Many Americans suffer from conditions that make it difficult for them to get around normally. In the past, traditional manually operated wheelchairs have been the only option for these individuals. However, today, a number of different motorized chairs are available to help the disabled and impaired get around.
The electric wheelchair, or powerchair, is a motorized chair propelled by electric power. Motorized wheelchairs are helpful to impaired individuals who need to regularly travel distances and would find themselves greatly fatigued using manually powered wheelchairs. Electric wheelchairs are also handy for patients with cardiovascular or fatigue related illnesses.
The motorized wheelchair was invented by George Klein, a worker for the National Research Council of Canada. The organization was founded to assist injured veterans who fought during World War II.
Powerchairs vary in exactly how they function. However, generally speaking, they are four-wheeled and non-folding. The four types of drive systems include front wheel drive, centre and rear wheel drive, and all-wheel drive.
In addition to varying by drive systems, electric chairs also vary by the type of battery used to power them and by the controller used. Electric motors in powerchairs are typically powered by 4 to 5 amp deep-cycle rechargeable batteries. The controller for the electric wheelchair may be found in an arm-rest, by the user’s head, or mounted in a separate controller. Placement of the control unit depends mainly on how the patient plans to drive the chair, or whether an aide will assist in driving it for him.
Seats of electric wheelchairs can vary as well. In simpler chairs, the seat may merely be a sling. In higher end chairs, the seat is often an impressive ‘captain’s chair’ design. Head and leg rests are often situated for support, and adjustable to user comfort. In addition, many powerchairs include reclining facility.
Besides user comfort, powerchairs are designed to adapt to a variety of different environments. Depending on the user’s lifestyle, they may be fitted for indoor or outdoor use. Indoor chairs are often designed to resemble traditional living room armchairs. In contrast, outdoor electric wheelchairs are often designed to be more rugged, and are more suited for outdoor use.
you opperate it by the controller on the electric battery you opperate it by the controller on the electric battery
George Johann Klein invented the electric-powered wheelchair in the 1950s.
Yes, an electric wheelchair is considered a vehicle as it is a device used for transportation.
1955
Yes, but the electric wheelchair must first be shown to be medically necessary - in particular, that the individual cannot use a manual wheelchair.
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Too much for two strong men to get up 3 steps. A lot.
George J. Klein invented the electric wheelchair.
The electric-powered wheelchair was invented by George Klein to aid injured veterans after World War II. He developed in 1953 while he was working for the National Research Council of Canada.
I am sorry to hear about your medical condition. Yes they do make electric wheel chairs which have batteries that can be charged.
Yes, it is possible to get a DUI while operating an electric wheelchair if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs. The same laws that apply to driving a motor vehicle typically apply to operating any vehicle, including electric wheelchairs, while under the influence.
Though an electric wheelchair is suited for uneven surfaces, they are not generally recommended for use on lawns. Some grasses, like St. Augustine, have longer runners that can get caught in the wheels. Also there is a danger of the electric wheelchair getting stuck in high grass or mud.