20 | Espire Elbow Technical Manual - Classic Plus, Classic and Basic
Espire Elbow Technical Manual - Classic Plus, Classic and Basic | 21
SECTION 9 -
SETTING UP THE
COUNTERBALANCE OR SPRING
ASSIST
9.1 Counterbalance and Spring Assist Overview
Depending on which model you are using, the Espire will include
either a counterbalance or spring assist mechanism:
Espire Model
Lift Compensation Aid
Classic Plus, Classic
Counterbalance
Basic
Spring Assist
Both the counterbalance and spring assist aid in flexion and
extension of the Espire Elbow. Different amounts of tension are
necessary based on the elbow’s overall length, the weight of the
terminal device, and the type of clothing worn.
Note: The counterbalance and spring assist
mechanisms are not removable or field-serviceable. Do
not attempt to disassemble or modify the unit.
Adjustment Dial Location
The adjustment dial can be installed on either the medial or
lateral side of the elbow and should be specified at the time of
ordering. Medial placement is the typical location.
The dial is identical for both counterbalance and spring assist.
However, these mechanisms adjust in opposite directions (see
sections 9.2 and 9.3).
Note: Adjustments are easier to make when the
forearm is flexed.
Caution: Be aware that if the adjustment dial is at
maximum tension and the arm is raised to a horizontal
level, the elbow could suddenly flex.
Caution: To prevent injury, users should ensure the
elbow is in the maximum flexed position when donning
or doffing.
Adjustment Dial
Example: left arm with medial
adjustment location
9.2 Counterbalance Adjustment
Direction
Adjustment
Result
Turn the dial
posteriorly
to increase the
counterbalance weight.
Note:
Elbow cannot be
over-adjusted in this
direction, it will simply
reach maximum flexion.
Supports
more load on
the elbow
Turn the dial
anteriorly
to decrease the
counterbalance weight.
Note:
Elbow will spring
back into flexion
according to how much
spring lift assist is put into
the system if it exceeds
the minimum adjustment.
Supports
less load on
the elbow
9.3 Spring Assist Adjustment
Direction
Adjustment
Result
Turn the dial
anteriorly
to
increase the spring assist
weight.
Note:
Elbow cannot be
over-adjusted in this
direction, it will simply
reach maximum flexion.
Supports
more load on
the elbow
Turn the dial
posteriorly
to decrease the spring
assist weight.
Note:
Elbow will spring
back into flexion
according to how much
spring lift assist is put into
the system if it exceeds
the minimum adjustment.
Supports
less load on
the elbow
Note: The direction of adjustment would be opposite
if on the lateral aspect of the elbow. There is a sticker
that ind or – on the dial to indicate more or less
assist to lift.
