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14. Using the wheelchair as a vehicle seat
The Esprit is an add-on drive, which can be attached to a large number of different wheelchair models.
The Esprit has been successfully crash tested with a series of different wheelchair types as per ISO 7176-19 for transportation in a vehicle
(bus, van, ...). These tests showed that in the event of an accident, the Esprit does not endanger the occupants of the vehicle during
such tests.
In these exemplary tests, it was also possible to show that during such tests the Esprit does also not endanger wheelchair users if used in
combination with appropriately tested important safety devices such as headrests and a suitable belt system in place.
For transportation in a vehicle, the Esprit needs to be combined with a wheelchair that meets the requirements of ISO 7176-19 in order
to function as a car seat. A wheelchair that meets the requirements of ISO 7176-19 has appropriately marked hooks, so-called tie-down
adapters, which are always to be used in combination with suitable restraint systems for securing the wheelchair. If in doubt, contact
should be made with the specialist dealer or the manufacturer of the wheelchair.
Due to the many influencing factors and constraints described above, the decision to sit in a wheelchair with the Esprit attached during
the trip is always made following consultation between the wheelchair user and the driver of the vehicle. In the event of any uncertainty,
the specialist dealer and/or the manufacturer of the wheelchair should also be consulted.
If such doubts cannot be dispelled, we recommend transferring the wheelchair user to the car seat.
Excessive tensioning/lashing of the system in the vehicle and the forces initiated thereby, particularly during dynamic cornering, which
amount to the weight of the person sitting in the wheelchair during the trip, can result in damage to the Alber add-on drive, especially to
the stub axle, over a prolonged period of time. This type of damage is not covered by the warranty or guarantee.
If the wheelchair with the Esprit attached is used as a vehicle seat, the battery pack must be removed and be stowed
in a safe place.
15. Your Contact Person (USA only)
If you have problems with the Esprit components (including the battery-pack and the charger) please contact your local dealer or
Alber USA LLC
1005 International Drive
Oakdale, PA 15071-922
United States
Phone 001-724-6957822
Fax 0017246953710
E-Mail: [email protected]
