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.
Most likely Jennings and Everest would be astounded with the amazing advancements in today's power wheelchairs as well as by the increase in global demand for the new machines. Power wheelchairs are motorized and are different than power-assisted wheelchairs, which have large rear wheels that can be operated by battery-powered motors.
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 new passive standing position power wheelchair is the direct result of new technology. These chairs provide significant benefits to the user by permitting the patient to get out of the tiring seated position to a more natural erect position. Patients receive the following health benefits:
* Reduced seating pressure * Decreased bone deterioration * Bladder normalcy * Improved circulation * Improved muscular conditions * Overall improved functional conditions
Passive standing wheelchairs are already in great demand. Interested persons should contact manufacturers as soon a possible.
In recent years, new seating tilt and chair level options have also helped to provide comfort to patients. Additionally, computerized systems have been added to steer, determine speed and add more precise movements to power wheelchairs. Amazing eye-motion technology now permits severely disabled patients to drive their own chairs. Power wheelchairs are truly user friendly and disabled persons can benefit from their use.
Find out 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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