Ultra Lightweight Self Propelled Wheelchair
Self-propelled wheelchairs that are ultra light allow you to move comfortably and with confidence, providing freedom and autonomy. Ideal for full-time use, these wheelchairs can reduce stress for both the user and caregiver.
It is important to choose the chair with seating components that are light and that meet the posture needs of the user.
Comfort
The specially designed design of our ultra light wheelchairs provides users with superior comfort, helping to reduce the strain on both their bodies and caregivers. The movable footrests can be folded and swung away to make transfers simpler and safer. The ergonomically designed chair provides support and posture, while the soft-touch fabric panels on the sides give you an easy grip. You can also personalize your wheelchair by choosing from a variety of upholstery colors that match your style and personal preferences.
A wheelchair can be a useful mobility aid that allows you to live a life of independence and continue to enjoy many of your most loved activities. It's crucial to choose the appropriate model that is suited to your individual requirements. If you're unsure our team of experts on mobility is always on hand to help you navigate the choices.
Wheelchairs are available in various sizes to meet your needs and are constructed from robust materials for long-lasting performance. Generally, a basic wheelchair is best for people who weigh up to 300 pounds. It also offers the option to be self-propelled when your energy levels are high, and pushed by an attendant when they're low.
The majority of standard wheelchairs come with two large rear wheels as well as four smaller front casters that serve as steering wheels and for stability. These wheelchairs are difficult to push and can cause stress for both the user and caregivers. Because of this, they're better suited to short-term use or travelling.
The lightweight wheelchairs are made from lighter materials, such as aluminum. They are also more maneuverable than heavier models. This makes them easier to push by caregivers and users. They can also be folded and transported in vehicles. This makes them a great choice for use on the go or in everyday life.
The light weight of the wheelchair frame also makes it easier for users to move into and out of the chair, which is the frustration that is a common issue for many. To make it easier to use there are features such as adjustable brake controls, easy-to-use seat height adjustment and an easy folding mechanism that allows the wheelchair to fold in just seconds.
Mobility
Our Ultra lightweight wheelchair is packed with features that make it easy to move and transport. Firstly, the front wheels are raised by two stepper tubes that allow the carer to safely raise the tyres to the top of obstacles or curbs. The rear tyres feature long reach brakes that are easily activated by the user or caregiver to slow down speed and ensure secure parking. The solid Polyurethane (PU) 20cm (8") front tyres are durable and low maintenance, providing ease of movement over a variety of surfaces.
In our research, we found that the ultra-light and rigid frame has a higher performance in propulsion compared to folding frames wheelchairs measured on concrete and carpet. The performance of a wheelchair can be significantly affected by its components, including the casters and tires as well as the environment and usage. The wheelchair's environment can create vibrational forces, impact loads and inertial torques during use that are not reflected within the current tests for wheelchair failure [1010.
Real-world mobility is described by short, slow bursts with frequent stops, turns and restarts. This type of mobility is not reflected the results of tests for failure of wheelchairs as it isn't often performed on the same area and at the same time. We fitted a test sample with a seat-switch that could measure the occupant's occupancy and an accelerometer to record their daily mobility.
The study found that the majority of participants walked 1.7 km each day, and that rapid (>1 m/s) and long (>2 minutes) periods of wheeling were not common. This study highlights the importance of paying attention to maneuverability when prescribing and educating wheelchairs.
The results also showed that a wheelchair can increase its overall efficiency by using lighter tires and frames however any further weight reductions will not increase its propulsion efficiency significantly. The reason is that additional weight increases metabolic costs because of frame flexion, vibration and the relative motions of removable, loosely-attached components like footrests. Averaging 5 kg to the frame's mass will not significantly alter its energetic efficiency when measured over concrete.
Ease of Use
The convenience of using an ultra-light self-propelled wheelchair is a major element in its appeal. Being reliant on others to take your places can be very difficult for many wheelchair users, and being able to go where you want and when you'd like is vital to maintain your independence. You can shop, visit friends, or pursue your passions and hobbies without requiring someone else to take you there.
One of the most important factors in determining how easy it is to push a wheelchair is wheel size. Standard wheelchairs for adults have two large rear wheels, which range from 20 to 26 inches in diameter. They are designed to provide propulsion however the front casters are usually smaller and are primarily responsible for steering and stability. The smaller front wheels are easier to push than the larger rear wheels, since they require less effort to travel the same distance.
These benefits are available to those who choose the lightweight wheelchair. They are more maneuverable and are able to be used in tight areas. This allows you navigate bridges and kerbs which would normally be difficult for standard wheelchairs. This lets you gain access to areas of your community or home that were previously inaccessible, such as cobbled or grassy surfaces.
Another thing to consider is whether you'll be using the wheelchair yourself or with an assist. Read A great deal more recommends a Basic or a Lightweight Wheelchair in case you intend to make use of it for long periods without the need for an attendant. If you plan to rely on an attendant to help you, we suggest you consider the features of a Transport Chair or one of our Heavy Duty options.
Our lightweight self-propelled wheelchairs can be folded down and easily disassembled making them much easier to store, transport and clean. They can easily be transported in the trunk of a car. They are also ideal for those who travel for long distances as they can be rolled into hotels and restaurants. The chairs come with footrests that can be turned or swung to make it easier to get in and out.
Customisation
Wheelchairs are available with a wide range of standard features. However they can be modified to meet the requirements of each individual user. Some models feature footrests that can be removed and folded or swung away to make it safer and easier to transfer into and out of the wheelchair. Certain models come with various armrests and seat heights to help reduce shoulder strain.
There are also wheelchairs with suspension. This is especially crucial for those who spend a lot of time in their wheelchair. It will reduce the vibrations transmitted through the frame that may cause discomfort. This will also make the wheelchair more stable and able to handle a range of conditions.
Wheelchairs with suspension can also help to cut down on the effort required to propel them, since they are more efficient in transferring energy through the wheels and then into forward motion. This can ease the burden on both the user and their caregiver particularly if they have to push them over long distances or up hills.
Lightweight and ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs are cheaper than regular counterparts, so they are ideal for those on a budget. It is important to consult an expert in healthcare to determine the best wheelchair for you.
Ultralight, light and lightweight manual wheelchairs fall into the category of complex Rehab equipment, meaning that they are usually recommended by an Healthcare Professional with ATP (Assistive Technology Practitioner) accreditation. They will be able to assess your needs, suggest the best equipment for you and submit all paperwork required to obtain the necessary funding approval for your new wheelchair. When your wheelchair is purchased, it will be delivered to you in order to use it immediately.