Batteries and charging
The range of your vehicle
Most manufacturers of mobility products state the range of their vehicles either in the sales literature or within the Owners Manual. The range stated sometimes differs from manufacturer to manufacturer even though the battery size is the same. Sunrise Medical measure the range of their vehicles in a consistent and uniform manner, but variances still occur due to motor efficiencies and overall product load weight.
The range figures are calculated to
I.S.O. Standard 7176. Part 4:
Wheelchair Energy Consumption
Theoretical Range
This test is carried out in controlled conditions with new, fully charged batteries, on a level test surface and a user weight of 75kg. The range figures stated should be seen as a theoretical maximum and could be reduced if any single, or combination, of the following circumstances occur:
1User weight heavier than 75kg.
2Batteries whose age and condition are less than perfect.
3The terrain is difficult e.g. very hilly, sloping, muddy ground, gravel, grass, snow and ice.
4The vehicle climbs kerbs regularly.
5The ambient temperature is very hot or very cold.
6Incorrect tyre pressures in one or more tyres.
7Lots of start/stop driving.
8Also thick pile carpets within the home can affect range.
All this technical information may seem complicated and a little daunting, but please remember, that the battery sizes available on each Sunrise Medical product should give sufficient range to cope with the majority of customer’s lifestyles.
Myths and legends
Over the years, battery technology has moved forward but, unfortunately, some of the advice given on battery care has not. This has resulted in a number of confused and at times contradictory instructions on the ‘best’ way to care for your batteries. This section will help to dispel some of these myths and legends.
1Batteries can be charged immediately after use. You do not need to allow them to cool prior to charging.
2Mobility batteries do not develop a memory from using a repetitive charge and discharge cycle.
This only applies to nickel cadmium batteries commonly found in products such as camcorders.
3Batteries when new do not require any special attention with regard to their charge and discharge cycle. Following the relevant ‘care plan’ is the best advice we can give.
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