The iBOT is so technically sophisticated that it can go up up stairs, slide across gravel and even lift up 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 special computer program called iBALANCE receives information via different sensors and gyroscopes, allowing the iBOT to preserve stability during certain maneuvers. For example during curb climbing the chair remains level while sections of the frame tilt to climb the curb.
Most people will not be able to purchase such a expensive wheelchair as the iBOT. The typical price for an electric wheelchair today is around $7000. This is for a wheelchair from a known brand and certified dealer. It is not advisable to buy a old electric wheelchair because you can never tell if they have been broken or have worn out motors and batteries. As a substitute, buy your chair from a licensed dealer so it comes with full coverage for servicing.
Electric wheelchairs use different types of drive systems. One method is the rear wheel drive wheelchair. This is the most widespread. This type of wheelchair has good speed but changing directions can be complicated. Another kind is the middle wheel drive wheelchair. These are easier to turn and they are fairly efficient , but they can be unsteady with unexpected stops and starts. They are not as speedy as the rear wheel drive wheelchairs.
When selecting an electric wheelchair, take your time and compare capabilities and prices. Ask for further information from wheelchair sellers so you can make a correct decision.
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