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4.12 Wheelchair motors
After prolonged use, the motors will produce heat, which is
radiat ed through the motors' outer casing. Do not touch the
motors' outer casing for at least 30 minutes after using the
wheelchair, to allow it to cool. (
Fig. 3
4.13 Hot surfaces
Not only the motors can get hot during the operation of the chair,
but also the upholstery material and armrests when standing in
the sun.
4.14 Wheelchair range
The range of your wheelchair can be affected by many factors
such as user weight, terrain, ambient temperature, use of
powered op tions and battery condition. The stated range in the
sales literature should be seen as the theoretical maximum (ISO 7176;
Part 4) and may not be attained by every user (also see section 11.12.
in this manual).
We recommend that every user initially limit their journey to half
the stated range, until they have confidence in the actual range their
wheelchair can attain. If your battery indicator is showing a low
charge then do not attempt a long journey unless you are confident in
reaching your destination and also returning to your home without the
risk of being left stranded.
4.15 Road caution
Please show the utmost consideration for the other traffic on
the road. Remember that the last thing a car or lorry driver
expects to see is a wheelchair backing off the kerb into the
road. If in any doubt, do not risk crossing the road until you are certain
that it is safe. Always cross the road as quickly as possible; there may
be other traffic.
4.16 Adverse conditions
Please be aware that when driving your wheelchair in adverse
conditions, e.g. on wet grass, mud, ice, snow or other slippery
surfaces, you may experience a reduction in the grip and
traction of your wheelchair. We recommend you take extra precautions
in these conditions, particularly on hills and slopes; your wheelchair
could become unstable or skid causing possible injury. Extreme
variances in temperature may trigger the self protect mechanism in
the control system. If this occurs the control system will temporarily
shut down to prevent damage to the electronics or the chair.
4.17 Ramps
When using a ramp, please ensure that it is capable of taking
the combined weight of the power chair and yourself. If a ramp
is being used to load a chair into a vehicle, please ensure the
ramp is properly secured to the vehicle. Always approach the ramp
head-on and exercise caution.
Note: Please ensure your ramp is suitable for the product you are
transporting.
4.18 Transfer to and from the chair
Sunrise Medical recommend that you consult your healthcare
professional for assistance in developing your personal front or
side transfer technique to best suit your needs and avoid any
personal injury.
10
Quickie SALSA
)
Fig. 3
Note: Ensure controller is switched off during transfers to avoid
unintentional movement.
4.19 Lift and tilt modules
Please be aware that the lift and tilt modules present a trap
hazard. Make sure that when operating the tilt and lift it is free
from all clothing, hands, feet and other extremities to prevent
injury.
Do not drive on ramps or slopes with the seat tilted, reclined or raised.
Before attempting to climb or descend a slope, return to an upright
position
4.20 Anti-tips
Make sure that anti-tips are not damaged or worn before using
your chair.
Attendants must be aware of the location of the anti-tips to
prevent feet being trapped underneath causing injury
Attendants - Do not stand on the anti-tips, this could cause the
wheelchair to become unstable.
4.21 Use on a slope
Your wheelchair has been designed and tested to allow its use
on slopes or gradients of up to 9° (16%). However, you have the
option of adjusting your seating position with either a lift, tilt or
recline or a combination of these options, then in certain circumstances
your wheelchair could become unstable. Before attempting to climb or
descend a slope or a kerb, caution should be taken when using weight
shift options (e.g. powered tilt or recline) of the seat and/or your
body for a counter balance weight. To improve stability lean forward
when driving uphill, with the seat and back in an upright position.
Alternatively sit in an upright position when travelling in a forward,
downhill direction or tilt and/or recline the seat backwards.
We strongly recommend that you return the seat and back to an
upright lowered position before attempting to climb or descend
a slope. Failure to do this may cause the wheelchair to become
unstable.
If you are in any doubt about the capabilities of your wheelchair on
a slope then do not attempt to drive up or down the slope/kerb; try to
find an alternative route.
4.21.1
Gradients: ascents
When going uphill, keep the chair moving. Steer by moving
the joystick from side to side. If you have stopped on a hill, you
should start slowly. If necessary lean forward to prevent the
tendency for the front wheels to lift.
4.21.2
Gradients: descents
On descents, it is important not to let the wheelchair accelerate
beyond its normal level of ground speed. In fact, it is safer to
proceed slowly down steep descents (below the speed of 5kph)
and stop, if any anxiety arises regarding directional control. If the
chair picks up speed, centre the control to slow it or to stop all forward
movement, then restart slowly and do not allow the speed to increase.
The solid state controller has the benefit of a logic system that will
help compensate when driving along a camber or up a hill. This is an
added safety feature on your wheelchair. In addition of course, you
may control the wheelchair speed by using the speed control.
060474
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