P·12
3.2. ELECTRIC/ELECTRONIC SYSTEM
3.2.1. Protection of the electric/electronic system
The electronic command system of the chair is equipped with a current control device in
order to avoid a deterioration of circuits in the case of a surcharge.
While the motors are subject to significant efforts over prolonged periods, the power
provided by the device is progressively reduced to avoid overheating. This reduction of power
may continue to the point of completely stopping the chair. This phenomenon happens more
rapidly in hotter atmospheric conditions. It may, in such cases, require several minutes to
regain maximum power.
When the path is blocked by an impassable obstacle and the user insists, forcing the motor
to stall for more than 20 seconds, the electronic system automatically cuts the power.
3.2.2. Fuse
As well as the protection described in the previous paragraph the wheelchair’s entire electronic
system is protected against overload by a fuse situated between the two batteries. The fuse
should not blow during normal use. However, this may happen in cases of weak batteries
and/or excessive loads.
Only replace the fuse after a complete verification of the entire electronic system (paragraph
V Replacing the batteries).
3.2.3. Batteries
The chair is powered by two 12V batteries. The batteries contain an electrolyte gel. The
batteries are sealed, present no risk of seepage and require no maintenance.
They were designed to be uncharged for a long time, this is not the case for automobile
batteries which thusly cannot replace them.
Before the first use it is necessary to completely charge the new batteries. They will attain
a 90% charge. The new batteries will only attain full power after approximately 10 charges.
The speed of battery discharge depends on a number of parameters : gradient and condition
of the terrain, temperature, tyre pressure, weight of the driver, driving mode etc.
The gel batteries are not considered to be a dangerous product and may be transported
by road, ferry or plane.
It is recommended to charge the chair every day. Recharge the chair even if the batteries
have not lost their whole charge, it has no ill effect on the longevity of the batteries.
