Power Wheelchair | KARMA Medical https://www.karmamedical.com A Better Wheelchair, A Better Fit! Wed, 15 Mar 2023 07:25:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.karmamedical.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/cropped-Logo_webicon-32x32.png Power Wheelchair | KARMA Medical https://www.karmamedical.com 32 32 KARMA Top-Line Mid-Wheel Drive Power Wheelchairs https://www.karmamedical.com/2022/09/karma-top-line-mid-wheel-drive-power-wheelchairs/ Thu, 08 Sep 2022 09:03:22 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=43995 In the previous blog, we talked about the benefits of a mid-wheel drive power wheelchair. In this blog, we will share KARMA’s top mid-wheel drive power wheelchair, including the recently launched Morgan M Versus.  Morgan M Versus The Morgan M Versus is an ideal wheelchair for users with medium to high clinical needs who need [...]

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In the previous blog, we talked about the benefits of a mid-wheel drive power wheelchair. In this blog, we will share KARMA’s top mid-wheel drive power wheelchair, including the recently launched Morgan M Versus

Morgan M Versus

The Morgan M Versus is an ideal wheelchair for users with medium to high clinical needs who need seating components to suit their changing condition. The Morgan M Versus is easy to upgrade and therefore suitable, for example, school rental programs where the components can be adapted to suit the user’s needs.

Rehab Versus seating system

This indoor-outdoor power wheelchair is equipped with one of the most versatile seating systems on the market: the Versus seating system. The Versus seating system offers an extensive range of seat dimension adjustability and integration of up to four power positioning functions. The Versus seating system is also compatible with after-market backrests such as NXT, Lewis, and V-Trak. 

The Versus seating system is equipped with side rails that are compatible with KARMA’s Lectus power wheelchair series accessories, as well as most third-party manufacturers. The capacity to easily upgrade or reconfigure Versus to meet specific user needs makes it a practical and sustainable wheelchair choice.​

Power functions

The Morgan M Versus is capable of: 

    • 300 mm Power Lift – Allows the user to interact with the world around them and interact with peers at eye level. 
    • 45° Power Tilt – Relieves pressure on hips.
    • 136° Power Recline – Increases sitting tolerance but allowing the user to stretch and rests without having to move from the wheelchair. 
    • Biomechanical Power Legrests – The legrests extend with the legs to ease pressure on the knees. 

MID Lectus

The MID Lectus is a powerful mid-wheel power wheelchair ideal for indoor and outdoor use. The 6-wheel suspension system of mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs mean that the user is seated above the drive wheels, which allows for a more intuitive drive. Therefore, MID Lectus is an ideal for first time power wheelchair users to get used to the controls.

Incredible indoor maneuverability

The MID Lectus is ideal for wheelchair users with limited indoor living space. With an overall width of just 60 CM, and turning small turning radius of 64 CM, elevators and narrow doorways are no longer a problem. 

The MID Lectus is not only made for excellent indoor transportation, but it is also equipped with a highly configurable rehab seat that can be altered and adjusted to meet the needs of the user. Additional accessories can be added via the rails on the side and back of the chair for added support. 

Power functions

The MID Lectus is capable of: 

    • 300 mm Power Lift – Allows the user to interact with the world around them and interact with peers at eye level. 
    • 45° Power Tilt – Relieves pressure on hips.
    • 170° Power Recline – Increases sitting tolerance but allowing the user to stretch and rests without having to move from the wheelchair. 
    • Biomechanical Power Legrests – The legrests extend with the legs to ease pressure on the knees. 

Both top-line KARMA Mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs are great choices for first time wheelchair users. Both chairs have their own benefits, therefore the user should choose the chair that most suits them and their needs. Contact your local KARMA Medical wheelchair dealer to try these chairs for yourself! 

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The Benefits of a Mid-Wheel Drive Power Wheelchair https://www.karmamedical.com/2022/09/the-benefits-of-a-mid-wheel-drive-power-wheelchair/ Fri, 02 Sep 2022 09:12:11 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=43984 A mid-wheel drive wheelchair is an excellent choice for users looking for a chair that is both suited for indoors and outdoors. It’s easy and safe to use in order for the user to achieve freedom and independence.  Excellent indoor performance Mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs have the tightest turning radius of all the power wheelchairs. [...]

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A mid-wheel drive wheelchair is an excellent choice for users looking for a chair that is both suited for indoors and outdoors. It’s easy and safe to use in order for the user to achieve freedom and independence. 

Excellent indoor performance

Mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs have the tightest turning radius of all the power wheelchairs. The turning axis is at the center of the wheelchair, so the user can make a full 360° turn without any extra maneuvers. Often users feel restricted in their homes with narrow doorways or elevators, however the tight turning radius and narrow base of a mid-wheel drive make it otherwise possible.

Safe and secure

A mid-wheel drive power wheelchair is composed of 2 central drive wheels with 2 casters in the front and 2 caster wheels at the back. This set up creates a great, stable base and prevents the wheelchair from tipping either forward or backward. The 6 wheels also provide increased stability and traction on a majority of surfaces. The 6 wheels are great at climbing obstacles, traveling inclines, over curbs and generally small bumps. 

First time power wheelchair users

Mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs have been said to be the most intuitive to drive out of the front, rear, and mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs. The user is set directly above the drive wheels, so navigating and turning are more intuitive. Being sat directly above the drive wheels also helps the user feel safe and secure because the center of gravity is in the middle. 

As the mid-wheel drive is more intuitive, it’s great for users with perceptual or cognitive impairment because the drive wheel and center of gravity is inline with the user’s head. 

Best of both worlds

A lot of people describe a mid-wheel drive wheelchair is the best of both worlds, i.e., front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. The mid-wheel drive has stability, power, comfort, and intuitive navigation. KARMA Medical have a few choices of mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs, including the newly launched Morgan M Versus. If you are unsure or want to try a KARMA power wheelchair for yourself, contact your local KARMA Medical wheelchair dealer.

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Best Lightweight Power KARMA Wheelchairs for Travelling https://www.karmamedical.com/2022/08/best-lightweight-power-karma-wheelchairs-for-travelling/ Tue, 09 Aug 2022 07:54:54 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=42518 There are a variety of lightweight power wheelchairs on the market, but what will be the best lightweight power KARMA wheelchair that would meet your needs? These are KARMA’s top picks for wheelchair users that need a power wheelchair companion! Whether it’s for a short day trip or you plan to travel around the world, [...]

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There are a variety of lightweight power wheelchairs on the market, but what will be the best lightweight power KARMA wheelchair that would meet your needs? These are KARMA’s top picks for wheelchair users that need a power wheelchair companion! Whether it’s for a short day trip or you plan to travel around the world, we’ve got you covered…

Compact, foldable, and lightweight

eFlexx is a folding power wheelchair that is part of the Flexx wheelchair series. The removable battery options make eFlexx an ideal travel partner for air travel for when the batteries need to be removed at check-in or to be stored for travel. Depending on the choice of battery, eFlexx has the power to drive up to 20 km. The flip back armrests and removable swinging away footrests make it safe and easy for the user to get in and out of the wheelchair. Being part of the Flexx wheelchair series means that eFlexx is compatible with a wide range of accessories for a perfect wheelchair fit. 

Affordable and agile

Ergo Nimble, as the name suggests, is a power wheelchair that is lightweight and easy to use. This affordable wheelchair is extremely accessible for usevrs looking for a power wheelchair to travel with the patented S-ergo seating system. The foldable frame makes the Ergo Nimble easy to transport and store which make it an ideal power wheelchair for travelling! 

Stand out and reach new heights

The Ergo Stand is a compact power wheelchair with the ability to fully stand. The Ergo Stand has excellent indoor and outdoor performance with the ultimate comfort of the patented S-ergo seating system. If the wheelchair user has been given the okay by a doctor to use a standing wheelchair, the long list of health benefits are just the tip of the iceberg, as well as giving the user freedom and independence. The compact and adjustable design make Ergo Stand a great travel companion to encourage independence. 

New and improved

The Blazer was relaunched in 2021 with a new exceptionally narrow base and exceptional driving range of 26 KM that make it ideal for both use outdoors and indoors. The foldable backrest (Sling seat) make Blazer easier to store and transport. The Blazer is compatible with tilt-in-space and recline power features, ideal for long days to find comfort. Blazer has also been crash test approved, which means that it can be used as a seat in a motor vehicle safely. 

Power wheelchairs are great at promoting independence and offering the user freedom to travel where and when they want with little effort, however, not every user is suitable for every chair. It is important to consider the needs of the user as well as the convenient features that come with a power wheelchair. If a power wheelchair is not convenient when travelling, you can also consider a lightweight manual KARMA wheelchair for your adventures!

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KARMA’s Innovation; Batteries and Range in KARMA Wheelchairs https://www.karmamedical.com/2021/10/karmas-innovation-batteries-karma-wheelchairs/ Wed, 13 Oct 2021 03:17:44 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=36293 This week, as part of our Innovation series of KARMA blogs, we chat with Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA to discuss the considerations around batteries and the range of wheelchair – and what are the different things that can impact a decision on what batteries can be used. You may think that [...]

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This week, as part of our Innovation series of KARMA blogs, we chat with Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA to discuss the considerations around batteries and the range of wheelchair – and what are the different things that can impact a decision on what batteries can be used.

You may think that you’d just put the biggest batteries with the longest range possible into a chair, but what other things do we have to think about? And how could this change in the future? 

Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA

Why is battery range important?

Range gives an individual the freedom of movement during the day, which in turn means more kilometers to drive. And also the battery range takes care of the use of all other power functions on your wheelchair.

What do you have to weigh up when thinking about range? Cost/Weight?

There are two main components creating range: the batteries and the drive motors. 

You can have large capacity batteries, but if the drive motors have a low efficiency, your drive range can still be small. High efficiency motors in combination with high capacity batteries create the largest drive range. 

When it comes to weight: weight is not always something negative. Large batteries may be heavy, but they also create a lower centre of gravity for the wheelchair, and this improves stability. As an example, if you need a wheelchair with standing function or wheelchair with seat lift, if the chassis is heavier this will give you more stability.

What are they made of?

Traditional batteries are made out of lead or acid constructions, newer technologies mean that batteries can be made out of several different Lithium Ion or polymer combinations. 

How have batteries changed over time?

Battery technology had been standing still for a long time…. then the new technology batteries were used on smartphones and the development of new battery technology sped up.

From smartphones, the batteries became larger and were used on power tools. Then it was the e-bike and lately, the car industry embraced electric cars and batteries. Since that moment the industry started to develop the technology rapidly. The wheelchair industry worldwide has always been a small industry compared to the car industry, so we weren’t capable of speeding up technology. Ever since the car industry has embraced the electric vehicle, the wheelchair industry can start to benefit as well from these new developments. Hopefully, in time, the new battery technology will become more affordable too.  

Changing the battery on an EVO chair can be done with the user still sitting in the chair!

What other considerations do you need to have when it comes to batteries?

It is all down to what an individual’s needs from their own wheelchair. Do they need to drive long distances each day? Do they use it only indoors? Do they want to take the wheelchair in a car? All aspects of your daily use of the wheelchair can have an influence on the type or model of powered wheelchair that will fit your needs.

Where do you think battery technology will change in the future?

Batteries will become more and more efficient. So more energy per cubic volume. What to do with that efficiency? It depends, how the other components on a wheelchair develop. If the drive motors will also become more efficient, by definition you need less energy per mile driven. Therefore the batteries could become smaller, or the same size but with a much bigger driving range… It all depends on the demands of the user.  

You can check out the full range of KARMA wheelchairs and find out more about our unique power functions on the KARMA website.

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KARMA’s Innovation; Appearance Is Just As Important as Function https://www.karmamedical.com/2021/10/karmas-innovation-appearance-is-just-as-important-as-function/ Wed, 06 Oct 2021 03:10:28 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=36281 As part of our series of KARMA blogs, where we chat with Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA, to get under the skin of what truly makes a KARMA chair, and the processes and considerations that go into every aspect of producing our wheelchairs. Today we discuss the importance and considerations when it [...]

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As part of our series of KARMA blogs, where we chat with Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA, to get under the skin of what truly makes a KARMA chair, and the processes and considerations that go into every aspect of producing our wheelchairs.

Today we discuss the importance and considerations when it comes to the aesthetics of a chair, most notably in our EVO range. Are looks just as important as functionality?

Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA

Aesthetic of Wheelchairs

So Eric, how important is the look of a wheelchair? And why?

The wheelchair to me is a part of the person you are. You personally pick your clothes, your hair style, and also your wheelchair. It is part of you. So the design should fit your personal taste. If you wear fancy clothes, you do not want to sit in a wheelchair that looks old fashioned, do you?     

What processes do you go through when designing a chair?

We set the boundaries for size, functionality, but also about looks. It’s not just a sum of practical parts, but about designing wheelchairs where all the parts, accessories and options work in harmony with the design. 

Often you see a wheelchair which looks like a Christmas tree with lots of different materials, parts and colours where the individual is hidden behind the chair. We make sure there is a harmonised design of all the parts and accessories. This in turn creates a wheelchair which is more in the background and the user is the center of attention, as they should be.

An early concept design of the EVO chairs.

Has the process evolved over the years?

Oh yes, definitely. I do remember in the early days wheelchairs were made out of chromed tube frames with blue leatherette upholstery. The plastic covers were often made out of glass reinforced fibre. We have come a long way from there. Nowadays we use modern cloth that can breathe, or water repellent cloth that also can still breath. The plastic covers are made out of recyclable materials. Colours have been added to give it an element of personalisation. We have moved away from a “hospitalish look” to more automotive look. 

How would you describe the look of KARMA chairs? Do you take inspiration from anything else?

I would describe them as modern, automotive-ish, and harmonised. Of course design is a matter of taste. Some markets prefer individual colours to match more with the user’s own taste. Other markets where chairs are owned by the government or health insurance companies may prefer a more neutral look, so the chairs can be reused for other users as well. We can offer both options and even individual requests are possible.   

Once a user came to me and said, “Do you know what came into my mind when I saw your wheelchair designs?” They look like lamborghinis… 🙂

You can check out the full range of KARMA wheelchairs and find out more about our unique power functions on the KARMA website.

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KARMA’s Innovation; Testing and Reliability of KARMA Wheelchairs https://www.karmamedical.com/2021/09/karmas-innovation-testing-and-reliability-of-karma-wheelchairs/ Mon, 27 Sep 2021 02:55:25 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=36268 In our latest KARMA Innovation blog with Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA, Eric van Olst, we look to understand the importance and processes involved in testing a new KARMA chair in manufacturing, and how this can positively impact the reliability and overall quality of the chair, the safety of the product and the brand. Testing [...]

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In our latest KARMA Innovation blog with Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA, Eric van Olst, we look to understand the importance and processes involved in testing a new KARMA chair in manufacturing, and how this can positively impact the reliability and overall quality of the chair, the safety of the product and the brand.

Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA

Testing and Reliability 

How important is testing when it comes to creating and developing KARMA chairs?

Very important, as we first need to comply with the international regulations for product safety. We also test according to our own quality requirements and procedures, to ensure all components and products are of a good quality and are reliable. We do indoor testing in our own testing department as well as external testing institutes like TüV and Crashtest facilities.    

What tests are conducted and why are they important?

We do test for dynamic and static stability, material fatigue tests, fire retarding tests, biocompatibility of the material which are in contact with the user’s skin, EMC (radio radiation) test and even a crashtest (where the situation is simulated as being a wheelchair user, in an occupied position, transported in a taxi van). But also, we are doing additional tests according to our own testing requirements. As an example, we test power seat functions on long testing cycles, much longer than the international requirements are asking for. Also we have a real live rough road test where our engineers are driving the wheelchairs through rough roads to ensure everything is strong, safe and lasts for a long period.

The EVO chairs are approved for transportation in accordance with ISO 7176-19. This means it is suitable to be used as a seat in a motor vehicle for transportation.

How long does the process take, from production through to testing and delivery?

Depending on the complexity of a product it takes from prototype to production up to 1 to 2 years. 

What key innovations have we seen in KARMA chairs over the years that have helped improve reliability?

KARMA focuses on high quality durable components, like drive motors, actuators, electronics. We have a special focus on service friendliness of our wheelchairs. A power wheelchair is 10 to 12 times as intensively used each day compared to a car, but our cars are sent to a dealer for a check up on regular bases, whereas often the wheelchairs are driven until they break down.

We know wheelchairs will have some technical issues due to wear and tear, and will need some repairs every now and then. 

At KARMA we say: “We provide mobility solutions, not wheelchairs only”.  

We focus a lot on making repairs and maintenance as easy as possible for the service engineers. With this in mind we are sure the repair is short and the user really can depend on KARMA wheelchairs and the service, to provide a reliable mobility solution.  

You can check out the full range of KARMA wheelchairs and find out more about our unique power functions on the KARMA website.

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KARMA’s Innovation; Power Functions in KARMA Wheelchairs https://www.karmamedical.com/2021/09/karmas-innovation-power-functions-in-karma-wheelchairs/ Mon, 20 Sep 2021 03:37:47 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=36245 As part of the latest series of KARMA blogs, we are going to be speaking with Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA, to get a better understanding of the the processes and considerations that go into every aspect of making our chairs. From the design and testing, right through to the features and [...]

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As part of the latest series of KARMA blogs, we are going to be speaking with Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA, to get a better understanding of the the processes and considerations that go into every aspect of making our chairs. From the design and testing, right through to the features and battery life.

We start today with an interview about the importance of the power functions of the KARMA Evo chairs, the features that enable our KARMA chairs to go from laying flat all the way to standing.

Eric van Olst, Chief Innovations Officer at KARMA

Why are the power functions so important?

A human is not designed to stay in a position for a long time, so we tend to move to keep our body fit and well conditioned. The average person sits still for around 30 seconds in a chair. Then he/she needs to move in some way or another. Someone with a disability might not have the ability to move by themselves, so the seat of a wheelchair moves to aid the function of the body. 

The backrest recline, leg rest adjustment and seat tilt help to keep a comfortable seating position and provide the user with good support. A seat tilt can be useful in other situations, such as driving on curbs or down slopes. By tilting the seat, the seating position provides more stability. This could be important when driving downhill, where the wheelchair would be leaning forward, the user can compensate for that negative seat angle by using the seat tilt. 

A seat lift can give you more freedom of movement. So it adds a third dimension to the horizontal movements, it enables the user to lower or raise themselves in the vertical position. This can be helpful when shopping in the supermarket, or with friends at the pub, – ensuring the user can be at eye level with their friends. At home it can help when looking to transfer from the chair into a bed or other seat, by positioning the chair at the same height as the other surface.

EVO Altus standing power wheelchair has three different ways to stand up: sit-to-stand, recline-to-stand, and lie-to-stand.

How do you make the decision as to what movements and functionality to put into the chairs’ mechanisms?

It all depends on the demands of the user. We always think in a “Lego” mindset. We create a “brick” which can be added or left out. So that way, we are able to add functionality when required by the user. Another factor is of course budget. The more budget you are able to spend, the more functionality you can put into the wheelchair. A backrest recline which has a range of 35 degrees angle often does the job for all, but sometimes, if you need to lay down, 90 degrees of shear recline is required. That movement is technically more advanced and therefore can be more expensive. 

Have the power functions changed over the years?

In the early days it was just a simple motor which moved a part of the wheelchair along a point of rotation. Nowadays, we get feedback on each power function. It tells the electronics what the position of each seat function is. In some cases, we can even store that position as being the starting point or endpoint, so we are able to make it more “intelligent”. Some power functions also have biomechanical movement or added shear reduction, for example when you recline the backrest of a Lectus seat, the backrest stays in the right position to the user’s backrest. There is hardly any shear. 

What are the key features of the KARMA power functions?

For our higher-end Lectus LR and Altus chairs, we have biomechanical leg rests with feedback mechanisms and memory. On the Altus chair we think we have the smoothest standing curve on the market. It moves like it’s one curve, smooth and relatively fast.

Is there anything that is currently difficult to accommodate for what you are working on? What more could we look to do?

We are constantly working on new technologies to improve the product being even more user friendly and service friendly. New computer and internet technology will help us there. 

You can check out the full range of KARMA wheelchairs and find out more about our unique power functions on the KARMA website.

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How To Choose a Power Wheelchair Driving Controller https://www.karmamedical.com/2021/07/how-to-choose-a-power-wheelchair-driving-controller/ Thu, 15 Jul 2021 09:34:34 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=32317 When choosing power wheelchair driving, it is imperative that the controller interface should match the cognitive abilities of the user. The user shouldn’t have to adapt to the requirements of the controller.  What to consider when choosing power wheelchair driving controls? When a therapist is assessing the user for a power wheelchair controller they will [...]

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When choosing power wheelchair driving, it is imperative that the controller interface should match the cognitive abilities of the user. The user shouldn’t have to adapt to the requirements of the controller. 

What to consider when choosing power wheelchair driving controls?

When a therapist is assessing the user for a power wheelchair controller they will look for the users:

1. Motor control

2. Range of Motion (ROM)

3. Strength

4. Endurance

Motor Control 

Motor control determines how well users can activate and coordinate their muscles and limbs to carry out a motor skill or a precise movement to perform a specific movement.

Range of Motion (ROM)

A therapist will also assess a user’s fine motor skills which are smaller, exact movements (the kind needed to operate a joystick), unlike gross motor skills which are used for larger actions such as waving. Fine motor skills require awareness, planning, coordination, muscle strength, and “normal” sensation. 

Strength

Some disabilities come with a level of spasticity that damages the nerves in the body. The muscles can become stiff, waste away (atrophy), or get muscle fibrosis. This may result in the user not having a lot of strength to operate a wheelchair control. The damage to the muscle will then lead to the user experiencing a limited range of motion. 

An example of a limited range of motion is one of our users, Mohamed, who is using KP-25.2. Originally the joystick was located too far forward and he couldn’t reach it without disrupting his seating position. You can read his full story of the adaptations that were made to Mohamed’s wheelchair on the KARMA website.

Endurance

The user’s endurance should also be taken into account when choosing a power wheelchair controller for the user. Will they sustain fatigue from having to carry out the same action over and over? 

There is a wide range of controls available for power wheelchair user’s to accommodate all of the above. In this blog, we will cover the 3 basic power wheelchair controls; Proportional Control, Digital Control, and Attendant Control.

The 3 basic power wheelchair controls

Proportional Control (e.g. standard joystick)

The joystick is the standard driving control found on power wheelchairs. Joystick controls offer full directional ( 360°) control and speed control. There is also a range of handles available to accommodate the user: 

  • A round handle is available for users with reduced muscle tone in the hand.
  • The T-Shaped handle is for users with forearm pronation. 
  • The U-Shaped handle is for users who don’t have a good hand grip but have good shoulder and elbow control.

The placement of the joystick can also be adapted to suit the user, literally, it can be placed anywhere between their head and their toes! A midline control is available for users who have muscle weakness or shorter arms and cannot reach the standard joystick location. 

The joystick can also be programmed to meet the needs of the user. The speed, acceleration, and deceleration can all be personalized. 

Digital Control (non-proportional) 

These controls are designed for users who lack the fine motor skills to operate a standard joystick. The wheelchair manufacturer can customize what each switch or control does. The only downside is that there is only one speed available. 

Non-proportional controls can also be added for those user’s also using a joystick. The buttons and switches can be used to operate the seat functions to ensure that the user has consistent access to the controls. 

A great example of a wheelchair user who had a wheelchair adapted to his (lack of) fine motor skills is Stephen Hawking. Hawking used just one switch to control all of the functions on his tablet and an IR sensor in his glasses that detected his cheek muscle movements. Source: How Stephen Hawking’s wheelchair works

Attendant Control

Another type of control available for wheelchair users is the attendant control. This control gives the caregiver the ability to control the wheelchair without needing to push it. This option is great if the caregiver is elderly.

Summary

In conclusion, there is a solution for every user who needs a power wheelchair. Whether it is for an elderly user who needs a power wheelchair to go shopping, an office worker who needs to travel around the city, or someone in rehabilitation with a spinal cord injury who needs the chair to do most of the work. Controls can be adjusted to make it usable for each wheelchair user.

Contact your local KARMA dealer to find out the best wheelchair controller for your needs. No matter what their motor function level, we will always do our best to cater to each user in order to improve their quality of life. 

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Power Tilting, Reclining, Lifting, and Standing Electric Wheelchairs https://www.karmamedical.com/2021/05/power-tilting-reclining-lifting-and-standing-electric-wheelchairs/ Thu, 13 May 2021 03:25:18 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=31132 In the previous 2 blogs, we talked about the types of power wheelchair seats that are available, and the range of outdoor and indoor chassis. Whilst these two things are key features of the power wheelchairs, extra features can aid a person’s rehabilitation and their goal of being totally independent in a wheelchair. Features such [...]

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In the previous 2 blogs, we talked about the types of power wheelchair seats that are available, and the range of outdoor and indoor chassis. Whilst these two things are key features of the power wheelchairs, extra features can aid a person’s rehabilitation and their goal of being totally independent in a wheelchair. Features such as power recline, tilt, lift, and standing will all be explored today.

Why would a user need a power wheelchair? 

If you recall from the first blog, the purpose for using a power wheelchair can be to improve the users daily life. Another purpose for using a power wheelchair is that it is an aid for rehabilitation, used with the guidance of a therapist. All of the power functions discussed in this blog will not only enhance the day to day tasks of any power wheelchair user but some of these power functions are necessary for user’s to maintain both their physical health and mental health. 

The power lifting function means that users can interact with their peers at eye level. Source: MID Lectus

Manual reclining power wheelchair 

The Captain seat and Sling seat are able to manually recline, however this feature requires the user to have good trunk control. The option to be able to recline is great for users who want to stretch their hip joints or relax in their wheelchair.

Some Karma wheelchairs are available with the choice of a manual recline seat, the Captain seat. Source: Morgan Captain

Power reclining power wheelchair 

The reclining function allows the user to relieve the siting pressure and spread the weight from the user’s buttocks onto the back. This is one method to prevent pressure sores. Being able to rest in the wheelchair is another bonus. If the user wants to lie down, they can independently recline into this position to rest and stretch the abdomen.

EVO Altus can power recline from (-8°) – 80° so that the user can lay down completely flat. 

Power tilt-in-space electric wheelchair 

The tilting action is similar to that of a rocking chair. The user’s hip angle doesn’t change but the user is tilted backward. This movement is a great way for those users who can’t open up their hip angle, to relieve the pressure often felt sitting in a wheelchair for long stretches of time.

EVO Altus can power tilt from 2° – 47° so that the user can shift their body weight to prevent pressure sores. 

Power standing power wheelchair 

Giving wheelchair users the ability to stand not only benefits their physical health but also their mental health. The independence that these wheelchair users gain can be explored further in “The Benefits of Standing Wheelchair Mobility”.

One way to stand up on the EVO Altus is from the laying down position. Always consult a therapist before using a standing wheelchair as this function is not suitable for all users. 

Power lifting power wheelchair

The power lift function can make small everyday activities easier. Whether it’s raising the seat a little higher to meet the height of a table or communicating with others at the same eye level, the powerlifting function is a great feature not just for everyday life but also for social functions.

Having the option to match the user’s eye level will make social interactions feel more equal. Source: KARMA Medical YouTube | EVO Altus – Product Video

Summary

After learning about all of the different power functions, you can understand how having even just one or two of these functions will improve the life of a wheelchair user. Not only are there physical health benefits, but also mental health. Want to know more about power wheelchairs?  Learn about the different controls available for KARMA power wheelchairs, and how there is something for everyone.

Keep Reading

The post Power Tilting, Reclining, Lifting, and Standing Electric Wheelchairs first appeared on KARMA Medical.]]>
What Are the Different KARMA Power Wheelchair Chassis? https://www.karmamedical.com/2021/05/what-are-the-different-karma-power-wheelchair-chassis/ Tue, 04 May 2021 02:48:01 +0000 https://www.karmamedical.com/?p=31087 In the previous blog, we talked about how to choose a power wheelchair seat. Be sure to go back and read that blog first as you will learn about the different things to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. In this blog, we will introduce the different chassis available at KARMA. The wheelchair chassis you [...]

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In the previous blog, we talked about how to choose a power wheelchair seat. Be sure to go back and read that blog first as you will learn about the different things to consider when choosing a power wheelchair. In this blog, we will introduce the different chassis available at KARMA.

The wheelchair chassis you choose will depend on your lifestyle

Outdoor Long-Range Power Wheelchair (Saber

A great example of a wheelchair that is designed for the user who depends on their power wheelchair for long distances is, Saber. Saber has been extensively tested for off-road travel and safety. Users can travel for long periods of time without having to worry about battery life. The Tilt-in-Space and reclining power functions make Saber a wheelchair more tolerable for long term users. Being able to change positions at the touch of a button makes the user more comfortable and less susceptible to secondary injuries such as pressure sores.

Outdoor/Indoor Power Wheelchair (Leon

Leon’s rear wheel drive is designed for outdoor use, geared for speed without compromising on stability or control. More active users will enjoy Leon’s long driving range (45 KM) and 4-wheel independent suspension. Leon can be equipped with either the Sling, Captain, or KISS seat. All depending on the user’s needs. 

Indoor/Outdoor Power Wheelchair (Morgan

The mid-wheel power wheelchair is ideal for indoor and outdoor use and suitable for living situations with limited space. Buildings with elevators can often restrict wheelchair users however Morgan’s small turning radius (64 CM) and overall width (60 CM) eliminates that problem. 

The 6 wheels provide sturdy suspension for those journeys over uneven roads. Morgan’s intuitive driving is ideal for those who might have difficulty driving a powered wheelchair or joystick. Morgan can be equipped with the Sling, Captain, or KISS seating system.

Indoor/Outdoor Narrow Power Wheelchair (Blazer

The recently updated Blazer has a total width of just 58 cm making it highly maneuverable in small spaces. Blazer has the option of a Captain seat or a Sling seat, depending on the needs of the user. 

The Captain seat can be comparable to a car seat, it requires the user to have good trunk control to the manual recline. The Sling seat is able to offer the user power Tilt-in-Space action as well as compact down to make storage and transportation more convenient

Short-Range Power Wheelchair (eFlexx

A short-range wheelchair like eFlexx is ideal for users who need a power wheelchair to travel short distances, for example, to the office. Compared to most power wheelchairs on the market, eFlexx is considered a lightweight wheelchair because it doesn’t have a large chassis. eFlexx is also foldable with additional features such as flip-back armrests and detachable leg rests. eFlexx has a removable battery, so in the event that the battery runs out, the user can operate eFlexx like a manual wheelchair whilst the battery is charging. Alternatively, the user can engage the power function when they get tired, like a backup.

Summary 

Depending on what kind of lifestyle the user has will determine the type of chassis they need. 

  • Will the user be relying on their power wheelchair all day, every day? 
  • Do they need a power wheelchair only when they need to travel a little further than usual, and don’t want to get tired? 
  • Do they need to maneuver through narrow city curbs, buildings, and elevators?
  • Do they need the addition of power functions like tilting and reclining?

In the next blog, we will talk in more detail about the different power positioning wheelchairs.

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