AAT S-max Installation and operating instructions

Translation of the original user’s manual
Stair Climbing System S-max
GB

CE Declaration of conformity
The company AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH herewith declares that the
products of the stair climbing system S-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 Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH.
Signature of the manufacturer:
Markus Alber
Managing shareholder
AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH
The stair climbing system s-max has been
successfully tested and certified according
to the standard design for stair climbing ve-
hicles ISO 7176-23 and DIN EN 12182 at
the Technical University of Berlin, Ber-
lin-Cert.
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S-max
s-max_d1202_gb_01_2011
AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH
Postfach 10 05 60 · D-72426 Albstadt
Tel.: 0 74 31 - 12 95 0 · Fax.: 0 74 31 - 12 95 35
[email protected] · www.aat-online.de

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S-max
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 s-max . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.3 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4 Dimensioned sketch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.5 Standard scope of delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.6 Optional accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3 Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.1 Handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.2 Attach the battery pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.3 Detach the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.4 Adjust the handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.5 Functional check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4 Safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.1 Special information concerning the operation . . . . 13
4.2 Instruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.3 Safety brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.4 Lining of the climber’s rollers . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.5 Lifting capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.6 Care and maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.7 Condition of paths, walkways etc . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.8 Charge of the batteries.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.9 Climbing mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.10 Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.11 Mounting the brackets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.1 Maximum lifting capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.2 Battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.3 Safety brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.6 Rollers attached to the climber . . . . . . . . . . . 16

6 Instructions for operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
6.1 Control unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
6.2 Membrane keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6.3 Climber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6.4 Safety brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6.5 Attach s-max to or detach it from the wheelchair . . . 21
6.6 Transportation of a person with the s-max . . . . . . 24
6.7 Operation on level ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.8 Adjust the handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.9 Tilting the stair climbing system . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.10 Operation on slopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.11 Climbing upstairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
6.12 Climbing downstairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
6.13 Laying the s-max down on the stairs . . . . . . . . . 29
6.14 Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
6.15 Trouble shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
7 Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
7.1 Battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
7.2 Voltage converter for your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 31
8 Care, maintenance and recycling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
8.1 New user . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
8.2 Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
8.3 Battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
8.4 Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
8.5 Check brake lining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
8.6 Check the climbing feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
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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S-max

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 s-max you are able to transport one person safely and effortlessly
up- and downstairs; even winding stairs are no problem for the s-max. Dri-
ving on slopes is also possible. The safety brakes on both sides of the s-max
ensure your safety.
Naturally the s-max is also suitable to drive on level ground. The device is
lightweight, flexible and does not take up much space.
The s-max is capable of climbing stairs up to a step height of 22 cm. The mi-
nimum depth of the step’s surface must be 12 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 s-max
plus an extra 10 cm for manoeuvring.
The minimum platform size for u-shaped stairs depends on factors such as
the wheelchair’s dimensions, etc. Your AAT representative or your authorized
dealer are happy to advise you.
The sticker with the device’s serial number is located inside the batteries’
drawer. Remove the battery pack and read the number.
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 s-max. Operating the s-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 s-max for the first time.
After reading, please store this user's manual at an appropriate place for furt-
her reference.
1.2 Instruction
In the interest of your safety the s-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 s-max for the first time.
1.3 Care and maintenance
One of the most important aspects concerning the maintenance of the s-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 s-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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S-max

6
S-max
2 Description of the product
2.1 Adequate use
Please use the s-max exclusively for the transportation of physically disabled
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 s-max on escalators or moving belts!
FTransporting other kinds of loads is explicitly prohibited!
FOnly authorized operators may use the s-max. Therefore never leave
the s-max unattended.
FPlease do not use the s-max in the 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 s-max may only be operated by trained per-
sonnel who are physically and intellectually capable to handle the
device in all situations of operation. Mastering stairs
Driving on slopes
Driving on level ground

2.2 Features of the s-max
Handle unit
1 = control unit
2 = handle
3 = tightening knob for the handles' horizontal adjustment
4 = tightening knob for the handles' height adjustment
5 = column
6 = tightening knob for the column
Climbing unit
7 = upper rod
8 = battery pack
9 = main wheel
10 = climber
11 = safety brakes
12 = lower rod
13 = membrane keypad
2.3 Technical data
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S-max
measurements
height = min. 1200 mm, max. 1650 mm
width: handle = 517 mm, climbing unit = 321 mm
depth: handle = 230 mm, climbing unit = 320 mm
weight
climbing unit = 14.4 kg
handle = 3.0 kg
battery pack = 3.1 kg
total weight = 20.5 kg
maximum lifting capacity 120 kg
batteries 2 x 12 V / 3,3 Ah (sealed lead acid)
direct current motor 24 V / 178 W
climbing speed 5 - 20 steps / minute, continually adjustable
capacity with one battery charge 15 - 20 levels, (approx. 300 steps) depending on the load
maximum height of step 22 cm
noise level the device’s A weighted noise level lies typically below 70 dB (A)
storing/operating temperature,device 0° C up to + 60° C / - 30° C up to + 50° C
storing/operating temperature,batteries 0° C up to + 60° C / - 30° C up to + 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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S-max

2.5 Standard scope of delivery
1 = charger including instructions
2 = battery pack
3 = handle unit
4 = climbing unit
plus the user's manual
2.6 Optional accessories
1 = anti-tilt-support
2 = tipping bar
3 = transportation adapter
4 = bracket
5 = inclination indicator
6 = increase of climbing height
7 = seat belt system including hip belt
8 = hip belt
9 = voltage converter
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S-max
123 4
123
4567
89

3 Assembly
With a few movements you can assemble the s-max by means of several fix-
tures and tightening knobs. Disassembly is just as easy.
3.1 Handle
First connect the handle with the climbing unit by inserting the column 
into the holding device on the climbing unit.
A 9-pin Sub-D socket connector located in the climbing unit’s holding de-
vice makes the electrical connection.
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S-max

Secure the connection with the tightening knob .
FPlease always make sure that the handle is safely connected to the
climbing unit.
FPlease only connect the handle unit with the climbing unit if both
parts are clean and dry. Should there be dirt or moisture the two
parts should never be connected.
FClean and dry the Sub-D socket connector with a regular cleaning
cloth.
FYou may not connect other devices to the Sub-D socket connector.
This could destroy the s-max or the other electrical devices.
3.2 Attach the battery pack
Push the battery pack sideways into the climbing unit; once connected it
is automatically locked.
3.3 Detach the battery pack
Push down the locking lever on the climbing unit and take out the battery
pack.
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S-max

3.4 Adjust the handle
3.4.1 Adjust the height of the handle
Release the tightening knob by turning counter clockwise. Pull out the
handle to the appropriate height (maximum shoulder height). Then re-
tighten the tightening knob.
FPlease always make sure that the tightening knob is secure.
FPlease adjust the handle exactly according to instructions (see pic-
ture).
FAttention: avoid bruising at the nut's opening!!!
3.4.2 Adjust the handle horizontally
In very narrow staircases or on winding stairs the handle may hit the wall. To
be able to drive on such stairs the handle can be adjusted horizontally.
Release the tightening knob counter clockwise and adjust the handle 
horizontally to the desired position. Then retighten the tightening knob.
FPlease make sure that the tightening knob is secure.
3.5 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 6.11 and 6.12)!
FRegularly check whether the lining of the climber's rollers are unda-
maged (see chapter 8.6)
FMake sure that the battery pack is charged before you use the devi-
ce!
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S-max

4 Safety instructions
FFor a safe operation of the s-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 s-max may not be used on escalators and moving walk-
ways!
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 s-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 s-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
s-max OFF as soon as it is safe.
FBe aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the
s-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 s-max).
FReport all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the
s-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 s-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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S-max

FAlso make sure that the s-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 s-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 s-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 s-max; exempt from the above are
adolescents over 16 years of age who have been trained under supervision to
operate the s-max. While using the s-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 s-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 climber’s rollers: Please check regularly whether the
lining of each roller is undamaged (see chapter 8.6).
4.5 Lifting capacity: The stated maximum lifting capacity of 120 kg -
chair included - may not be exceeded. Please also read chapter 5.1.
FYou may under no circumstances use the s-max to transport goods!
4.6 Care and maintenance: Please make sure that you charge the batte-
ry pack after each use of the s-max. If the s-max is not in operation, please
turn off the device.
If the working elements of the device block, turn the s-max off immediately.
FRepairs may 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 s-max are free of obstacles and not slippery.
Avoid operation on damaged stair linings, snow, ice, etc.
FThe s-max may not be used in wet and rainy conditions.
4.7.1 Environmental conditions: Although the s-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.
14
S-max
1

4.8 Charge of the batteries: You should only use the s-max with fully
charged batteries. The light emitting diodes on the batteries’ display indica-
te the state of the batteries’ capacity. If the battery is almost empty you hear
a signal tone. With the remaining battery charge a person can be safely trans-
ported down the stairs, since energy is fed back into the batteries while des-
cending stairs. This means that the potential number of steps going
downstairs is unlimited. If the battery is totally discharged you hear a cons-
tant acoustic signal.
4.9 Climbing mechanism: The climber is for the most part covered by
the housing. However, please make sure that during the climbing process no
hands or feet get into the vicinity of the rotating areas. Always keep a safe
distance.
4.10 Transport:
FAlways turn off the s-max for transportation!
FWhen you transport the device in vehicles, please secure it accor-
ding to the relevant legal regulations in your country.
4.11 Mounting the brackets: Please make sure that the running wheels
do not jolt the brackets or get caught by parts of the them when climbing.
This could lead to dangerous situations.
FIf you chair is very narrow (i.e. a seat width of less than 40 cm), plea-
se first confirm with AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH whether it is
possible to mount the device at all!
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S-max

5 Operation
5.1 Maximum lifting capacity
Please make sure that the maximum lifting capacity of 120 kg - including
the chair - is not exceeded.
5.2 Battery pack
Please make sure that the sealed lead acid batteries are fully charged be-
fore you use the s-max for the first time (extensive instructions you find in
chapter 8.3).
5.3 Safety brakes
Before operating the s-max check the safety brakes every single time.
Extensive instructions you find in chapter 6.4 and 8.5.
5.4 Rollers attached to climber
Please check regularly whether the linings on both rollers attached to the
climber are intact.
You find further information in chapter 8.6.
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S-max

6 Instructions for operation
Before we get to the actual instructions for operation, we would like to intro-
duce the s-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 s-max is not in operation, please turn the device off.
FThe s-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
s-max off automatically. In such case you can only use the s-max
again by pressing the ON/OFF switch.
FTo assure safe operation of the s-max in dark stairways we equipped
each s-max with 2 LEDs (lights). These lights are automatically acti-
vated when you turn on the s-max.
FShould you have opted for the inclination indicator, it will also be au-
tomatically activated when you turn on your s-max (chapter 6.1.2).
6.1.2 Inclination indicator (optional)
If you wish the s-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 s-max with ease.
If your s-max has been equipped with this feature at your choice, it will vibra-
te 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 occur,
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 s-max for the first time, please choose the lowest speed.
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S-max

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 s-max, but you cannot drive
with it. This feature makes sure that no unauthorized person uses the device.
6.2 Membrane keypad
6.2.1 Capacity of the batteries
On the membrane keypad you can check the batteries' capacity.
If the display highlights the green area, your batteries are fully charged. If
the yellow area is highlighted your batteries are running low. At this point you
should charge your batteries.
If the display highlights the red area (LED is blinking), you hear a signal that
recurs every 12 seconds.
FOnce you hear the first signal, the batteries' capacity is sufficient for
a maximum of 20 - 35, steps depending on the weight of the trans-
ported person.
If the display is blinking the electronics detected a mistake. Possible expla-
nations you find in chapter 6.2.2.
6.2.2 Control light to indicate malfunction
Potential malfunction is indicated by a light diode.
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 call your authorized dea-
ler.
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S-max
LED is blinking Identified malfunction
1 x charging socket is defect
2 x UP/DOWN switch is defective
3 x error, motor control by H-bridge
4 x error, power relay
5 x malfunction, motor
permanent blinking battery is defective, battery discharge

6.2.3 Single step mode
Should you choose to turn off the single step mode manually you can do so
by pressing the key on the membrane keypad. The yellow LED above the
pictogram with the continuous arrow lights up as soon as you turn off the
single step mode.
FEvery time you turn on the s-max, the single step mode is automati-
cally activated.
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.
The climbing mechanism cannot unintentionally be activated. You can take
your time to move the main wheels to the next step's edge.
To continue climbing you simply release the UP/DOWN switch and then
press it again.
6.3 Climber
The climber (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 climber by activating the UP/DOWN
switch, direction up, whenever a person takes a seat in the s-max, so the de-
vice is supported by the climber (please also see chapter 6.6.1).
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S-max

6.4 Safety brakes
There are safety brakes located on the climbing unit on both sides.
FPlease check the safety brakes each time before you use the s-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 climber to its upmost position and tilt the s-max backwards ap-
proximately to a 45 degree angle of the column .
If the s-max cannot be pushed forward by the handle in said position, but
merely rolls backwards , then the required brake effect for the safe operati-
on of the s-max is granted.
FImportant: If the required brake effect is not guaranteed, you may,
under no circumstances, use the s-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 climber to its upmost position and tilt the s-max backwards ap-
proximately to a 45 degree angle of the column .
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 opera-
tion of the s-max is granted.
FImportant: If the required brake effect is not guaranteed, you may,
under no circumstances, use the s-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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S-max