Table of Contents
Advertisement
10.8 Charger safety features
The chargers have features which prevent hazards or accidents
occurring as a result of connecting batteries the wrong way round,
overheating caused by fault conditions or attempting to charge wrong
voltage batteries.
The majority of charger sizes are electrically double insulated and no
earth connection is required. Some larger sizes may be electrically
earthed and this will be clearly stated on the label.
The 3 pin UK mains input plug contains a replaceable fuse. The rating
of this fuse is shown on the charger label. Always replace with the
same type and size of fuse as specified. Fitting of different fuses can
result in damage to the charger or failure of the charger to operate
properly.
If your charger has been specified for use in Continental Europe it
will contain a European two pin plug which does not have a fuse. In
this case the fuse is located in
the fascia panel of the charger.
10.9 Procedure
for
connecting the charger and
charging
1. The wheelchair can be
charged via the charger socket
at the front of the VR2 remote
control. (Fig. 89).
2. Connect the charger to the
mains supply by means of the
mains plug and switch on.
3. Do not leave the charger connected to the battery with the mains
disconnected or switch ed off. This could result in damage to your
battery being caused by deep discharge over a period of time.
4. Always switch off at the mains before disconnecting the batteries.
10.10 Charger safety and caution notes
1. The charger is designed for indoor use. Do not use outdoors or
expose to rain, snow, spray or moisture.
2. When buying replacement batteries or charger always consult your
Sunrise Medical service agent.
3. The charger may be used with other brands of Gel type batteries,
subject to written confirmation from the Technical Department of
Sunrise Medical.
10.11 The range of your vehicle
Most manufacturers of mobility products state the range of their
vehicles either in the sales literature or within the Owner's Manual.
The range stated sometimes differs from manufacturer to manufacturer
even though the battery size is the same. Sunrise Medical measure
the range of their vehicles in a consistent and uniform manner, but
variances still occur due to motor efficiencies and overall product
load weight.
The range figures are calculated to I.S.O. Standard 7176. Part 4:
Wheelchair Energy Consumption Theoretical Range
This test is carried out in controlled conditions with new, fully
charg ed batteries, on a level test surface and a user weight of
100 kg. The range figures stated should be seen as a theoretical
maximum and could be reduced if any single, or combination, of the
following circumstances occur:
1. User weight heavier than 100 kg.
2. Batteries whose age and condition are less than perfect.
3. The terrain is difficult e.g. very hilly, sloping, muddy ground,
gravel, grass, snow and ice.
4. The vehicle climbs kerbs regularly.
5. The ambient temperature is very hot or very cold.
6. Incorrect tyre pressures in one or more tyres.
7. Lots of start/stop driving.
060474
Fig. 89
8. Also thick pile carpets within the home can affect range.
9. Use of additional power consumption options (e.g. light, actuators,
etc.)
The battery sizes available on each Sunrise Medical product should
give sufficient range to cope with the majority of customer's
lifestyles.
10.12 Common battery statements
Over the years, battery technology has moved forward but,
unfortunately, some of the advice given on battery care has not. This
has resulted in a number of confused and at times contradictory
instructions on the 'best' way to care for your batteries.
This section will help to dispel some of these myths and legends.
To reduce the risk of damage to electric plug and cord, pull by the
plug rather than the cord when disconnecting the charger. Make sure
the cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over or
otherwise subjected to damage or stress. An extension cord should
not be used unless absolutely necessary. Use of an improper extension
cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. If any extension
cord must be used, make sure the pins on the plug of the extension
cord are the same number, size and shape as those of the plug on the
charger; and that the extension cord is properly wired and in good
electrical condition.
Important !
•
Do not rest a battery on top of the charger.
•
Do not stand the charger on a carpet or other soft surface. Always
place it on a hard flat surface.
•
Do not operate the charger if it has received a sharp blow, been
dropped or otherwise damaged in any way. Take it to a qualified
technician.
•
Do not disassemble charger; only have it repaired by the
manufacturers. Incorrect re-assembly may result in a risk of
electric shock or fire. To reduce the risk of an electric shock,
unplug the charger from the outlet before attempting any
maintenance or cleaning. Turning off the controls will not reduce
the risk.
•
Never place the charger directly above the battery being charg e d;
gases from the battery will corrode and damage the charger.
•
Never smoke or allow a spark or flame in the vicinity of battery or
charger. 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 effects and dangling objects when working on
the battery.
•
Never charge a frozen battery. A fully charged battery will rarely
freeze but the electrolyte of a discharged battery can freeze
at -9° Centigrade. Any battery that is suspected of being frozen
should be thawed completely before charging.
•
Never sit with the charger on your lap when charging your
batteries.
•
The charger casing will get hot during its normal operation.
10.13 Battery warranty
Battery warranties are subject to periods set by the manufacturers.
However, most of these warranties are subject to a wear and tear
clause, and if you genuinely wear out your batteries in 6 months, it
will not be possible to obtain a replacement under warranty.
31
Quickie SALSA
Advertisement
Table of Contents
