The modern power wheelchairs are similar structurally however the various functions available make each unit unique.Ever power wheelchair has the following 4 basic parts:
motor
battery
drive
controller
Lightweight power wheelchairs use a 2-pole motor, while the heavy duty power wheelchair uses a 4-pole motor. The 4-pole motor offers more carrying power and also allows for additional important options.
Heavy-duty wheelchairs are becoming more popular because of the extra weight of some of the users. There are over 3.8 million people who weigh over 300 pounds in the US alone. These individuals at some point might require the use of a power wheelchair.Heavy dutywheelchairs require extra reinforcement to provide stability. Areas that need extra strength include the frame, wheels, suspension, engine, and battery. The most common problem with heavy dutywheelchairs is the motor, which if not design properly will fail under excess weight.
Batteries Included
Power wheelchairs use sealed lead acid batteries (SLA). They can either be wet or dry cell batteries that have an output of 4 to 5 amps. The battery can be recharged using a standard electrical outlet when the chair is not being used.Power wheelchairs are available in rear wheel drive, front wheel drive and center-wheel or four wheel drive. Rear wheel and center wheel drive wheelchairs are most effective on flat terrain. Front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive would be the better option for power wheelchairs that are going to be used outdoors.
Most electric wheelchairs are steered using a joystick or handle. For those who are severely disabled, other control options include head to chin controller, motion sensitive tube or even an eye-to-computer screen controller.The computer interface uses the battery power to operate. The computer also advises the user when the battery needs recharging. In addition to its primary speed and steering uses, the controller manages the tilt, the lift and recline functions.
Power vs Manual
Customizing your electric wheelchair starts with choosing a 2 or 4 pole motor then adding the appropriate accessories. Heavy-duty wheelchairs are much more durable compared to lightweight wheelchairs and they are also much more expensive. You will probably have the use the power chair for many years to come, so choose your options carefully.The biggest makers of power wheelchairs are China, Canada and Taiwan. In 2004 Canada exported $1.9 billion worth of power wheelchairs to the U.S. In 2008 that number was $4.1 billion worth of electric wheelchairs which represents a 114.1% increase.
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Review by Elizabeth F. on 10 May 2022review stating Mom’s favorite!
I needed a chair that I could take with us, but wasn’t too heavy to lift into the car. This was perfect. When I am pushing, the hand brakes are great. Mom ordered a second chair for in the home. She gets around in it far better than her large wheelchair. Mom is soon to be 96 y/o.
Review by Irene A. on 23 Nov 2021review stating A life changer!
At 98 my formerly active mother’s knee collapsed. She started off in a transport wheelchair while we figured out what to do. After reading about the types of ultralight wheelchairs, a local medical supply recommended Karmen. I was able to speak with their customer service, who helped me narrow the chair down to the S Ergo 115. It’s lightweight, ve...Read MoreRead more about At 98 my formerly active mother’s knee
ry maneuverable and because it comes in a 16 inch, it can get through narrow doorways. We haven’t put the foot supports on, which allows Mom to use her feet as well as her arms to move around the house. She is thrilled with her new mobility, the only problem we’re having is getting her to slow down! Cost wise, the price was $200 less than a similar model at a local wheelchair store. We purchased directly from the factory and the transaction in the delivery could not have been smoother. Thank you for this life-changing product! Read LessRead less about At 98 my formerly active mother’s knee
Comments by Store Owner on Review by Irene A. on 23 Nov 2021
Store Owner
23/11/21
Hello Irene,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. It is wonderful to hear how the chair has impacted your lives in such positive ways. Your mother sounds like an amazing person. Our team here wishes you and your mother the brightest of days ahead!
Review by Anthony S. on 9 Mar 2025review stating The Best and easiest choice in chairs
Great lite weight chair. The best I have ever had and I have been an amputee since 2016. User friendly to adjust and customize for my Size of 6 ft ‘4 in. Tall right side AK.
Karman Helping Thousands to Get Around & Making Life Better
Review by Tom M. on 28 Feb 2025review stating Karman Helping Thousands to Get Around & Making Life Better
The Karman lightweight wheelchairs make life livable and accessible. They are easy to fold and transport - making shopping, gardening, landscaping second nature. They are very durable in all weather conditions, as well. (Usually, I replace the seat cushion). The metal folding system could be made stronger though. Thank you, Karman!
Ever power wheelchair has the following 4 basic parts:
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. It is wonderful to hear how the chair has impacted your lives in such positive ways. Your mother sounds like an amazing person. Our team here wishes you and your mother the brightest of days ahead!