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.