Choosing a Mobility Scooter - Part 1
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Introduction
A powered scooter is a good alternative to a wheelchair for many people with limited mobility. Scooters are more attractive to many people than wheelchairs, are often lighter, more compact and have better maneuverability. We look at the features of mobility scooters, their appropriateness as mobility aids and some information about choosing the right scooter for your needs.
Construction
Electric mobility scooters in general feature a base unit or wheeled platform containing the drive unit and batteries, a seat at the rear and controls and handrests on a column at the front. Scooters have either three of four wheels and either front or rear wheel drive. Rear wheel drives are much better for rugged terrain or steep inclines. The base unit is made from aluminium, steel or a fiberglass or composite floor with a composite frame. A cover over the front wheel and drive head may be included and may also be used as a housing for the dashboard instruments. The turning radius, ground clearance and size are important when considering the maneuverability of the scooter.
Comfort and Safety
When choosing a mobility scooter the base unit must be looked at to ensure that the needs of the user will be met. Enough floor space should be provided to accomodate the feet comfortably and the controls must be easy to reach and easy to use. This is particularly important if the user is tall or very short! Some models have different base dimensions to accomodate taller or shorter riders and some have extra footrests to accomodate a user who wears leg braces or has limited ability to bend the legs.
Safety Features
The overall stability of the base is important as it will be used on inclines and for sharp turns. Wheels with anti-tip mechanisms are recommended to stablise the scooter during these maneuvers. Rear wheel drive scooters, built for more rugged terrain and steeper hills than front-wheel drive scooters, usually have rear anti-tip mechanisms.
Drive Train
Front Wheel Drive Models
Mobility scooters have either front wheel drive or rear wheel drive. Front wheel drive scooters are manufactured primarily for indoor use or for outdoor use on smooth surfaces. The motor is smaller than for rear drive model and is mounted over the front wheel. It has a direct drive unit to drive only the front wheel. Front wheel drive scooters therefore are not recommended for rougher terrain or hills and have more difficulty with curbs than a rear wheel drive model. They also tend to be slower and have a shorter range. They are however smaller and more maneuverable than a rear wheel drive model, take up less room and more likely to be compatible with wheelchair lifts on vans or cars.
Rear Wheel Drive Models
These models have a motor connected to the rear axle and, combined with the weight of the user, batteries and motor over the rear wheels give better traction on uneven terrain. They have more powerful motors than the front wheel drive models and have a much better climbing ability and range between charges. They can also accommodate a larger user weight capacity and have a higher maximum speed. Disadvantages include their size. They have a wider base and are less maneuverable than the smaller front wheel drive models and are less likely to be usable indoors or to be compatible with wheelchair lifts.
Brakes
On rear wheel drive models electro mechanical or electronic brakes systems are generally used. When pressure is released on the controls the brakes are engaged to slow then stop the vehicle. The brakes are always engaged when the scooter is not being driven forward or in reverse to prevent any movement. In addition, when the brakes are engaged the battery is recharged by diverting excess power to the batteries. A release lever or clutch is also provided to allow the scooter to be pushed by manually disengaging the brakes when required. Some models also have disc brakes either instead of the electronic brake system or in combination with it. Front wheel drive models are not generally equipped with electronic brake systems and have a parking brake applied manually to the rear wheel. A parking brake may also be included, or as an optional extra, for the rear wheel drive models.
Batteries
Scooters generally have either 12 volt or 24 volt systems with either one or two batteries to provide power. Front wheel drive models are usually 12 volt systems with toe 6 volt or one 12 volt battery. Add on units are sometimes provided as optional extras to increase the range of the scooter. Rear wheel models generally have 24 volt systems with two 12 volt batteries.
The batteries have a lifetime of between twelve and eighteen months and are pf the ‘deep cycle’ type. This means they are designed be recharged and discharged regularly and to give a steady power supply. Car and boat batteries are designed to give shorter power bursts and are ’starter’ batteries so are not suitable for use in electric scooters and should never be used.
Many scooters manufacturers provide batteries as an optional extra although a battery charger is usually included. The type of charger will dtermine the type of battery used. Electric acooters use either lead-acid batteries or gel cell batteries so it is important to ensure the correct battery is purchased. Some battery chargers are capable of charging either type of battery. The charger may be built into the scooter base or be an independant unit. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. An onboard charger is more convenient in use but if in need of repair will require the scooter itself to be taken to a repairer. Independant chargers need extra equipment to be carried around but repair is easier. Batteries can be removed from the scooter for charging, while leaving the scooter in a van or other transport.
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