Imagine a world where people with limited mobility are free to explore, socialize, and take on life’s adventures. Electric wheelchairs have revolutionized the way people with physical disabilities explore the world around them, giving them newfound freedom and independence. However, what do electric wheelchairs run on? Below, JBH Medical will discuss the power source of electric wheelchairs.
Power Source of Electric Wheelchairs
Batteries
The main power source for electric wheelchairs is batteries. These batteries are usually rechargeable and can be charged by an external power source. Electric wheelchairs usually use various types of batteries, including lead-acid batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and lithium-ion batteries.
Lead-acid batteries: This type of battery is the traditional choice and is relatively low in price, but it is heavy and has a short service life.
Ni-Cd batteries: Ni-Cd batteries have a high charge cycle life, but are not environmentally friendly and are gradually being replaced by other types of batteries.
Ni-MH batteries: Ni-MH batteries are more environmentally friendly than Ni-Cd batteries, have higher energy density, and have a longer service life.
Li-ion batteries: Li-ion batteries are one of the most popular types of batteries in electric wheelchairs today, with advantages such as high energy density, light weight, and long service life.
Motor
In addition to the battery, a key component of an electric wheelchair is the motor. The motor of an electric wheelchair is usually a DC motor that drives the wheels by controlling the flow of electric current. The motor of an electric wheelchair can have different power and performance characteristics depending on the design and needs.
As you can see, electric wheelchairs usually have a battery pack to provide power to the motor. The battery can be recharged by plugging into an electrical outlet. The motor drives the wheels of the wheelchair, allowing the user to move forward, backward, turn, and traverse different terrains.
Electric wheelchairs offer a variety of benefits, including greater mobility and independence for people who have difficulty walking or operating a manual wheelchair. Electric wheelchairs are equipped with a variety of features, such as adjustable seats, reclining functions, and additional accessories for comfort and convenience.
Electric wheelchairs come in a variety of models and sizes to suit individual needs. Some models are designed for indoor use and can be nimble in small spaces, while others are more rugged and suitable for outdoor use, with enhanced stability and all-terrain capabilities.
Electric wheelchairs use two types of drive mechanisms
Indirect drive and direct drive systems
Traditional electric wheelchairs use an indirect drive system （pulleys and drive belts）， while electric base wheelchairs use a direct drive system （gearbox）。 The vast majority of modern electric wheelchairs use a motorized base with a direct drive system. Typically, two 12-volt batteries connected in series （24 volts total） are required to power the electric wheelchair. Electric wheelchairs can use wet cells, gel cells, or absorbent glass mat （AGM） batteries. Electric wheelchair batteries are usually rechargeable.
Position of the drive wheels of an electric wheelchair
There are three types of electric wheelchairs: front-wheel drive, mid-wheel drive, and rear-wheel drive.
Traditionally, rear-wheel drive electric wheelchairs have been more popular because they are similar to manual wheelchairs in design and maneuverability. However, mid-wheel drive wheelchairs are becoming more popular because they are more maneuverable.
By understanding the power source and drive mechanism of an electric wheelchair, we can better choose an electric wheelchair brand. If you would like to learn more about electric wheelchairs, please feel free to contact us: JBH Medical.
