Development Of The Electric Wheel Chair

The first wheelchair is believed to have been developed in China in the 6th century. The first major technological advances are attributed to two engineers Harry Jennings and Herbert Everest after Everest suffered a broken neck in a mining accident ion 1933. Jennings and Everest combined to create a lightweight, collapsible wheelchair. The pair launched the first mass-producers of wheelchairs. The “x brace” concept developed by the pair is still in use today.

The advancements in the modern-day power wheelchairs have greatly benefited today’s disabled patients. As a result, global demand for the chairs has soared making power wheelchair manufacturing a truly international endeavor.

Power wheelchairs are categorized as lightweight or heavyweight. The heavyweight chairs are designed to accommodate patients and equipment that exceed 300 pounds. Many of today’s options can only be implemented on heavyweight chairs.

The less expensive lightweight power chairs use a two-pole motor while the more expensive heavyweight chairs use a four-pole motor. Heavyweight chairs are designed to provide many more options than lightweight chairs. Users can choose from various front or rear wheel drive options, which are usually determined by the environment in which the chair will be used.

Passive Standing Technology

Due to the many advanced features and technology used in power wheelchairs, the industry has been challenged to standardize equipment. In 2003, the United States passed legislation, mandating manufacturers to improve transparency, internal education and training techniques in order to achieve required certifications.

The newest power wheelchair option enables users to achieve a passive standing position. This feature has comfort and health benefits for the users. Some of the health benefits include:

* Reduced seating pressure * Decreased bone deterioration * Bladder normalcy * Improved circulation * Improved muscular conditions * Overall improved functional conditions

Demand for these passive standing power wheelchairs currently outweighs supply so interested persons should make arrangements to meet with manufacturers as soon as possible.

Technology has also been used by manufacturers to allow the users to adjust the seating tilt as well as the level of the chair. Computerized enhancements have eased the navigational capabilities of the power chairs and made for easier control of speed and direction. With computerized eye technology to direct the power wheelchairs, mobility is now available to just about all disabled persons.

Discover more about the power wheelchair at PowerWheelchair.org. Visit us to learn what you need to know regarding getting a power wheel chair now!