The world’s first known wheelchair was developed in China in the 6th century. Today, there are manual and power wheelchairs. Mass manufacturing of wheelchairs was first performed by two engineers who developed a collapsible chair. Harry Jennings and Herbert Everest, who suffered a serious neck injury in a mining accident, also developed the “x brace” support system still used in today’s chairs.
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.
Heavyweight power wheelchairs use a four-pole motor and can transport weights above 300 pounds. These chairs have many features that doubtless would astound Everest and Jennings. Heavyweight chairs provide either rear wheel drive, front wheel drive, center wheel drive, or four-wheel drive. These options were developed within the past fifteen years and more current options include the use of computerized technology.
Passive Standing Technology
Due to the growth of the industry, there is great pressure to develop standards and impose basic registration criteria for global manufacturers. In the United States, legislation entitled the Consumer Protection for Wheeled Mobility was passed in 2003. All manufacturers are required to participate in continuing education and to achieve “Assistive Technology Supplier Certification.”
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.
Learn more about the power wheelchair at PowerWheelchair.org. Visit us to learn what you must know regarding getting a power wheelchair today!
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