AAT C-max Installation and operating instructions

C-max 160 kg
Translation of the original user’s manual
Stair Climbing System

CE Declaration of conformity
The company AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH herewith declares that the
products of the stair climbing system C-max were developed and manufac-
tured in concordance with the current regulations of the European Union,
EEC Guidelines 93/42/EG, 2007/47/EG and 2006/42/EG.
This declaration becomes void if the above mentioned devices have been al-
tered without the consent of AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH.
Signature of the manufacturer:
Markus Alber
Managing shareholder
AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH
The stair climbing system C-max has been
successfully tested and certified according
to the standard design for stair climbing
vehicles ISO 7176-23 and DIN EN 12182
at the Technical University of Berlin,
Berlin-Cert.
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c-max 160 kg
AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH
P.O. Box 10 05 60 · D-72426 Albstadt
Tel.: +49 - 74 31 - 12 95 0 · Fax.: 12 95 35
[e-mail] · www.aat-online.de
c-max_u1_160kg_gb_06/2012

Table of contents
CE Declaration of conformity ............ 2
Table of contents ................. 3
1 General information..................... 5
1.1 How to use this user's manual ........... 5
1.2 Instruction .................... 5
1.3 Care and maintenance ............... 5
1.4 Warranty and liability................ 5
2 Description of the product.................. 6
2.1 Adequate use ................... 6
2.2 Features of the C-max ............... 7
2.3 Technical data................... 8
2.4 Dimensioned sketch ................ 9
2.5 Standard scope of delivery ............. 10
2.6 Optional accessories ................ 10
3 Assembly.......................... 11
3.1 Attach the back rest to the climbing frame ..... 11
3.2 Affix the back rest ................. 11
3.3 Attach the C-part plus seat to the climbing frame . . 11
3.4 Affix the C-part .................. 11
3.5 Helix cable .................... 12
3.6 Attach the battery pack............... 12
3.7 Detach the battery pack .............. 12
3.8 Arm rests ..................... 13
3.9 Handles ...................... 13
3.10 Functional check ................. 13
4 Safety instructions ..................... 14
4.1 Special information concerning the operation .... 14
4.2 Instruction .................... 15
4.3 Safety brakes ................... 15
4.4 Lining of the climbing foot ............. 15
4.5 Lifting capacity .................. 15
4.6 Care and maintenance ............... 15
4.7 Condition of paths, walkways etc. .......... 15
4.8 Charge of the batteries ............... 16
4.9 Climbing mechanism ................ 16
4.10 Transport ..................... 16
5 Operation ......................... 17
5.1 Maximum lifting capacity .............. 17
5.2 Control light .................... 17
5.3 Helix cable connector ............... 17
5.4 Battery pack .................... 17
5.5 Safety brakes ................... 17
5.6 Lining of the climbing foot ............. 17
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c-max 160 kg

6 Instructions for operation .................. 18
6.1 Control unit .................... 18
6.2 Single step control ................. 19
6.3 Climbers ..................... 20
6.4 Safety brakes ................... 20
6.5 Transportation of a person with the C-max ...... 21
6.6 Operation on level ground ............. 22
6.7 Adjust the handles ................. 22
6.8 Tilting the stair climbing system .......... 23
6.9 Operation on slopes ................ 23
6.10 Climbing upstairs ................. 24
6.11 Climbing downstairs ................ 27
6.12 Laying the C-max on the stairs ........... 29
6.13 Transport ..................... 30
6.14 Trouble shooting .................. 30
7 Accessories ........................ 31
7.1 Battery pack .................... 31
7.2 Charging cable for your vehicle ........... 31
8 Care, maintenance and recycling .............. 32
8.1 New user ..................... 32
8.2 Charger ...................... 32
8.3 Battery pack .................... 33
8.4 Fuses ....................... 35
8.5 Check brake lining ................. 36
8.6 Check the lining of the climbing foot ........ 36
8.7 Cleaning ..................... 37
8.8 Recycling ..................... 37
9 Warranty and liability .................... 38
9.1 Warranty ..................... 38
9.2 Liability ...................... 38
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c-max 160 kg

1 General information
Congratulations! With the acquisition of this stair climbing system you have
a device that will quickly become a reliable and indispensable partner in
transporting physically disabled people.
With the C-max you are able to transport one person safely and effortlessly
up- and downstairs; even winding stairs are no problem for the C-max. Dri-
ving on slopes is also possible. The safety brakes on both sides of the C-max
ensure your safety.
Naturally the C-max is also suitable to drive on level ground. The device is
lightweight, flexible and does not take up much space.
The c-max is capable of climbing stairs up to a step heigth of 21 cm. The mi-
nimum depth of the step’s surface must be 14 cm, regardless of the type of
stairs (regular straight stairs or winding stairs).
The necessary step width concerning straight stairs is the width of the c-max
plus an extra 10 cm for manoeuvring.
The minimum platform size for u-shaped stairs depends on factors such as
the attendant's height, etc. Your AAT representative or your authorized dea-
ler are happy to advise you.
The sticker with the device's serial number is located on the left side of the
housing. Read the number here.
1.1 How to use this user's manual
The user’s manual is part of the delivery package and instruct you step by
step about the safe and adequate use of the c-max. Operating the c-max ta-
kes a certain skill.
Please read this user’s manual carefully and particularly take note of the sa-
fety instructions before you use the c-max for the first time.
After reading, please store this user’s manual at an appropriate place for
further reference.
1.2 Instruction
In the interest of your safety the c-max may only be operated by trained per-
sonnel.
Instruction on how to operate the device is part of the delivery package and
takes place with your authorized dealer or an AAT representative.
FPlease read this user’s manual carefully and particularly take note of
the safety instructions before you use the C-max for the first time.
1.3 Care and maintenance
One of the most important aspects concerning the maintenance of the C-max
is charging the sealed lead acid batteries. They are part of the battery pack
and must be charged every time after using the device.
Other than that your C-max does not need much care or maintenance. More
extensive instructions you find in chapter 8.
1.4 Warranty and liability
For damage that was caused by inadequate use disregarding this manual we
assume no liability whatsoever. (Please read chapter 9 for more detailed in-
formation concerning warranty and liability).
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c-max 160 kg

2 Description of the product
2.1 Adequate use
Please use the C-max exclusively for the transportation of physically disab-
led persons.
Said persons should be able to sit properly without help, otherwise you
should secure them with a safety belt. The latter is an accessory available at
AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH.
In addition, the arms of the person to be transported should not protrude
over the arm rests during the transportation process.
FIn the interest of your safety you may not use the stair climbing devi-
ce C-max on escalators or moving belts!
FTransporting other kinds of loads is explicitly prohibited!
FOnly authorized operators may use the c-max. Therefore never leave
the c-max unattended.
FPlease do not use the c-max in rain, slippery and wet conditions,
snow or ice due to the following potential safety hazards, e.g. danger
of slipping restricted braking effect etc.
FDue to safety reasons the c-max may only be operated by trained per-
sonnel who are physically and intellectually capable to handle the
device in all situations of operation.
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c-max 160 kg
Mastering stairs
Driving on level ground
Driving on slopes

2.2 Features of the C-max
1 = control unit
2 = handles, adjustable
3 = back rest
4 = arm rest, swivels out
5 = C-part plus seat
6 = climbing frame
7 = foot rest, folds in
8 = main wheel
9 = lever with chain drive
10 = climber and climbing foot
11 = safety brake
12 = climbing unit
13 = battery pack
14 = tightening knobs for the back rest
15 = single step switch
16 = tightening knob for the handle
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c-max 160 kg

2.3 Technical data
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c-max 160 kg
measurements
height = min. 1090 mm - max. 1440 mm
width without arm rests = 440 mm
width with arm rests attached = 485 mm
depth with the foot rest folded in = 730 mm
depth with the foot rest folded out = 915 mm
weight
climbing frame = 18,1 kg, C part plus seat = 5,5 kg, back rest = 4,5 kg,
both arm rests = 1,2 kg, battery pack = 4,1 kg, charger = 0,3 kg
total weight = 33,7 kg
total weight approved 190 kg
max. weight of the person 160 kg
climbing speed 8 - 23 steps / minute, continually adjustable
range with one charge of the batteries
on average load of 75 kg ca. 25 levels (equates 375 steps)
range with one charge of the batteries
on maximum load ca. 7 levels (equates 105 steps)
maximum height of step 21 cm
batteries 2 x 12V/5Ah sealed lead acid
direct current motor 24 V / 275 W
operating force UP/DOWN-switch 3-8 N
noise level the device’s A weighted noise level lies typically below 70 dB (A)
storing/operating temperature,device 0°Cupto+60°C/-30°Cupto+50°C
storing/operating temperature,batteries 0°Cupto+60°C/-30°Cupto+50°C
vibrations the weighted RMS value of acceleration the upper body is exposed to
lies typically below 2.5 m/s²

2.4 Dimensioned sketch
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c-max 160 kg
15.0°
Height: min. 1090 - 1440 mm
80°
225
500
430
915
390
730
350
5°
Depth of
the seat: 410
215
Width of
the seat: 460

1
23 4 5 6
6
54
321 789
2.5 Standard scope of delivery
1 = charger including instructions
2 = battery pack
3 = arm rests
4 = back rest
5 = C-part
6 = climbing unit
plus the user's manual
2.6 Optional accessories
1 = head rest
2 = charging cable for the car
3 = widened arm rests
4 = seat belt system including hip belt
5 = hip belt
6 = children’s foot rest
7 = extended / shortened foot rest
8 = increase of climbing height
9 = inclination indicator
10 = extended handles (not illustrated)
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c-max 160 kg

3 Assembly
With a few movements you can assemble the C-max by means of several fix-
tures and tightening knobs. Disassembly is just as easy.
3.1 Attach the back rest to the climbing frame
Put the back rest onto the guide pins on top of the climbing frame.
3.2 Affix the back rest
Fix the back rest tightly to the climbing frame with the two tightening knobs.
FAlways make sure that the back rest is securely fastened to the clim-
bing frame.
3.3 Attach the C-part plus seat to the climbing frame
Put the C-part plus seat onto the climbing frame; the locating bolts of the
C-part fit into the corresponding holes in the frame.
3.4 Affix the C-part
Fix the C-part tightly to the climbing frame with the two tightening knobs.
FAlways make sure that the C-part plus seat is securely fastened to the
climbing frame.
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c-max 160 kg

3.5 Helix cable
Put the connector of the helix cable into its socket located on the climbing
unit's housing. Lock the connector by pushing up the latching.
FBe catious that neither connector nor socket become wet by e.g. wa-
ter or snow - this may cause a short circuit between pins and result in
severe malfunction of the system.
3.6 Attach the battery pack
Push the battery pack into its fixture by means of the guiding pins on top of
the climbing unit's housing. This establishes the power connection and
locks the battery pack.
3.7 Detach the battery pack
Unlock the battery pack by pressing the release button on top of the battery
pack until it engages.Then lift out the battery pack.
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c-max 160 kg

3.8 Arm rests
Insert arm rests on both sides.
FPlease always make sure that the stop bolts snap in their appropriate
notches.
3.9 Handles
Adjust handles to the appropriate height on both sides (see chapter 6.7)
then fasten them with the tightening knobs .
FAfter adjusting the handles, always make sure that they are securely
fastened.
3.10 Functional check
FPlease check the safety brakes each time before using the device
(see chapter 6.4 and 8.5)!
FPlease also check the safety brakes’ braking effect as described in
chapter 6.4.1 and 6.4.2!
FPlease check the device’s electronic functions each time before
using it (see chapter 6.10 and 6.11)!
FRegularly check whether the climbing feet’s linings are still suffi-
cient (see chapter 8.6)
FMake sure that the battery pack is charged before you use the devi-
ce!
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c-max 160 kg

4 Safety instructions
FFor a safe operation of the C-max it is important that you observe and
adhere to all warning signs and instructions in this user’s manual as
well as the warning signs and instructions on the device itself.
4.1 Special information concerning the operation: Due to safety rea-
sons the stair climber c-max may not be used on escalators and moving
walkways!
4.1.1 Environmental conditions, electro-magnetic compatibility: Elec-
tro-magnetic compatibility means that an electric device functions properly
in its electro-magnetic environment without influencing other devices in the
same environment.
Warning: Radio wave sources may affect powered device control!
Radio wave source, such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio (HAM)
transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones, can affect your c-max.
Following the warning listed below should reduce the chance of unintended
brake release or movement, which could result in serious injury.
FDo not turn ON hand-held personal communication devices, such as
citizens band (CB) radios and cellular phones, while the c-max is tur-
ned ON.
FBe aware of nearby transmitter, such as radio or TV stations, and try
to avoid coming close to them.
FIf unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the powered
c-max OFF as soon as it is safe.
FBe aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the
c-max, may take it more susceptible to interference from radio wave
sources (Note: There is no easy way to evaluate their effect on the
overall immunity to the c-max).
FReport all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the
c-max manufacturer, and note whether there is a radio wave source
nearby.
Important EMI-Information:
F20 Volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and useful immu-
nity level against interference from radio wave sources (as of May
1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection).
FThis device has an immunity level of 20 V/m with no accessories
connected to the device.
FNevertheless, always check whether the device’s electronic
functions work properly before each use. This is particularly impor-
tant if there is an aerial mast nearby.
FPlease note that the c-max may interfere with other electronic
devices’ sensitive electro-magnetic fields (e.g. anti-theft systems in
department stores). This may also happen if you connect other devi-
ces.
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c-max 160 kg

FAlso make sure that the c-max is not operated in close proximity to
medical devices with a high potential for danger and/or life-suppor-
ting functions as well as diagnostic devices.
4.1.2 Climate: To ensure proper functioning it is not advisable to expose
the c-max to freezing conditions. Should this be unavoidable, always put the
device in a non-freezing environment for at least one hour before using it.
4.2 Instruction: The C-max may only be operated by trained personnel.
In addition, the operator should be capable of lifting 1/3 of his or her own
weight. Minors are not allowed to use the C-max; exempt from the above are
adolescents over 16 years of age who have been trained under supervision to
operate the C-max. While using the C-max you should always wear good shoes
that do not slip.
4.3 Safety brakes: Please check the safety brakes each time before
using the C-max (see also chapter 6.4 and 8.5). The safety brakes, particu-
larly the knurled surface of the brake drums in the wheel rims, must be clea-
ned weekly or after contamination with spirit to ensure the optimum braking
effect.
FNever smoke during the cleaning of the device as well as keep it
away from ignition source.
FPlease consider the danger warning of the manufacturer previous
cleaning the device with spirit.
FNever use suds or greasy cleaners.
After cleaning the safety brakes must be checked as described in chapter
6.4
4.4 Lining of the climbing foot: Please check regularly whether the li-
ning of each climbing foot is still sufficient (see chapter 8.6).
4.5 Lifting capacity: The approved total weight of 190 kg and the max.
weight of the person of 160 kg may not be exceeded. Please also read chap-
ter 5.1.
You may under no circumstances use the C-max to transport goods.
4.6 Care and maintenance: Please make sure that you charge the bat-
tery pack after each use of the C-max.
If the c-max is not in operation, please turn off the device .
If the working elements of the device block, turn the C-max off immediately.
FRepairs may only be done by authorized dealers or the manufacturer
only. Please exclusively use AAT Alber parts and accessories.
Please note the extensive care and maintenance instructions in chapter 8.
4.7 Condition of paths, walkways etc.: Please make sure that the paths
and walkways you use with the C-max are free of obstacles and not slippery.
Avoid operation on damaged stair linings, snow, ice, etc.
FThe C-max may not be used in wet and rainy conditions.
4.7.1. Environmental conditions: Although the c-max has been tested for
its electro-magnetic compatibility, you should still check its electronic
functions before each use. This is particularly important if there is an aerial
mast nearby.
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c-max 160 kg

4.8 Charge of the batteries: You should only use the C-max with fully
charged batteries. In case the batteries run low on the stairs (a sequence of
2 flashes repeated every 2.5 seconds) the available charge of the batteries is
sufficient to transport the person safely to the bottom of the stairs. Driving
downstairs the motor works as a generator, thus recharging the batteries.
The potential steps downward, therfore, are not limited.
4.9 Climbing mechanism: Please make sure that during the climbing
process your hands and feet are in no way close to the rotating area. Always
keep a safe distance.
4.10 Transport:
FMake sure you never lift the device at the frame (see chapter 6.13).
FAlways turn off the c-max for transportation!
FWhen you transport the device in vehicles, please secure it according
to the relevant legal regulations in your country.
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c-max 160 kg

5 Operation
5.1 Maximum lifting capacity
Please make sure that the maximum weight of the person of 160 kg is not
exceeded.
5.2 Control light
After turning on the device, the control light should light up and stay on.
Flashing of the control light indicates malfunction.
Further information on malfunction you find in chapter 6.1.6
5.3 Helix cable connector
Check whether the connector of the helix cable is plugged into the hou-
sing of the climbing unit and locked each time before you use the C-max.
5.4 Battery pack
Please make sure that the sealed lead acid batteries are fully charged be-
fore you use the C-max for the first time.
Extensive instructions you find in chapter 8.3.
5.5 Safety brakes
Before operating the C-max check the safety brakes every single time. Ex-
tensive instructions you find in chapter 6.4.
5.6 Lining of the climbing foot
Please check regularly whether the lining on each climbing foot is still
sufficient.
Further instructions you find in chapter 8.6.
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c-max 160 kg

6 Instructions for operation
Before we get to the actual instructions for operation, we would like to intro-
duce the C-max’s most important components to you:
6.1 Control unit
The control unit is situated on the right handle and consists of an UP/DOWN
switch , a speed control , a safety chip for the engine immobiliser and
an ON/OFF switch .
FIt is possible to supply you with a left-handed control for additional
charge.
6.1.1 ON/OFF switch
If the C-max is not in operation, please turn the device off.
FThe C-max is equipped with a turn-off feature: if the device is on and
has not been used for 5 minutes, the turn off feature switches the
c-max off automatically. In such case you can only use the c-max
again by pressing the ON/OFF switch.
FShould you have opted for the inclination indicator, it will also be au-
tomatically activated when you turn on your c-max.
6.1.2 Inclination indicator (optional)
If you wish the c-max can be equipped with an inclination sensor. Should
you hold the device at an angle that is too high or too low, you will feel a vi-
bration in the handle. The vibration increases the more you diverge from the
ideal angle.
If the handle does not vibrate you are within the ideal inclination angle to
operate the c-max with ease.
If your c-max has been equipped with this feature at your choice, it will vi-
brate for a few seconds every time you turn on the device. This is to tell you
that the inclination indicator is active. Should this initial vibration not oc-
cur, please contact your authorized dealer or AAT Alber Antriebstechnik
GmbH.
6.1.3 UP/DOWN switch
With the UP/DOWN switch you activate the climbing mechanism up- or
downstairs.
6.1.4 Speed control
The speed control enables you to adjust the speed continuously.
When you use the C-max for the first time, please choose the lowest speed.
6.1.5 Safety Chip for the engine immobiliser
The UP/DOWN switch only works if you put the safety chip for the engine im-
mobiliser into its slot. Please make sure that the chip is properly set to ensu-
re safe and continuous operation.
If you do not put in the chip you can turn on the c-max, but you cannot drive
with it. This feature makes sure that no unauthorized person uses the devi-
ce.
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c-max 160 kg

I
6.1.6 Control light to indicate malfunction
After turning on the C-max the green control light (LED) lights up and re-
mains lit, which indicates that the stair climbing system is in order and rea-
dy to use.
Potential malfunction is indicated by a light diode. After a period of 3 se-
conds each time a blinking signal is repeated.
In case of malfunction, turn the device first off and then on again. If there is
still an indication of malfunction, charge the batteries in case of low battery
charge. For all other cases of malfunction, please contact your authorized
dealer.
6.2 Single step control
The single step switch is located on the climbing frame (see pictures).
Please activate the single step mode to practise and in particular to climb
winding stairs.
If you activate the ON/OFF switch in that mode, the device will climb only
one step at a time. The climbing system stops in the correct position, even if
you press the ON/OFF switch continuously.
The climbing mechanism cannot unintentionally be activated. You can take
your time to move the main wheels to the next step’s edge.
FTo continue climbing you simply release the UP/DOWN switch and
then press it again.
The arrows with the dotted line symbolize the interruption of the climbing
process, i.e. the single step mode is activated. To do that you press the ro-
cker switch on I. By contrast, if you press the rocker switch on Oit signifies
the uninterrupted climbing process, i.e. the single step mode is OFF.
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c-max 160 kg
LED is blinking Identified malfunction
1 overload of the device
2 battery pack, undervoltage
3 overvoltage
4 UP/DOWN switch or its supply line is damaged
5 defective electromagnetic brake
6 malfunction of electronics

6.3 Climbers
The climbers (see picture) must be pulled in to topmost position by means
of the UP/DOWN switch if you want to:
•drive on level ground and on slopes
•check the safety brakes
•begin climbing upstairs or downstairs
However, you need to fold out the climbers by activating the UP/DOWN
switch, direction up, whenever a person takes a seat in the c-max, so the de-
vice is supported by the climbers (please also see chapter 6.5.1).
6.4 Safety brakes
There are safety brakes located on the climbing frame on both sides.
FPlease check the safety brakes each time before you use the C-max.
You may check the brake effect either on top of the stairs or on level ground
as described in 6.4.1 and 6.4.2.
6.4.1 Test the required brake effect
Pull in the climbers to their upmost position and tilt the C-max backwards
until the back rest is in an almost horizontal position (see picture).
If the C-max cannot be pushed forward by the handles in said position, but
merely rolls backwards, then the required brake effect for the safe operation
of the C-max is granted (see picture).
FImportant: If the required brake effect is not guaranteed, you may,
under no circumstances, use the C-max any more. Please contact
your authorized AAT Alber dealer or the manufacturer immediately.
FShould the brake not kick in, you may under no circumstances use
the device. Please contact your authorized dealer or an AAT repre-
sentative immediately.
6.4.2 Test the required brake effect at the top edge of the stairs
FPlease make this test without a person sitting in the chair.
Pull in the climbers to their upmost position and tilt the device backwards
until the back rest is in an almost horizontal position. Drive forward to the
first step’s edge (without person). If you cannot push the device over the
edge of the step, the required braking effect for a safe operation of the C-max
is granted.
FImportant: If the required brake effect is not guaranteed, you may,
under no circumstances, use the C-max any more. Please contact
your authorized AAT Alber dealer or the manufacturer immediately.
FShould the brake not kick in, you may under no circumstances use
the device. Please contact your authorized dealer or an AAT repre-
sentative immediately.
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c-max 160 kg