Invacare 1026793 manual Percentage of Weight Distribution, Adjusting the Wheelbase for Stability

SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Percentage of Weight Distribution

WARNING

DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.

The seat depth, seat dump, back angle, seating system, size/position of the rear wheels, size/position of the front casters, as well as the user condition directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any change to one (1) or any combination of the nine (9) may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. These adjustments MUST be performed by a qualified technician

NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.4.

Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the normal balance, the center of gravity, and the weight distribution of the wheelchair. To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified health professional BEFORE attempting active use of the wheelchair.

CENTER OF

GRAVITY

UNOCCUPIEDOCCUPIED

FIGURE 2.4 Percentage of Weight

Distribution

Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending forward, it is important to use the front casters as a tool to maintain stability and balance.

Adjusting the Wheelbase for Stability

NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE 2.5.

Lengthening the Wheelbase - will increase stability and maintain standard maneuverability of the wheelchair.

Shortening the Wheelbase - will increase maneuverability and distribute additional weight onto the rear wheels.

Centering the Wheelbase - gives you maneuverability and response.

Rear	Axle
	Mounting
	Plate

m Nuts

Axle Bushing

Forward

FIGURE 2.5 Adjusting the Wheelbase for

Stability

Part No 1026793 21 Xtra™