Considered as a strong symbol of freedom and liberty in its tue sense, the friendly wheelchair has a fascinating history. Did you know that the first wheelcairs were designed and developed by the ancient Egyptians? Offering mobility to the aged these were used by pushing from behind. As wheelchair design evolved over years they started getting more user friendly and mechanised. In the 20th century you could find huge, bulky wheelchairs with spoked wheels and rubber tyres, increasing mobility. And this was just the beginning...
As we understood the mobility requirements of the disabled and aged, designers started paying attention to the components of a wheelchair. Gradually, the basic design for the wheelchair was discovered - which is common even today. Though the function of wheelchairs is still mobility, they are much more comfortable now than ever before!
Most wheelchairs have a few basic components, understanding which will help you make the most of your wheelchairs at anytime. Here they are:
The Wheelchair Frame -
The frame of a wheelchair forms the basic skeleton on which other components rest. With advancement in technology today we have light weight wheelchairs as compared to the old heavy metal chairs. The former not only offer more mobility to the disabled by also strength and endurance. Some common materials used to build wheelchair frames include chrome, airplane aluminum, steel tubing, an alloy of chrome and lightweight materials, titanium, and other lightweight composite materials. The current most popular frame styles are rigid frame and standard cross-brace frame.
Upholstery and Seating -
Since wheelchairs are exposed to rugged weather and extensive usage, it is vital to have a comfortable yet durable upholstery material for yours. Starting from the common cotton, linen and canvas you can try anything upto synthetic fibres and leather. Just to add a little personal touch to your mobility device, also try out various new colors available in wheelchair upholstery. Also pay attention to the seating system you pick; these are sold separately.
Wheels/Tires -
Most wheelchairs use four wheels, two large wheels at the rear and two small at the front. Generally The a pneumatic tire of 24 inches is the standard for the rear wheels on most wheelchairs. Many manufacturers also offer other types like solid tires, semi-pneumatic or radial tires. Choose the right one for your mobility needs.
Footrests & Armrests -
In most wheelchairs, footrests usually are incorporated into the frame as part of the design. Cross-brace folding chairs often have footrests which swivel, flip up, and/or can be removed. You also have the option of choosing whelchairs with or without armrests. While there is a drastic increase in mobility using wheelchairs without armrests, these can be difficult for people with a weak upper body.
Hope this information helps you in understanding your mobility needs and your wheelchair better!