The Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare Lightweight Powerstroll (Product Code: PWCPP010) is a Class I medical device designed to assist wheelchair attendants by providing power for pushing, particularly in strenuous situations such as inclines. It converts a standard wheelchair into a Class 2 invalid carriage under The Use of Invalid Carriages on Highways Regulations 1988.
Function Description:
The Powerstroll is an electrically operated device that attaches to a wheelchair to provide propulsion assistance. It is intended to transport an end user with restricted mobility, with the wheelchair attendant being the sole operator. The device aids in pushing, reducing the physical strain on the attendant when navigating various terrains or gradients. It features a power/direction switch for forward ("I"), backward ("II"), and off ("0") movement, a throttle lever for speed control, and a speed adjustment dial to set the maximum speed. The Powerstroll is designed for use in both indoor and outdoor environments, though caution is advised on uneven surfaces, grass, gravel, and gradients greater than 6°. It should not be used in oxygen-rich environments or near flammable gases due to its electrical operation.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Product Name: Lightweight Powerstroll
- Product Code: PWCPP010
- Top Speed: 3mph (5kph)
- Maximum Range: 10 miles (16km)
- Rated Slope: 6°
- Ground Clearance: 4cm
- Powerstroll Dimensions (L × W × H): 36 × 20 × 29cm
- Tyres: 20 x 7.5cm (x 2)
- Maximum Weight Capacity (including wheelchair and user): 115kg (18 stone)
- Overall Product Weight (with Battery): 14kg
- Battery Weight: 7kg
- Battery Type: 12V 20Ah Sealed Lead-Acid
- Motor Type: 12V, 100W
- Max Charger Output: 3A
- Ambient Temperature (Operating/Transport/Storage): 0°C to +40°C
- Operating Humidity: 20% to 85% RH
- Immunity Level (EMC): 20 V/m
Usage Features:
- Installation: The Powerstroll is installed by feeding a telescopic bar through the powerpack and securing it to brackets on the wheelchair's horizontal tubing. The battery pack is placed in a tray on top of the powerpack and connected via red and black connectors. The handset connects to the powerpack cable, and a lift-up strap is placed around the opposite push handle.
- Controls:
- Power/Direction Switch: A three-position switch for forward (I), backward (II), and off (0). A 2-second delay is present before the wheel moves after startup.
- Throttle Lever: Squeezing the lever propels the Powerstroll; releasing it stops the device. The more it's squeezed, the faster it travels.
- Speed Adjustment Dial: Clockwise rotation increases maximum speed, while anticlockwise rotation reduces it. Speed settings should not be adjusted while moving.
- Power Indicator LED: Illuminates green when the Powerstroll is switched on.
- Tightening Handles: Used to secure the handset clamp and adjust its angle.
- Operation: Users must exercise caution, care, and common sense. Speed should be lowered for difficult maneuvers, ramps, corners, and uneven terrain. The Powerstroll should not be used by the wheelchair user directly; it is attendant-operated only.
- Obstacle Navigation: Approach kerbs and fixed obstacles slowly and perpendicularly. Increase forward speed to clear obstacles when going up, and reduce speed before contact when going down. Never attempt to navigate backwards over obstacles or on steps/escalators.
- Inclines: Approach inclines/declines cautiously, lowering speed if necessary. Drive straight up or down inclines, never backwards. Do not exceed the maximum stability angle (6°).
- Outdoor Operation: Avoid inclement weather. If caught in rain, seek shelter and dry the Powerstroll thoroughly. Avoid driving on tall grass, loose surfaces (gravel, sand), muddy conditions, or icy/slippery surfaces. Extreme temperatures can affect battery and motor performance.
- Safety Warnings: Emphasizes not using a damaged Powerstroll, checking functionality before each use, avoiding use in rain/snow, not driving on unsuitable surfaces, and not operating under the influence of alcohol or when tired. Overloading (above 115kg) can cause overheating and excessive battery drain. Only approved parts and accessories should be used. Modifications are prohibited without manufacturer permission.
Maintenance Features:
- Battery Charging: The 12V 20Ah sealed lead-acid battery should be charged with the approved charger. Charging takes approximately 8 hours, with a 12-hour charge recommended for optimum performance. The charger's LED indicates charging (orange) and full charge (green). Batteries should be fully charged before each use and weekly to ensure longevity. Disconnect the battery from the powerpack and charger when not in use.
- Pre-Use Checks: Before initial use and regularly, check that the Powerstroll is securely fixed to the wheelchair, both drive wheels are on the ground, it drives in a straight line, and the throttle control returns to neutral, stopping the device immediately upon release.
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning prolongs lifespan. Use a damp cloth with mild soap or detergent to clean the frame, then dry thoroughly. Never use direct water contact, and always disconnect from the mains supply before cleaning.
- General Maintenance:
- Avoid knocking or abusing the control unit.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
- Keep the Powerstroll clean and free from moisture.
- Never use a conditioner on wheel treads.
- Check for flat spots on tires.
- Check all electrical connections for tightness and corrosion.
- Check all components for loose fasteners.
- Contact Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare Ltd. if motor/gearbox noise, frayed cables, cracked connections, uneven tire wear, veering, bent wheel assemblies, or failure to power on occurs.
- Wheel bearings are lubricated and sealed and do not require further lubrication.
- Fault Resolution: Minor faults can be resolved by switching off, checking the charger connection, ensuring the throttle lever is released, then switching back on and waiting 5 seconds before trying the throttle. If issues persist, recharge the battery. If still unresolved, contact Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare Ltd.
- Repair: Component replacement should be discussed with the provider. Some parts may be user-replaceable under instruction, while others require a service engineer. Disassembling the controller, motor, or charger by unauthorized personnel voids the warranty.
- Maintenance Schedule: A schedule is provided for daily, weekly, monthly, and six-monthly inspections of various components (All Parts, Turning/Driving/Preset/Disassembly, Brake system, Connections, Battery Condition, Wheel Condition, Motors, General Device Inspection, Cleaning). An annual inspection by an authorized service engineer is suggested.
- Disposal: At the end of its useful life, the Powerstroll and its electrical components should be disposed of according to W.E.E.E. policies and local/national regulations for recycling. Packaging materials (cardboard, plastic) are recyclable. The device and associated parts must be decontaminated before disposal to prevent cross-contamination.
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