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ALTHEA Instructions for Use ALTHEA ALTHEA.19 ARIEL ALTHEA.R ALTHEA.19M ARIEL.R ALTHEA.M ALTHEA.19R ARIEL PLUS ALTHEA PLUS ALTHEA.19 PLUS ARIEL.R PLUS ALTHEA.R PLUS ALTHEA.19R PLUS...
Warnings to reduce any risks associated with misuse of the device ............7 Product presentation ............................9 4.1. ALTHEA, ALTHEA.R, ALTHEA.M, ALTHEA PLUS, ALTHEA.R PLUS, ALTHEA.19, ALTHEA.19R, ALTHEA.19M, ALTHEA.19 PLUS, ALTHEA.19R PLUS, ARIEL, ARIEL.R, ARIEL PLUS, ARIEL.R PLUS ..............................9 Preparation for use ............................14 5.1.
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Spokes guards ..........................30 Attachment of the wheelchair for use within a motor vehicle ..............31 7.1. Attachment of the wheelchair for use within a motor vehicle: ALTHEA, ALTHEA.19, ARIEL ... 33 Maintenance, inspections and controls ..................... 33 8.1. Replacement of tyre and inner tube ....................34 8.2.
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OFFCARR has a certified system for quality management following UNI EN ISO 9001 regulations and a Medical Device - Quality management system following UNI EN ISO 13485 regulations.
1. Labelling Each OFFCARR product is identified by an unique serial number. The serial number, along with other information is visible on the product stickers applied to the frame. Stickers position on the product frame Product sticker (applied on the frame)
1.1. Symbols description Please read all instructions before using the device. Read all Cautions and Warnings carefully. European Conformity - The symbol denotes conformity to European standards. WARNING: Read carefully and follow the indications. NOTE: Auxiliary information. Medical Device UDI: Unique Device Identifier Serial Number Reference - The symbol indicates the model of the product.
• Clean periodically the device using a damp cloth and avoid even partial immersion of the frame. Keeping the device clean enhances its efficiency. Suspend the use of the product and notify OFFCARR in case of allergic reactions or if other similar problems are developed after contact with the device materials.
Any tampering with the components of the device, as well as voiding the warranty, could compromise its structural integrity and safety standards. Contact OFFCARR in case the maximum user weight is exceeded at any point during the device’s lifespan. Contact OFFCARR or your reseller to check for compatibility with accessories produced by a manufacturer different from OFFCARR.
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To have more information about connection points and devices needed to secure the device during transport by car (exclusively valid for crash tested models) see 7, “Attachment of the wheelchair for use within a motor vehicle” Before transferring to or from the device, activate the parking brakes. Always perform transfers with caution.
ALTHEA.19 PLUS, ALTHEA.19R PLUS, ARIEL, ARIEL.R, ARIEL PLUS, ARIEL.R PLUS The wheelchairs of the ALTHEA line are non invasive medical device, specifically designed to reduce and counterbalance a physical handicap. This wheelchair is manually propelled on the back wheels, it has many setups and a wide range of accessories that meet any customer need.
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4.1.8. ALTHEA.19R (lowered and reclining) Description lowered ALTHEA.19R (lowered and reclining): a wheelchair with lowered frame, designed for lower limbs propulsion and reclining backrest (90° to 132°). It shares all characteristics of the ALTHEA, except for the limitations imposed by the frame and the backrest.
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The adjustment only involves the crossbar, and requires selection of the desired width range in the order form. 4.1.12. ARIEL Description ARIEL: very versatile, adjustable wheelchair, maintaining the features of the ALTHEA, only available in children’s measurements. 4.1.13. ARIEL.R Description ARIEL.R (reclining): wheelchair set up with reclining backrest (90°...
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4.1.16. ALTHEA measurements table All measurements are in degrees (°) and millimetres (mm), the weight is expressed in kilograms (kg). Reference R, M versions values Althea Ariel PLUS versions UNI EN Althea.19 12183 Seat angle 0° ÷ 20° (from horizontal) 90°...
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4.1.17. Rear wheel and pushrim diameter The table indicates diameter of rear wheels and relative pushrims. Rear wheel Pushrim outer diameter diameter (average) 12" (300 mm) Without pushrim 20" 445 mm 22" 480 mm 24" 535 mm 4.1.18. Front wheel diameter Front wheel options 80 mm solid...
5. Preparation for use The preparation for use of these devices must be performed by qualified personnel to ensure the specific suitability of the product for the user and the correct working order of all parts and accessories, as well as to provide clear instructions to the user. 5.1.
5.3. Rear wheels release and re-engagement check Verify proper operation of the quick-release axle devices before using the wheelchair. The wheelchair is usually shipped with the rear wheels already mounted. • Make sure the brakes are released • Holding down the quick-release button (in the centre of the hub), slide the wheel out of the bush •...
5.5. Brakes check To check the correct functioning and the efficiency of the parking brakes: • activate the brakes (ON position) • check if the wheels are locked in place Push brake, Push brake, Pull brake, Pull brake, ON position OFF position ON position OFF position...
5.6. Footrest positioning ALTHEA wheelchairs can be configured with detachable or not detachable footrests According to the limits of setup, the footplate can be single or double (separate footplates). The footplates can be folded down once the wheelchair is open The single footplate is available in manual or automatic version.
Some accessories required when setting up the wheelchair may be supplied separately. You must assemble them and check their operation before you start using the wheelchair. 5.8. Reclining backrest check (ALTHEA.R, ALTHEA.PLUS, ALTHEA.19R, ALTHEA.19R PLUS, ARIEL.R, ARIEL.R PLUS) The reclining backrest should be checked with a load on the wheelchair (a seated person).
Always maintain the stretch bar connected and locked to ensure the stability of the backrest while the wheelchair is in use. 5.9. Dampened backrest check (ALTHEA.M and ALTHEA.19M) The dampened backrest should be checked with a load on the wheelchair (a seated person).
6. Accessories ALTHEA can be configured with different accessories, described in the following paragraphs. 6.1. Armrests ALTHEA wheelchairs can be equipped (with some limitations) with: • open Desk armrest (to be used with side-guards fixed to the frame) • closed Desk armrest (with built in side-guards) •...
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All armrests are supplied in a tip-up and removable version. Exceptions are armrests for ALTHEA reclining and cushioned models, which are only removable and not foldable. Conflicts caused by particular configurations may affect the choice of armrests. It is anyways always possible to disable armrest tilting.
If provided by the selected configuration, it is possible to tilt the armrest backwards and extract it. Generally on Althea models, the L-shaped armrest is chosen foldable and not removable. If pull-out is required, simply pull it upwards; there are no locking mechanisms. On Althea models the L-shaped armrest is never compatible with approval for car transport.
6.3. Anti-tip device ALTHEA can be equipped with left and/or right anti-tip devices. Never use the anti-tip devices as transit wheels. It is not their intended purpose. 6.3.1. Use of the revolving anti-tip device When not in use the anti-tip device is positioned horizontally under the frame: To activate the anti-tipping device, push the knob down to unlock it and rotate it to the working position.
Removing anti-tip • press button A • while holding down, pull out the telescopic tube 6.4. Lever-activated small wheels for narrow passages Lever-operated narrow passage small wheels are devices that make it easier to lift the wheelchair so that the rear wheels can be pulled out and the width of the wheelchair reduced.
6.5. Single drive The wheelchair could be configured with a single-sided double-pushing pushrim. The single-sided double pushrim system consists of a wheel that, in addition to having the normal pushing pushrim, has a second one with a smaller diameter; this second pushrim, via a connecting axle, transmits the rotational motion to the opposite wheel without the pushing rings.
6.6. Extended wheel plates Extended wheel base plates for the push wheels are designed to retract the rear wheel axle and thus increase the stability of the wheelchair under certain conditions. The retraction of the push wheel axle shifts the centre of gravity of the user and wheelchair complex forward, making the wheelchair more secure.
6.9. Elevating footrest Removable and elevating footplates are available for the various ALTHEA versions. For safety reasons, the elevating footplate must only be operated by the attendant. For safety reasons, the operation to return the footplate from elevated to rest must be carried out by the attendant by simultaneously operating the movement activation lever A with one hand and with the other hand accompanying the descent of the footplate.
6.10. Table The choice of a table requires the presence of armrests in the wheelchair configuration. The tables, which all have cutouts, are available in different materials and sizes: one size, 600 mm width Plastic (grey): S size, 500 mm width Soft padded: M size, 600 mm width L size, 700 mm width...
6.11. Swing away lateral supports ALTHEA can be equipped with swing-away lateral supports. The clamp that attaches to the backrest tube can be rotated to adjust lateral position and angle of containment. The padded support can also be independently adjusted in depth.
(or buttons in case of a double lock) before pulling the whole support upwards. 6.14. Pelvic band installation ALTHEA is designed to accommodate the installation of a pelvic band when necessary. The 45° pelvic strap is an accessory that can be selected at the time of ordering or added later.
ISO 7176-19:2008 and can therefore be used safely in motor vehicles. Some configurations, while available on order form, can prevent the wheelchair from being vehicle-compatible. Contact OFFCARR for further information. It is mandatory that all of the approved wheelchair components are installed by authorized personnel following the correct technical specifications.
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OFFCARR representative before any further use. No alterations or substitutions can be made to the wheelchair securement points or to structural and frame parts or components without consulting OFFCARR. When applying the occupant restraint, make sure to position the seatbelt buckle so that the release button is not in contact with the wheelchair components during transport or in case of a crash.
7.1. Attachment of the wheelchair for use within a motor vehicle: ALTHEA, ALTHEA.19, ARIEL ALTHEA, ALTHEA.19 and ARIEL are provided with four (4) attachment points A for a standard 4-point floor tie- down system, as shown in the figure. When connecting the wheelchair to a vehicle, connect the attachment system to the four marked connection points.
8.1. Replacement of tyre and inner tube 8.1.1. Removing the tyre and inner tube • Deflate the wheel • Insert a special lever between the rim and the shoulder of the tyre so that when the lever is overturned, the side of the tyre comes out (fig.
8.3. Replacing rear wheel bearings Disassembly • The bearings in the push wheels (B1 and B2) are press-fit. To extract them it is necessary to push them from the inside with the aid of an extractor or a pin punch and a hammer. Assembly •...
8.6. Quick extraction devices 8.6.1. Check The quick extraction axles are shipped already checked and adjusted. However, it is recommended to periodically verify the effectiveness of their operation. • Make sure that the X button is fully released once the wheel is correctly mounted.
9. Cleaning instruction Cleaning and disinfection procedure have to be performed exclusively by qualified personnel. Use appropriate eye/facial protection and protective gloves, during cleaning and disinfection procedure. In case of contamination with blood or other body fluids, the device has to be cleaned first and then disinfected as follows: Most of the time is convenient and more effective to remove the upholstery from the frame before to proceed with the cleaning and disinfection of either frame or upholstery.
3. Parts subject to normal wear and tear are not covered by the warranty, unless specific wear is caused by evident manufacturing fault. 4. During the warranty period OFFCARR may proceed at its own discretion to change or to repair the faulty parts.
14.1. Frame and seat depth adjustment The frame of ALTHEA model wheelchairs is adjustable in depth by 20 mm steps. The maximum adjustment is 60 The extension is adjusted by moving a pre-drilled telescopic insert that joins the front frame, crossbar and rear frame.
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14.1.2. Moving the rear frame backwards • Remove the parking brakes • remove the screws A that secure the spacer to the frame • remove the screws B connecting the front frame to the telescopic tube • remove the screws C that secure the crossbar support to the frame •...
14.2. Seat Length Adjustment Crossbar extension is generally performed only after extending the front frame (see 14.1.1, “Adjusting the front frame forwards”). • Remove screw A securing the extension B to the crossbar • Slide extension B forward by 20, 40, or 60 mm •...
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14.4.1. ALTHEA PLUS A and B screw holes for Althea Plus, range 30–40 C screw holes for Althea Plus, range 30–40 A and B screw holes for Althea Plus, range 32–46 C screw holes for Althea Plus, range 32–46 A and B screw holes for Althea Plus, range 38–52...
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A and B screw holes for Althea Plus, range 46–60 C screw holes for Althea Plus, range 46–60 14.4.2. ALTHEA.19 PLUS A and B screw holes for Althea.19 Plus, range 28–38 C screw holes for Althea.19 Plus, range 28–38 A and B screw holes for Althea.19 Plus, range 32–44...
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A and B screw holes for Althea.19 Plus, range 40–52 C screw holes for Althea.19 Plus, range 40–52 14.4.3. ARIEL PLUS A and B screw holes for Ariel Plus, range 24–32 C screw holes for Ariel Plus, range 24–32 A and B screw holes for Ariel Plus, range 28–38...
14.5. Rear seat height adjustment • Pull out the rear wheel by pressing the quick-release button • Lay the wheelchair on its side • Unscrew and remove screws B • Move the four cores (inside the tubes) to the desired new position •...
14.7. Rear wheels camber adjustment Generally, ALTHEA models are supplied with 0° camber, in which case the introduction of a camber of 1 to 4° requires the replacement of the bearing plates and bushes with the desired camber. If a camber other than 0° has already been requested or planned when ordering, it is sufficient to replace the bushes with others of the desired camber.
14.9. Brakes adjustment With the exception of drum brakes, the brakes provided are only suitable for parking of the aid and not for reducing the running speed. If the position of the rear wheel has been changed, the position of the brakes must be adjusted accordingly. Wheelchairs can be equipped with pull, push, scissor or composite brakes.
14.12. Seat upholstery adjustment and replacement The seat tension can be adjusted through the velcro straps: Seat tension adjustment: • Close the wheelchair • Remove cap D (by unscrewing the screw under the seat) • Remove the insert C • Adjust the width of the seat upholstery E •...
14.14. Height adjustable pushing handles adjustment If the wheelchair is equipped with height adjustable pushing handles it is possible to adjust them: • Turn the lever B so as to loosen the clamp attachment • Raise or lower the push handle to the desired position •...
14.17. Pushrim with rivets Replacement • Remove the wheels from the wheelchair • Completely unscrew the screws using a 4 mm hex key and remove the pushrim • A new pushrim can be attached if the spacer sequence is maintained Adjust the distance between pushrim and rim •...
14.19. Anti-tip device adjustment on curved rear frames The operating height of the anti-tip device is defined during installation. However, if necessary, it is possible to change its distance from the ground and thus vary the intervention threshold. 14.19.1. Ground clearance adjustment •...
Polycarbonate or plastic table with double attachment 14.23. Abductor assembly On ALTHEA wheelchairs, a pull-out abductor can be fitted. Follow the instructions below for fitting: • Mount the supplied blocks H on the side tubes of the frame • Loosen the screws A on the support bar without removing them •...
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OFFCARR srl reserves the right to make improvements and/or changes on its products, at any time without prior notice, with respect of the device features, suitability, certifications, warranty contract and availability of spare parts according to the terms of law.
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OFFCARR carrozzine ortopediche e sportive via dell’Artigianato II, 29 35010, Villa del Conte (PD), ITALIA T +39 049 9325733 // F +39 0499325734 commerciale@offcarr.com // offcarr.com UMALT_L_IT_EN_R1 Edizione 03.2024...
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