Wheelchair and Components have become far more durable and sophisticated with technological advancements and novel designs
Wheelchairs define mobility for
people with limited mobility. Wheelchairs are classified by their function,
size, and components. Seat width, height, and wheels type are the primary
descriptors of wheelchair size, while safety and weight capability are
considerations when selecting a specific size. Wheelchairs may be powered by
batteries (electrical or mechanical) or the user or service provider. Most
mobility devices are constructed from lightweight, molded plastics. Wheelchair
frames are almost always made of lightweight aluminum with a solid rubber outer
cover. Many wheelchair manufacturers provide a choice of armrests and footrests
to customize the comfort of the chair.
The most common wheelchair
and components found in a manual wheelchair are the seats, footrest,
armrests/footrests, and/or pedals. The seat is almost always designed with a
high back or high top. The armrests/footrests are typically adjustable or
removable to provide comfort. The pedal carriers are either attached to the
bottom of the chair or available as an add-on accessory. Wheelchair wheels are
usually self-cleaning or can be maintained by using non-abrasive cleaners and
polishes.
Wheelchair wheels are generally of
one of two types namely electric or pneumatic. Although electric wheels are
more commonly used in electric wheelchairs, pneumatic wheels are often seen on
manual wheelchairs where they provide increased maneuverability. Typically, the
tires of a manual wheelchair have two layers namely an inner edge and an outer
edge. Wheelchair wheels with two layers are very popular and almost always used
in manual wheelchairs. Wheelchair cushions come in many different shapes and
sizes and are made from many different materials. Foam-covered seat pads and
sponge-covered foam pads are commonly used in wheelchair cushions.
Seats can be fitted to the top of a
wheelchair frame with strips of fabric or plastic. Most cushions will allow for
the expansion and contraction of body weight and will conform to any contours
of the user. Recently, in March 2020, Invacare Corporation launched Invacare
AVIVA FX Power Wheelchair.
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