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Quickie
Q500
H General Manual
6.1 Batteries
Batteries are the power source for almost all of the modern mobility products
available today. The design of batteries used in mobility products is signifi cantly
diff erent to the batteries used to start a car for example. Car batteries are
designed to release a large amount of power over a short period of time, while
mobility batteries (commonly called deep cycle batteries) release their power
evenly, over a long period of time. Therefore, due to the lower production
volumes and increased technological requirements, mobility batteries are typically
more expensive.
Commonly two 12 volt batteries are used together in a mobility product, giving
a total voltage of 24 volts. The size of the battery (e.g. its available power) is
expressed in amps per hour e.g. 70amp/hr. The higher the number, the bigger the
battery size, weight and, potentially, the greater the distance you can travel. Sunrise
Medical only fi t as standard maintenance free batteries into these types of
wheelchairs. This type of battery uses a method of carrying the electrolyte
commonly referred to as 'gel', that is held within the battery case. As the name
implies, no maintenance is required other than regular charging. You can safely
transport this type of battery without fear of acid spilling. Furthermore, they are
approved for transportation on aircraft, trains, and ships.
CAUTION!
1.
Do not fi t car batteries to the wheelchair. Fit only deep cycle, maintenance
free mobility batteries.
2.
When the batteries are worn out, take them to the local authority disposal
point.
3.
Return the batteries directly to the battery manufacturer for recycling, when
they no longer hold a charge.
4.
The battery terminals need to be checked regularly for signs of corrosion.
If any corrosion is apparent, clean the terminals completely and apply
petroleum jelly or silicone grease to the terminal. Do not use ordinary
grease. Ensure that the terminal nut and bolt, cable clip, and exposed cable
are completely covered with petroleum jelly or silicone grease.
1.
Do not expose any part of the battery to direct heat (i.e. naked fl ame,
gas fi re).
2.
Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool onto the
battery. It could spark or short circuit the battery or other electrical parts
that may cause an explosion. Also take off all personal metal eff ects and
dangling objects when working on the battery.
251688 Rev. C
DANGER!
6.0 BATTERIES, CHARGING, AND RANGE
1.
Do not, under any circumstances, tamper with the batteries. If in any doubt
contact your Sunrise Medical authorized dealer.
2.
Avoid contact with acid on damaged sealed type batteries or wet batteries.
3.
Battery acid can cause burns to the skin as well as damage to fl oors,
furniture, and your wheelchair.
4.
If battery acid comes into contact with the skin or clothing, wash
immediately with soap and water.
5.
If battery acid comes into contact with the eye, immediately fl ood the eye
with running cold water for at least 10 minutes and seek medical attention
immediately.
6.
Acid spills can be neutralized with baking soda and water.
7.
Ensure you keep batteries upright at all times, especially when transporting
your wheelchair.
Safety cut-outs
In the event of a short circuit there are several safety systems built into your
wheelchair to safeguard your electrical circuits (Fig. 6.1).
1.
Fusible 100A links are connected into the battery harnesses to protect the
batteries and wiring.
2.
15A auxiliary power circuit fuses for auxiliary modules.
To replace them contact your Sunrise Medical authorized dealer, who will also
diagnose the original fault.
14
DANGER!
Fig. 6.1
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