61
Issue 10
User tips
Fig. 61
Fig. 62
Gradients: ascents
When going uphill, keep the chair moving.
Keep the joystick pushed well forward
and steer by moving it from side to side.
If you have stopped on a hill, then you
should start slowly, and if necessary lean
forward to obviate the tendency for the
front wheels to lift (Fig. 61).
Gradients: descents
On descents, it is important not to let the
wheelchair accelerate beyond its normal
level of ground speed. In fact, it is safer
to proceed slowly down steep descents
and stop immediately if any anxiety arises
regarding directional control. If the chair
picks up speed, centre the control to slow
it or to stop all forward movement, then
restart slowly and do not allow the speed
to increase. The solid state controller has
the benefit of a logic system, that will help
compensate when driving along a camber
or up a hill. This is an added safety feature
on your wheelchair. In addition of course,
you may control the wheelchair speed by
using the speed control (Fig. 62).
Gradients: Seat riser option
Avoid dangerous driving situations when
the riser is in a raised position, such as
trying to overcome obstacles like kerbs or
driving up or down gradients.