Invacare Nutron R32 Operating & Maintenance Manual

Owner’s Operator and Maintenance Manual

DEALER: This manual MUST be given to

the user of the wheelchair.

USER:

BEFORE using this wheelchair, read

this manual and save for future reference.

For more information regarding Invacare

products, parts, and services, please visit

www.invacare.com

Nutron® Series

R32™, R32LX

Nutron® Series 2 Part No.1106644

 WARNING

A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST PERFORM THE INITIAL SET UP

OF THIS WHEELCHAIR. ALSO, A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST

PERFORM ALL PROCEDURES IN THE SERVICE MANUAL.

WHEELCHAIR USERS: DO NOT SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS

EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING

(1) THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL

AND (2) THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF APPLICABLE). IF

YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS,

CAUTIONS, AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT INVACARE

TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SERVICE OR

OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE INJURY OR DAMAGE

MAY RESULT.

DEALERS AND QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS: DO NOT SERVICE OR

OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND

UNDERSTANDING (1) THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND

MAINTENANCE MANUAL, (2) THE SERVICE MANUAL (IF

APPLICABLE) AND (3) THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF

APPLICABLE). IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE

WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT

INVACARE TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO

SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE, INJURY

OR DAMAGE MAY RESULT.

NOTE:Updatedversionsofthismanualareavailableonwww.invacare.com.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part No.1106644 3 Nutron® Series

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SPECIAL NOTES ................................................................................ 9

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS .................................................. 10

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES ................................................. 11

Repair or Service Information ...............................................................................................................11

Operating Information.............................................................................................................................11

Tire Pressure .............................................................................................................................................12

Electrical Accessories ..............................................................................................................................12

Grounding Instructions ...........................................................................................................................13

Batteries......................................................................................................................................................13

Charging Batteries ...............................................................................................................................13

Rain Test.....................................................................................................................................................14

Weight Training ........................................................................................................................................14

Weight Limitation.....................................................................................................................................14

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION ..................................................... 15

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS ......................... 17

Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs.............................................................................................................17

Stability and Balance.................................................................................................................................17

Coping With Everyday Obstacles.........................................................................................................17

A Note to Wheelchair Assistants....................................................................................................18

Tilting...........................................................................................................................................................18

Tilting - Curbs.......................................................................................................................................18

Stairways.....................................................................................................................................................19

Escalators ...............................................................................................................................................20

Transferring To and From Other Seats ..............................................................................................20

Percentage of Weight Distribution ......................................................................................................21

Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward ..........................................................................................21

Reaching and Bending - Backward........................................................................................................22

SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING .................... 23

Safety Inspection Checklists...................................................................................................................23

Inspect/Adjust Initially .........................................................................................................................23

Inspect/Adjust Weekly........................................................................................................................24

Inspect/Adjust Monthly.......................................................................................................................24

Inspect/Adjust Periodically.................................................................................................................24

Troubleshooting Guide ...........................................................................................................................25

Checking Battery Charge Level.............................................................................................................26

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Nutron® Series 4 Part No.1106644

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 5—WHEELCHAIR OPERATION ........................................... 27

Operating the Wheelchair......................................................................................................................27

Turning the Power On/Off................................................................................................................27

Using the Joystick to Drive the Chair.............................................................................................28

Using the Horn.....................................................................................................................................28

SPJ™ Joystick Switches and Indicators................................................................................................29

Multi-Function Charger Port.............................................................................................................29

On/Off Toggle Switch .........................................................................................................................29

Speed Control Knob ...........................................................................................................................29

Joystick....................................................................................................................................................29

Information Gauge Display ................................................................................................................29

SECTION 6—FRONT RIGGINGS ........................................................ 31

Installing/Removing the Footrests.........................................................................................................31

Installing..................................................................................................................................................31

Removing ...............................................................................................................................................31

Adjusting the Footrest Height...............................................................................................................32

Model PW93, PW93E, and PW93ST Footrests ...........................................................................32

Model 93M, 904A, PAL4A, and PAS4A Footrests .......................................................................33

Replacing Heel Loops ..............................................................................................................................33

Installing/Removing Elevating Legrests.................................................................................................34

Installing..................................................................................................................................................34

Removing ...............................................................................................................................................34

Raising/Lowering Elevating Legrests and/or Adjusting Calfpads ....................................................34

Raising/Lowering Elevating Legrests ................................................................................................34

Adjusting Calfpads................................................................................................................................35

Adjusting/Replacing Telescoping Front Rigging Support .................................................................35

SECTION 7—ARMS ......................................................................... 37

Adjusting Armrest Height.......................................................................................................................37

Using Swing-Back Arms...........................................................................................................................38

Replacing Desk/Full Length Armrest Pad and/or Clothing Guards

(Fixed Height Arms Only) ......................................................................................................................38

Armrest Pad ..........................................................................................................................................38

Clothing Guard.................................................................................................................

....................38

Removing/Installing Armrest..................................................................................................................39

Removing ...............................................................................................................................................39

Installing..................................................................................................................................................39

SECTION 8—BACK ......................................................................... 40

Adjusting the Back Height ......................................................................................................................40

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part No.1106644 5 Nutron® Series

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 9—UPHOLSTERY/SEAT POSITIONING STRAP ..................... 41

Replacing Seat Upholstery......................................................................................................................41

Replacing Back Upholstery.....................................................................................................................41

Replacing Seat Positioning Strap ...........................................................................................................42

SECTION 10—JOYSTICK .................................................................. 44

Preparing the Joystick For Use..............................................................................................................44

Repositioning the Joystick.......................................................................................................................45

SECTION 11—CASTERS ................................................................... 46

Adjusting Forks .........................................................................................................................................46

SECTION 12—BATTERIES ................................................................ 47

Warnings for Handling and Replacing Batteries................................................................................47

Using the Proper Batteries.....................................................................................................................47

Recommended Battery Types ...............................................................................................................48

Installing/Removing the Battery Boxes ................................................................................................49

Installing/Removing the Battery Tray...................................................................................................50

Installing/Removing the Batteries Into/From the Battery Boxes ...................................................51

Connecting Battery Cables ....................................................................................................................53

Direct Mount Method.........................................................................................................................53

Battery Clamp Method .......................................................................................................................56

Replacing the Battery Box Retaining Strap.........................................................................................59

Cleaning Battery Terminals....................................................................................................................60

Charging Batteries....................................................................................................................................61

When To Charge Batteries ...............................................................................................................61

Description and Use of Battery Chargers......................................................................................62

Connecting the Battery Charger......................................................................................................62

SECTION 13—CLUTCH/MOTOR LOCK ............................................... 63

Engaging/Disengaging the Clutches.......................................................................................................63

SECTION 14—WHEEL LOCKS ............................................................ 65

Installing/Adjusting/Using the Wheel Locks .......................................................................................65

Installing/Adjusting ...............................................................................................................................65

Using .......................................................................................................................................................66

SECTION 15—ANTI-TIPPERS ........................................................... 67

Installing/Removing the Anti-Tippers...................................................................................................67

Installing..................................................................................................................................................67

Removing ...............................................................................................................................................67

SECTION 16—TRANSPORTING ........................................................ 69

Transporting the Nutron........................................................................................................................69

Nutron® Series 6 Part No.1106644

Unfolding/Folding the Wheelchair ...................................................................................................69

Unfolding 69

Folding 69

LIMITED WARRANTY ..................................................................... 71

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3. Receive updates with product information, maintenance tips, and industry news.

4. Invacare can contact you or your provider, if servicing is needed on your product.

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protected as required by applicable laws and regulations.

Part No.1106644 7 Nutron® Series

Name _______________________________________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________________

City ___________________State/Province __________

Zip/Postal Code ________

Email ___________________________________ Phone No. _________________

Invacare Model No. ______________________ Serial No. __________________

Purchased From _________________________Date of Purchase:___________

1. Method of purchase: (check all that apply)

❏ Medicare ❏ Insurance ❏ Medicaid ❏ Other __________________________

2. This product was purchased for use by: (check one)

❏ Self ❏ Parent ❏ Spouse ❏ Other

3. Product was purchased for use at:

❏ Home ❏ Facility ❏ Other

4. I purchased an Invacare product because:

❏ Price ❏ Features (list features) _________________________________________

5. Who referred you to Invacare products? (check all that apply)

❏ Doctor ❏ Therapist ❏ Friend ❏ Relative ❏ Dealer/Provider ❏ Other_________

❏ Advertisement (circle one): TV, Radio, Magazine, Newspaper ❏ No Referral_____

6. What additional features, if any, would you like to see on this product?

__________________________________________________________________________

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If yes, please list any condition(s) here and we will send you information by email and/or mail about

any available Invacare products that may help treat, care for or manage such condition(s):

__________________________________________________________________________

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9. What would you like to see on the Invacare website?

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11. User's Year of birth: ______________________________________________________

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SPECIAL NOTES

Part No.1106644 9 Nutron® Series

SPECIAL NOTES

WARNING/CAUTIONnoticesasusedinthismanualapplytohazardsorunsafe

practiceswhichcouldresultinpersonalinjuryorpropertydamage.

NOTICE

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO

CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

WHEELCHAIR USER

As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, Invacare endeavors to supply a wide variety of

wheelchairs to meet many needs of the end user. However, final selection of the

type of wheelchair to be used by an individual rests solely with the user and his/her

healthcare professional capable of making such a selection.

WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS

Wheelchair users should NOT be transported in vehicles of any kind while in

wheelchairs. As of this date, the Department of Transportation has not approved

any tie-down systems for transportation of a user while in a wheelchair, in a moving

vehicle of any type.

It is Invacare’s position that users of wheelchairs should be transferred into appro-

priate seating in vehicles for transportation and use be made of the restraints made

available by the auto industry. Invacare cannot and does not recommend any wheel-

chair transportation systems.

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

Nutron® Series 10 Part No.1106644

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS

*NOTE:Rangewillvarywithbatteryconditions,surface,terrainandoperatingweight.

**NOTE:Includesseatingsystemandaccessories.

NUTRON R32, R32LX

SEAT WIDTH RANGE 14, 16, 18 or 20 inches

SEAT DEPTH RANGE 16, 17 or 18 inches (17 and 18 in. by extension)

BACK HEIGHT RANGE STANDARD 16, 17 or 18 inches

SEAT-TO-FLOOR 17¾ or 19¾ inches

OVERALL WIDTH 21¾ inches to 27¾ inches (With joystick)

OVERALL HEIGHT

LOW SEAT

ADULT

33¼ inches to 37¼ inches

35¼ inches to 39¼ inches

OVERALL LENGTH 36½ inches to 47¼ inches

WEIGHT

W/O BATTERIES AND FRONT RIGGINGS

W/ BATTERIES AND PW93 FRONT RIGGINGS

UI GEL CELL (14-INCH CHAIRS)

22NF GEL CELL (16, 18 OR 20 INCH CHAIRS)

SHIPPING

79 pounds

145 pounds

110 pounds

157 pounds

123 pounds

DRIVE WHEELS/TIRES

(FLAT FREE OR PNEUMATIC) 12½ inches x 2¼ inches

CASTERS W/PRECISION SEALED BEARINGS 8 x 2 inches semi pneumatic (standard)

8 x 1¾ inches semi pneumatic (optional)

6 x 2 inches semi pneumatic (optional)

ANTI-TIPPERS Rotating, removable (standard)

FOOTREST/LEGREST Swingaway, removable

ARMRESTS

FIXED HEIGHT

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT

Desk and full length (standard)

Desk and full length (optional)

UPHOLSTERY Black nylon

BATTERIES

BATTERY/SIZE (NOT SUPPLIED)

TWO (2) REQUIRED

UI gel cell

22NF gel cell (not available on 14-inch wide wheel-

chairs)

SPEED (M.P.H.) 0 to 4

TURNING RADIUS 35 inches

*RANGE (VARIABLE) 12 - 14 miles with UI batteries

18 - 22 miles with 22NF batteries

**WEIGHT LIMITATION 250 lbs.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Part No.1106644 11 Nutron® Series

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Repair or Service Information

Set‐upoftheElectronicControlUnitistobeperformedONLYbyindividualscertifiedby

Invacare.Thefinaladjustmentsof thecontrollermayaffectotheractivitiesofthe

wheelchair.Damagetotheequipmentcouldoccurunderthesecircumstances.If

non‐certifiedindividualsperformanyworkontheseunits,thewarrantyisvoid.

Operating Information

Performanceadjustments shouldonlybemadebyprofessionalsofthehealthcarefieldor

personsfullyconversantwiththisprocessandthedriverʹscapabilities.Incorrectsettings

couldcauseinjurytothedriver,bystanders,damagetothechairandtosurrounding

property.

Afterthewheelchairhasbeenset‐up,checktomake

surethatthewheelchairperformsto

thespecificationsenteredduringtheset‐upprocedure.Ifthewheelchairdoesnot

performtospecifications,turnthewheelchairoffimmediatelyandre‐enterset‐up

specifications.Repeatthisprocedureuntilthewheelchairperformstospecifications.

DONOTshiftyourweightorsittingpositiontowardthedirectionyouarereachingasthe

wheelchairmaytipover.

DOdetermineandestablishyourparticularsafetylimitsbypracticingbending,reaching

andtransferringactivitiesinthepresenceofaqualifiedhealthcareprofessionalBEFORE

attemptingactiveuseofthewheelchair.

DONOTattempttoreachobjectsifyouhavetomoveforwardintheseat.

DONOTattempttoreachobjectsifyouhavetopickthemupfromthefloorbyreaching

downbetweenyourknees.

DONOTleanoverthetopofthebackupholsterytoreachobjectsfrombehindasthismay

causethewheelchairtotipover.

DONOT

useanescalatortomoveawheelchairbetweenfloors.Seriousbodilyinjurymay

occur.

Beforeattemptingtotransferinoroutofthewheelchair,everyprecautionshouldbe

takentoreducethegapdistance.Turnbothcastersparalleltotheobjectyouare

transferringonto.Alsobecertainthepowerisoffandthewheellocksareengagedto

preventthewheelsfrommoving.

DONOTengageordisengagethemotorreleaseleversuntilthepowerisintheoff

position.

Invacarestronglyrecommendsproceedingdownrampsorslopesathalfspeedorslower

andtoavoidhardbrakingorsuddenstops.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Nutron® Series 12 Part No.1106644

DONOTattempttoliftthewheelchairbyliftingonanyremovable(detachable)parts.

Liftingbymeansofanyremovable(detachable)partsofawheelchairmayresultininjury

totheuserordamagetothewheelchair.

ALWAYSwearyourseatpositioningstrap.

Theseatpositioningstrapisapositioningbeltonly.Itisnotdesignedforuseasasafety

devicewithstandinghighstressloadssuchasautooraircraftsafetybelts.Ifsignsofwear

appear,beltMUSTbereplacedimmediately.

Beforeperforminganymaintenance,adjustmentorserviceverifythattheON/OFFswitch

onthejoystickisintheoffposition.

Invacareproductsarespecificallydesignedandmanufacturedforuseinconjunctionwith

Invacareaccessories.Accessoriesdesignedbyothermanufacturershavenotbeentested

byInvacareandarenotrecommendedforusewithInvacareproducts.

Avoidstorageorusenearexternalflameorcombustibleproducts.

DONOTengageordisengagethemotorlocks/clutchesuntilthepowerisintheOFF

position.

DONOToperateonroads,streetsorhighways.

DONOTclimb,goupordownrampsortraverseslopesgreaterthan9°.

DONOTattempttomoveupordownaninclinewithawater,iceoroilfilm.

DONOTattempttodriveovercurbsorobstacles.Doingsomaycauseyourwheelchair

toturnoverandcausebodilyharmordamagetothechair.

DONOTleavethepowerbuttonintheonpositionwhenenteringorexitingyour

wheelchair.

DONOTstandontheframeofthewheelchair.

DONOTusethefootplatesasaplatform.Whengettinginoroutofthewheelchair,make

surethatthefootplatesareintheupwardpositionorswingfootreststowardstheoutside

ofthechair.

Anti‐tippersMUSTbeusedatalltimes.Whenoutdoorsonwet,softgroundorgravel

surfaces,anti‐tippersmaynotprovidethesamelevelofprotectionagainsttipover.Extra

cautionmustbeobservedwhentraversingsuchsurfaces.

Tire Pressure

DONOTuseyourwheelchairunlessithasthepropertirepressure(p.s.i.).DONOT

overinflatethetires.Failuretofollowthesesuggestionsmaycausethetiretoexplodeand

causebodilyharm.Therecommendedtirepressureislistedonthesidewallofthetire.

Electrical Accessories

EXTREMEcareshouldbeexercisedwhenusingoxygenincloseproximitytoelectric

circuits.Contactyouroxygensupplierforinstructionintheuseofoxygen.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Part No.1106644 13 Nutron® Series

Grounding Instructions

DONOT,underanycircumstances,cutorremovetheroundgroundingprongfromany

plugusedwithorforInvacareproducts.Somedevicesareequippedwiththree‐prong

(grounding)plugsforprotectionagainstpossibleshockhazards.Whereatwo‐prongwall

receptacleisencountered,itisthepersonalresponsibilityandobligationofthecustomer

tocontactaqualifiedelectricianandhavethetwo‐prongreceptaclereplacedwitha

properlygroundedthree‐prongwallreceptacleinaccordancewiththeNationalElectrical

Code.Ifyoumustuseanextensioncord,useonlyathree‐wireextensioncordhavingthe

sameorhigherelectricalratingasthedevicebeingconnected.Inaddition,Invacarehas

placedRED/ORANGEWARNINGTAGSonsomeequipment.DONOTremovethese

tags.

Batteries

Thewarrantyandperformancespecificationscontainedinthismanualarebasedonthe

deepcyclegelcellbatteries.Invacarestronglyrecommendstheiruseasthepowersource

forthisunit.

Carefullyreadbattery/batterychargerinformationpriortoinstalling,servicingor

operatingyourwheelchair.

Charging Batteries

NEVERattempttorechargethebatteries byattachingcablesdirectlytothebattery

terminals.

DONOTattempttorechargethebatteriesandoperatethewheelchairatthesametime.

DONOToperatewheelchairwithextensioncordattachedtotheACcable.

DONOTattempttorechargethebatterieswhenthewheelchairhasbeenexposedtoany

typeofmoisture.

DONOTattempttorechargethebatterieswhenthewheelchairisoutside.

DONOTsitinthewheelchairwhilechargingthebatteries.

READandCAREFULLYfollowthemanufacturer’sinstructionsforeachcharger

(suppliedorpurchased).Ifcharginginstructionsarenotsupplied,consultaqualified

technicianforproperprocedures.

Afterchargingbatteries,ALWAYSmakesurethatthebatterychargercordisunplugged.

Failuretodosomayresultindamagetothecordorpersonalinjurytotheuseror

bystanders.

Useofimproperextensioncordcouldresultinriskoffireandelectricshock.

Whenusingan

extensioncord,useonlyathree(3)wireextensioncordhavingatleast16

AWG(AmericanWireGauge)wireandthesameorhigherelectricalratingasthedevice

beingconnected.Useofimproperextensioncordcouldresultinriskoffireandelectric

shock.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES

Nutron® Series 14 Part No.1106644

Ensurethepinsoftheextensioncordplugarethesamenumber,size,andshapeasthose

onthecharger.

DONOTunderanycircumstancescutorremovetheroundgroundingplugfromthe

chargerACcableplugortheextensioncordplug.

Three(3)prongtotwo(2)prongadaptersshouldnotbeused.Useofthree(3)prong

adapterscanresultinimpropergroundingandpresentashockhazardtotheuser.

Rain Test

InvacarehastesteditspowerwheelchairsinaccordancewithISO7176Part9“RainTest”.

Thisprovidestheenduserorhis/herattendantsufficienttimetoremovehis/herpower

wheelchairfromarainstormandretainwheelchairoperation.

DONOTleavepowerwheelchairinarainstormofanykind.

DONOTusepowerwheelchairinashowerorleaveitinadampbathroomwhiletaking

ashower.

DONOTleavepowerwheelchairinadampareaforanylengthoftime.

Directexposuretorainordampnesswillcausethechairtomalfunctionelectricallyand

mechanically;maycausethechairtoprematurelyrust.

Checktoensurethatthebatterycoversaresecuredinplace,joystickbootisnottornor

crackedwherewatercanenterandthatallelectricalconnectionsaresecureatalltimes.

DONOTusethejoystickifthebootistornorcracked.Ifthejoystickbootbecomestorn

orcracked,replaceimmediately.

Weight Training

InvacareDOESNOTrecommendtheuseofitswheelchairsasaweighttraining

apparatus.Invacarewheelchairshavenotbeendesignedortestedasaseatforanykind

ofweighttraining.Ifoccupantusessaidwheelchairasaweighttrainingapparatus,

Invacareshallnotbeliableforbodilyinjury,andthe

warrantyisvoid.

Weight Limitation

TheNutronR32andR32LXhaveaweightlimitation,includingtheseatingsystem,of250

lbs.RefertoPercentageofWeightDistributiononpage 21.

Invacarerecommendsthatonlyheavy‐dutywheelchairsbeusedforindividuals

weighingmorethan250lbs.Further,theactivityleveloftheindividualwheelchairuser

isimportant.Forinstance,a170lbsactivewheelchairusercouldsubjectthewheelchair

tomorestressthana250lbsuser.Invacarerecommendsthatveryactiveusersconsider

usingheavy‐dutywheelchairs.

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION

Part No.1106644 15 Nutron® Series

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION

 WARNING

CAUTION: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ THIS INFORMATION

REGARDING THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC

INTERFERENCE ON YOUR POWERED WHEELCHAIR.

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) From Radio Wave Sources

Powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters (in this text, both will be referred to

as powered wheelchairs) may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI),

which is interfering electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as

radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two way radios, and

cellular phones. The interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the powered

wheelchair to release its brakes, move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It

can also permanently damage the powered wheelchair's control system. The

intensity of the interfering EM energy can be measured in volts per meter (V/m).

Each powered wheelchair can resist EMI up to a certain intensity. This is called its

"immunity level." The higher the immunity level, the greater the protection. At this

time, current technology is capable of achieving at least a 20 V/m immunity level,

which would provide useful protection from the more common sources of radiated

EMI.

There are a number of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the

everyday environment. Some of these sources are obvious and easy to avoid.

Others are not apparent and exposure is unavoidable. However, we believe that by

following the warnings listed below, your risk to EMI will be minimized.

The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types:

1) Hand-held Portable transceivers (transmitters-receivers with the antenna

mounted directly on the transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens band (CB)

radios, "walkie talkie", security, fire and police transceivers, cellular telephones,

and other personal communication devices).

NOTE: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals while they are ON,

even when not being used.

2) Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks,

ambulances and taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of

the vehicle; and

3) Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast

transmitters (radio and TV broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM)

radios.

NOTE: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers,

AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette players, and small appliances, such as elec-

tric shavers and hair dryers, so far as we know, are not likely to cause EMI problems to

your powered wheelchair.

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION

Nutron® Series 16 Part No.1106644

 WARNING

Powered Wheelchair Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the

transmitting antenna (source), the EM fields from hand-held radio wave sources

(transceivers) are of special concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high

levels of EM energy very close to the powered wheelchair's control system while

using these devices. This can affect powered wheelchair movement and braking.

Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible

interference with the control system of the powered wheelchair.

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations,

amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect

powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters.

FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS LISTED BELOW SHOULD REDUCE THE

CHANCE OF UNINTENDED BRAKE RELEASE OR POWERED WHEELCHAIR

MOVEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.

1) Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters receivers), such as citizens

band (CB) radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular

phones, while the powered wheelchair is turned ON;

2) Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid

coming close to them;

3) If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the powered wheelchair

OFF as soon as it is safe;

4) Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the powered

wheelchair, may make it more susceptible to EMI (NOTE: There is no easy way

to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair); and

5) Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the powered

wheelchair manufacturer, and note whether there is a source of EMI nearby.

Important Information

1) 20 volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and useful immunity level

against EMI (as of May 1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection);

2) The immunity level of the product is unknown.

Modification of any kind to the electronics of this wheelchair as manufactured by

Invacare may adversely affect the RFI immunity levels.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Part No.1106644 17 Nutron® Series

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF

WHEELCHAIRS

Safety/Handling of Wheelchairs

“SafetyandHandling”ofthewheelchairrequiresthecloseattentionofthewheelchair

useraswellastheassistant.Thismanualpointsoutthemostcommonproceduresand

techniquesinvolvedinthesafeoperationandmaintenanceofthewheelchair.Itis

importanttopracticeandmasterthesesafetechniquesuntilyouarecomfortablein

maneuveringaroundthefrequentlyencounteredarchitecturalbarriers.

Usethisinformationonlyasa“basic”guide.Thetechniquesthatarediscussedonthe

followingpageshavebeenusedsuccessfullybymany.

Individualwheelchairusersoftendevelopskillstodealwithdailylivingactivitiesthat

maydifferfromthosedescribedinthismanual.Invacarerecognizesandencourageseach

individualtotrywhatworksbestforhim/herinovercomingarchitecturalobstaclesthat

theymayencounter,however,ALLWARNINGSandCAUTIONSgiveninthismanual

MUSTbefollowed.Techniquesinthismanualareastartingpointforthenewwheelchair

userandassistantwith“safety”asthemostimportantconsiderationforall.

Stability and Balance

 WARNING

ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap.

The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a

safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If

signs of wear appear, the belt must be replaced immediately.

Toassurestabilityandproperoperationofyourwheelchair,youmustatalltimes

maintainproperbalance.Yourwheelchairhasbeendesignedtoremainuprightand

stableduringnormaldailyactivitiesaslongasyoudonotmovebeyondthecenterof

gravity.DONOTleanforwardoutofthewheelchairanyfurtherthanthelengthofthe

armrests.

Coping With Everyday Obstacles

Copingwiththeirritationofeverydayobstaclescanbealleviatedsomewhatbylearning

howtomanage yourwheelchair.Keepinmindyourcenterofgravitytomaintainstability

andbalance.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Nutron® Series 18 Part No.1106644

A Note to Wheelchair Assistants

Whenassistancetothewheelchairuserisrequired,remembertousegoodbody

mechanics.Keepyourbackstraightandbendyourkneeswhenevertiltingwheelchairor

traversingcurbs,orotherimpediments.

 WARNING

DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lift-

ing by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in

injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.

Also,beawareofdetachablepartssuchasarmsorleg‐rests.ThesemustNEVERbeused

forhand‐holdorliftingsupports,astheymaybeinadvertentlyreleased,resultingin

possibleinjurytotheuserand/orassistant(s).

Whenlearninganewassistancetechnique,haveanexperiencedassistanthelpyou

before

attemptingitalone.

Tilting

 WARNING

DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without assistance.

Whentiltingthewheelchair,anassistantshouldgraspthebackofthewheelchairona

non‐removable(non‐detachable)part.Informthewheelchairoccupantbeforetiltingthe

wheelchairandremindhim/hertoleanback.Besuretheoccupant’sfeetandhandsare

clearofallwheels.

Tilting - Curbs

Aftermasteringthetechniquesoftiltingthewheelchair,usethisproceduretotackle

curbs,shortstairs,etc.

Thisprocedurerequirestwo(2)assistants.Thesecondassistantshouldbepositionedat

thefrontofthewheelchairliftingupwardonanon‐removable(non‐detachable)partof

thewheelchairframewhenliftingthe

wheelchairandstabilizingthewheelchairwhenthe

wheelchairisbeingloweredtotheground.

Thefirstassistantshouldturntheanti‐tipperssothewheelsarepointingup,applya

continuousdownwardmotionuntilthebalancepointisachievedandthefrontcasters

clearthecurb.Atthispoint,theassistantswillfeeladifferenceintheweightdistribution.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Part No.1106644 19 Nutron® Series

 WARNING

DO NOT let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to the ground. This could result

in injury to the occupant.

Anti-tippers MUST BE used at all times. When outdoors on wet, soft ground or

gravel surfaces, anti-tippers may not provide the same level of protection against

tipover. Extra caution must be observed when traversing such surfaces.

RollthewheelchairforwardandSLOWLYlowerthewheelchairinonecontinuous

movement.Pushthewheelchairforwarduntiltherearwheels rollupandoverthecurb.

 WARNING

Make sure anti-tipper wheels are pointing down toward the ground/floor before

using the wheelchair.

Turntheanti‐tipperwheelsdowntowardtheground/floor.

Stairways

 WARNING

DO NOT attempt to move an occupied power wheelchair between floors using a

stairway. Use an elevator to move an occupied power wheelchair between floors. If

moving a power wheelchair between floors by means of a stairway, the occupant

MUST be removed and transported independently of the power wheelchair.

Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an unoccupied power

wheelchair up or down the stairs. Invacare recommends using two (2) assistants and

making thorough preparations. Make sure to use only secure, non-detachable parts

for hand-hold supports.

DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts.

Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in

injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.

The weight of the wheelchair without the user and batteries is between 80 and 127

lbs. Use proper lifting techniques (lift with your legs) to avoid injury.

1. Removetheoccupantfromthewheelchair.

2. Removethebatteryboxesfromthewheelchair.RefertoInstalling/Removingthe

BatteryBoxesonpage 49.

3. Ifnecessary,foldthewheelchair.RefertoTransportingtheNutron

onpage 69.

4. Bendyourkneesandkeepyourbackstraight.

5. Usingnon‐removable(non‐detachable)partsofthewheelchair,liftthewheelchairoff

ofthegroundandtransferthewheelchairupordownthestairs.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS

Nutron® Series 20 Part No.1106644

6. Thewheelchairshouldnotbelowereduntilthelaststairhasbeennegotiatedandthe

wheelchairhasbeencarriedawayfromthestairway.

Escalators

 WARNING

DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily

injury may occur.

Transferring To and From Other Seats

 WARNING

ALWAYS turn the wheelchair power OFF and engage the clutches to prevent the

wheels from moving before attempting to transfer in or out of the wheelchair. Also

make sure every precaution is taken to reduce the gap distance by turning both

casters parallel to the object you are transferring onto.

 CAUTION

When transferring, position yourself as far back as possible in the seat. This will pre-

vent broken screws, damaged upholstery and the possibility of the wheelchair tip-

ping forward.

NOTE:Forthisprocedure,refertoFIGURE 3.1.

NOTE:Thisactivitymaybeperformed

independentlyprovidedyouhaveadequate

mobilityandupperbodystrength.

1. Positionthewheelchairascloseas

possiblealongsidetheseattowhich

youaretransferring,withthecasters

pointingparalleltoit.

2. Engageclutches.Referto

Engaging/Disengaging

theClutcheson

page 63.

3. Shiftbodyweightintoseatwith

transfer.

FIGURE 3.1 Transferring To and From

Other Seats

Duringindependenttransfer,littleornoseatplatformwillbebeneathyou.Useatransfer

boardifatallpossible.

MINIMUM GAP DISTANCE

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Invacare Nutron R32, Nutron R32LX, Nutron Series Operating & Maintenance Manual

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