Module 10 - Power Mobility

A power wheelchair is comprised of the power base and the seating system. Click to download sample form for power wheelchair assessment, and power wheelchair assessment form with prompts.

The power base includes the drive system, wheels and batteries:

1. Drive system

• 'Control device' or 'input device' specifies the velocity or directional command. They may be:
  • proportional - able to accelerate and decelerate, such as a joystick, 'mini-joystick' and attendant control joystick
  • non-proportional or digital - digital switches such as sip and puff, head array

• Controllers or 'modules' adjust the wheelchair responsiveness to user commands such as speed, acceleration, deceleration and tremor dampening:
  • electronic package - integrates data from all elements of system from input/control devices to motors, provides feedback to user and allows performance adjustment through programming
  • power controller directs energy to the motor and to control steering
  • multi-actuator module may be needed for power seating functions
  • specialty control input modules and enhanced display units may be required for specialty control device
  • environmental control modules can integrate or replace the environmental control unit using the latest technology
• Motor:
  • the motor should support the weight and demands of the user in their environment
  • options of gearless brushless, 4 or  2 poles motors
  • torque and speed options are available
• Steering system:
  • An advanced steering system that allows course correction, enabling the user to drive on uneven terrain without deviating appreciably from the chosen course
  • clients who use non-proportional control device such as sip and puff will benefit from a course correction system on sloped pavement and kerb ramps
• Brakes - parking, running and automatic brakes