Many disabled people have achieved a remarkable degree of independence thanks to the advances in wheelchair design and technology. Both manual and electric wheelchairs have benefited from these advances; they are now stronger, more user-friendly and comfortable, and even more stylish then they have ever been.
Manual wheelchairs require that their users are capable of propelling them by pushing on the hand rims which are attached to the outside of the chair’s wheels. They are much lighter than electric wheelchairs, which require frames heavy and strong enough to remain stable while supporting the weight of their batteries and motors.
Different Electric Wheelchair Drives
Electric wheelchairs are designed with a variety of propulsion mechanisms. Rear-wheel drive models are the most common; they are fast, traveling up to 6 miles per hour, but somewhat tricky to maneuver.
Mid-wheel drive models, on the other hand, maneuver extremely well, but can de-stabilize during quick starts and stops. They can travel up to 5.5 mile per hour, but do not handle steep terrain well.
Front-wheel drive electric remain stable on uneven terrain, or when ascending or descending hills. They also navigate over small obstacles better than rear or mid-drive models, but are slower because they have a tendency to “fishtail” at higher speeds. Their top speed is between 5 and 5.5 miles per hour.
Electric Wheelchair Prices
Electric wheelchairs can range, in their technological sophistication, from those which basic batteries and joy-stick operated control to those containing micro-chips and robotic capability which let them balance on only two wheels. The differences in the technologies of electric wheelchairs are reflected in their prices, which can range form $2,000 to $30,000.
The most advanced of the electric wheelchairs presently available is known as the iBOT. This amazingly versatile machine can go up stairs, navigate gravel surfaces, and even lift the user enough to reach high shelves. The iBOT can operate on two wheels as easily as on four, keeping its occupant stabilized by automatically adjusting its balance.
Such remarkable technological sophistication, however, is not without its price. The “smarter” electric wheelchairs are, the more expensive they are; the current average cost of an electric wheelchair is around $7,000. If you are considering shipping for electric wheelchairs, your safest option is to deal only with licensed vendors of well-respected brands, and to make sure the warranties involved cover full repair charges.
While pre-owned electric wheelchairs may seem to be good money-saving options, they may have hidden motor problems, weakened frames, or weak batteries.
You’ll be facing a world of options when you start looking at electric wheelchairs, to be careful to compare and price everything before making a final decision. The dealers will be happy to provide you with all the product information yosu need.
You can also find more information on Wheelchair Batteires and Wheelchair Lift. Wheelchairsreview.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about Wheel Chairs.
Source: www.isnare.com
