Gerbon Medical

Why Electric Wheelchairs Are Becoming Increasingly Popular?

Why Electric Wheelchairs Are Becoming Increasingly Popular?
10 min read

1.Advantages of Electric Wheelchairs
2.Types of Wheelchairs
3.Features of Electric Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs are upgraded and transformed from traditional manual wheelchairs by adding high-performance power drive systems, intelligent control devices, batteries and other components. Equipped with a manually operated intelligent controller,they can move forward, backward, turn, stand up, lie flat and perform multiple functions. As a new generation of intelligent wheelchairs, they are high-tech products integrating modern precision machinery, intelligent numerical control, engineering mechanics and other fields.

Today’s intelligent electric wheelchairs are easy to operate and are developing toward lightweight and foldable designs, capable of adapting to various road conditions.

Advantages of Electric Wheelchairs

1.Wide user range. Compared with traditional wheelchairs, the powerful functions of electric wheelchairs are suitable not only for frail elderly people but also for severely disabled individuals. Stability, long battery life and adjustable speed are unique advantages. Videos of “commuting on electric wheelchairs” have attracted attention on social media, and many merchants regard young consumers as potential buyers.

2.Convenience. Traditional manual wheelchairs rely on human force; without assistance, users must push the wheels themselves. Electric wheelchairs only need to be charged, allowing independent operation without constant accompaniment.

3.Eco-friendly. Powered by electricity, electric wheelchairs are more environmentally friendly.

4.Safety. Production technology is increasingly mature; brake systems pass multiple professional tests before mass production, with a nearzero risk of malfunction. However, improper use outside designed areas (e.g., entering motor vehicle lanes) may cause serious safety risks.

5.Enhanced independence. With an electric wheelchair, users can independently handle daily tasks such as grocery shopping, cooking and going outdoors. One person plus one electric wheelchair can basically meet basic daily needs. Note:electric wheelchairs are only permitted in closed areas such as communities and parks, and are prohibited from public roads including motor vehicle lanes.

Types of Wheelchairs

1. Standard Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs rely on human power for movement. They are foldable for storage or transportation, though modern models may have rigid frames. Standard manual wheelchairs sold in medical supply storeshave a basic chair structure with four wheels: large rear wheels with hand rims and brakes, small front wheels for steering, and anti tip wheels at the back.Suitable for temporary mobility impairment; not ideal for prolonged sitting.

2. Electric Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs are equipped with electric motors and navigation controls, usually a small joystick on the armrest instead of manual propulsion.Control methods include joysticks, head controls, puff and sip systems and other switches.They are a good choice for severely paralyzed users or those needing long distance travel (with good cognitive ability), though they require more space.

3. Custom Wheelchairs

Customized according to patients’ conditions, with various accessories such as enhanced load capacity, special cushions/backrests, neck support systems, etc.As custom products, they are expensive and complex to use due to multiple accessories, mainly for severe disabilities or severe limb/torso deformities.Electric wheelchairs also have brakes and horns to alert pedestrians and avoid accidents.

4. Sports Wheelchairs

Specially designed for recreational sports and competitions,such as racing, basketball and dance.Characterized by lightweight and durability, using high tech materials.

5. Other Wheelchairs

Including mobility scooters, broadly categorized as wheelchairs, widely used by the elderly. Available in three wheel and four wheel models, electric powered, with a maximum speed of 15 km/h, classified by load capacity.

Features of Electric Wheelchairs

1.Rrechargeable, compact, lightweight, energy saving and eco friendly

2.Switchable between manual push, manual crank and electric drive

3.Foldable frame for easy storage and transportation

4.Intelligent control joystick, operable with either hand

5.Liftable armrests, adjustable and detachable footrests

6.PU solid tires, waterproof and breathable cushions/backrests, safety belts

7.5 speed adjustment, 360° zero radius turning

  8.Strong climbing ability, anti tip rear wheel design

  9.High safety: intelligent electromagnetic brakes and manual brakes

  10.Easy operation; lightweight materials, compact folded size, good stability on various roads; comfortable seating system.

Functional Classification

Product Features

1.Can stand upright and lie flat; functions as both a standing chair and a recliner, with a sofa style seat for enhanced comfort.

2.Equipped with top level international gearbox two speed motors, providing sufficient and matched power for stronger climbing and longer battery life.

3.Multiple humanized functions: dining table, flip up armrests, dual back safety belts,knee pads, adjustable headrest, 40Ah large capacity battery.

4.Anti forward and anti backward small wheels; 8 wheel design ensures safety when standing and climbing.

5.Latest top level international control system, fully automatic.

6.5 speed adjustment, maximum speed 12 km/h, 360° free turning (forward, backward, left, right).

7.Simple structure, strong power, electromagnetic brake (automatic braking when stopped, can park on slopes).

Scope of Application

There are many types of wheelchairs on the market. By material: aluminum alloy, lightweight materials and steel. By type: standard wheelchairs and special wheelchairs. Special wheelchairs include: sports wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, commode wheelchairs, standing wheelchairs, etc.

Standard Wheelchairs

Mainly consist of frame, wheels, brakes and other devices.Application: People with lower limb disabilities, hemiplegia, paraplegia below the chest and elderly with limited mobility.Features: Operable by users; fixed or detachable armrests; fixed or detachable footrests; foldable for carrying or storage.Available in hard/soft seats, pneumatic/solid tires. Models with fixed armrests and footrests are lower priced.

Special Wheelchairs

More comprehensive functions, serving not only as mobility aids but also for other purposes.

High back Reclining Wheelchairs

Application: High paraplegia and frail elderly.Features:

1.High backrest reaching the head; detachable armrests, rotary footrests (liftable, 90° rotatable, lower support adjustable to horizontal).

2.Backrest adjustable segmentally or infinitely to horizontal (like a bed) for resting; detachable headrest.

Electric Wheelchairs

Application: People with high paraplegia or hemiplegia who can control with one hand.Features: Powered by batteries, range about 20 km per charge; one hand control for forward, backward and turning; indoor/outdoor use; higher price.

Commode Wheelchairs

Application: Disabled and elderly unable to use the toilet independently.Types: Small wheel commode chairs, wheelchairs with toilet bowls, selectable by scenario.

Sports Wheelchairs

Application: For disabled people in sports, divided into ball games and racing.Features: Special design, aluminum alloy or lightweight materials, sturdy and lightweight.

Standing Wheelchairs

Dual function (stand/sit) wheelchairs for standing training of paraplegic or cerebral palsy patients.Benefits: Prevent osteoporosis, promote blood circulation, strengthen muscles; convenient for reaching objects.Application: Paraplegic patients, cerebral palsy patients.

 


Send A Message
*If you are interested in our products and want to know more details,please leave a message here,we will reply you as soon as we can.