Electric wheelchair is built with many safety features but do they have brakes? It is estimated that 1.85% of the population worldwide requires a wheelchair. Electric wheelchairs often have many features that standard wheelchairs don’t offer. These wheelchairs can also be used for all kinds of disabilities and give users the freedom to be independent.
Electric wheelchairs have a built-in braking system that slows down and stops the wheelchair. In most wheelchairs, this system is automatic. When going downhill, it detects the movement and automatically slows the wheelchair. Other electric wheelchairs have a lever to control the brakes.
In an electric wheelchair, there is a motor that connects to the wheels, and this is controlled through a joystick. Electric wheelchairs are propelled and powered by a battery, and there are no manual requirements to move the wheelchair. Modern electric wheelchairs are designed to be used indoors and outdoors. Due to this versatility, they require adequate braking systems.
Do Electric Wheelchairs Have Braking Systems?
All electric wheelchairs are fitted with a braking system. Electric wheelchairs require brakes; without them, there would be no way to slow down the wheelchair or stop it. Also, without brakes, a wheelchair will be difficult to get in and out of as most wheelchairs have brakes to hold it in place while the user climbs into the wheelchair.
Electric wheelchairs are controlled by the wheelchair user and powered by a battery. The user controls the wheelchair through a joystick or another control mechanism, depending on their level of disability. There is no manual pushing required when using an electric wheelchair.
Electric wheelchairs usually have an electromagnetic braking system that slows or stops the wheelchair using electromagnetic force. There are many benefits to this braking system. But, the most notable is that less friction occurs when braking, and this increases the lifespan of the brakes, and this also means there is less wear and tear on the brakes.
How Do The Brakes Operate On An Electric Wheelchair?
The electromagnetic brakes on wheelchairs use magnets and electricity to brake automatically when the throttle on the wheelchair’s controller is released.
When using the joystick or the controller on your wheelchair and you push the joystick forward, it will move forward. When the joystick is pushed backward, the wheelchair will move back. When the joystick is not pushed, the brakes will automatically be applied, and the wheelchair will not move.
Another type of braking system in electric wheelchairs is a hand brake system. This system uses a handle that is installed in front of a handlebar which allows the wheelchair users to control the braking system manually. This is for wheelchair users who have hand strength but is not recommended for someone who does not have the power to operate the hand braking system.
Safety Tips For Using An Electric Wheelchair With Brakes
Electric wheelchairs are relatively easy to operate and can come with more than just the essential features to help make the user comfortable and to help them use their electric wheelchair. Like most mobility devices, safety measures should be considered when operating an electric wheelchair. Some of these safety measures included the following:
- Make sure you use a lap belt when operating an electric wheelchair
- Always point the joystick or controller in the direction you want to travel
- Both feet should always be on the footplate of the wheelchair when the electric wheelchair is in operation
- Make sure the speed of the wheelchair is adjusted to your specific needs
- Try to avoid slopes with a 10% or 20% gradient; this can be dangerous
- Use a slow speed down slopes and gradually increase speed when going up a slope
- The electric wheelchair should be fully charged before you go on a trip
- Ensure the brakes are applied when stationary
- Avoid using the electric wheelchair if there are repairs needed on the brakes
- If the brakes have been malfunctioning, avoid utilizing the wheelchair
- Avoid misuse of the brakes or overexertion
What Are The Best Electric Wheelchairs With Brakes?
Many different electric wheelchairs are designed to accommodate many disabilities. Electric wheelchairs are also used for seniors and can help them get around more easily. Some of the best wheelchairs with braking systems include:
- Shoprider Streamer Sport. The Shoprider Streamer Sport can travel 10 miles with its battery capacity. Its 3-inch ground clearance can handle many different terrains. This electric wheelchair is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It can be adjusted to many different positions to suit the user. It also comes with a joystick controller that can be fitted to the left or right hand and has adjustable foot and armrests
- Drive Medical Cirrus Plus. The Drive Medical Cirrcus Plus is an electric wheelchair built focusing on power, performance, and comfort. This wheelchair has a soft foam seat and positioning belt to keep the user in place. The Drive Medical Cirrcus plus can travel for 15 miles on a single charge and has a very lightweight construction. Some of the most notable features include an adjustable joystick, removable armrests, and heel hoops on the footrests that provide additional support.
- Golden Technologies LiteRider Envy Power Wheelchair. The Golden technologies powered wheelchair is lightweight and portable and can easily fit into most vehicles. It has rear-wheel drive and comfortable seating. It can disassemble into four pieces and comes in a variety of colors.
- Metris Health Gemini P301. The Metris Health Gemini is functional and heavy-duty. It is built with many adjustable features and is easy to navigate obstacles. This wheelchair can go for 20 miles on a single charge and has a higher weight capacity.
The above-listed recommendations for electric wheelchairs are generic. They may not be suitable for everyone or available in your local country.
Conclusion
All electric wheelchairs have brakes. The most widely found braking system in electric wheelchairs is an electromagnetic braking system. Electric wheelchairs, like many other mobility devices, require safety precautions.
However, not all wheelchairs are safe, mainly when wheelchair users are transported. Luckily there are solutions to keep electric wheelchair users safe during daily use and transportation.