AAT max-e User manual

max-e
Translation of the original user's manual
The power kit for your wheelchair
with cable

CE-Declaration of conformity
The company AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH herewith declares that the
products of the powered systems max-e are developed and produced in ac-
cordance with the current regulations of the European Community
93/42/EG, 2007/47/EG and 2006/42/EG.
This declaration loses all validity if an alteration of any kind not
approved by AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH was made at any
one of the herein described devices.
Signature of the manufacturer:
Markus Alber
Managing associate
AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH
The powered drive system max-e is being
tested according to the norm DIN EN
12184 at the Technical University Berlin,
testing and certifying facility for medical
products GmbH.
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max-e_q1604_gb_12_2011
AAT Alber Antriebstechnik GmbH
Postfach 10 05 60 · D-72426 Albstadt
Tel. +49.74 31.12 95-0 · Fax +49.74 31.12 95-35
www.aat-online.de · [e-mail]

Table of contents
CE-Declaration of conformity ............ 2
Table of contents ................. 3
1 Introduction ........................ 4
1.1 Description of the product ............. 4
1.2 Technical data ................... 6
1.3 Delivery package .................. 7
1.4 Optional accessories ................ 7
2 Mounting an initial operation ................ 8
2.1 Brackets ..................... 8
2.2 Battery pack .................... 8
2.3 Hook in the max-e ................. 9
2.4 Attach the control unit ............... 11
2.5 Driving with the max-e ............... 11
2.6 Adjustment of the hand rest ............ 13
2.7 Swivel arm .................... 14
2.8 Anti-tilt support .................. 15
3Safety regulations / notification of potential dangers ..... 17
3.1 General information ................ 17
3.2 Technical requirements .............. 17
3.3 Operation ..................... 17
3.4 Environmental influences.............. 18
3.5 Driving ...................... 18
3.6 Special tips for driving ............... 18
3.7 Weather conditions................. 19
3.8 Transportation ................... 19
3.9 Condition of paths, walkways etc. .......... 19
4 Useful information ..................... 20
5 Control unit ........................ 21
5.1 Control unit .................... 21
5.2 Joystick ...................... 21
5.3 Display ...................... 22
6 Battery pack/Control unit .................. 24
6.1 General information ................ 24
6.2 Exchange the fuses of the battery pack ....... 26
7Trouble shooting and indication of malfunction ........ 27
7.1 Trouble shooting .................. 27
7.2 Indication of malfunction .............. 27
8Care, maintenance and recycling .............. 30
8.1 Different user ................... 30
8.2 Care ....................... 30
8.3 Maintenance.................... 30
8.4 Recycling ..................... 31
9 Warranty and Liability .................... 32
9.1 Warranty ..................... 32
9.2 Liability ...................... 32
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1Introduction
With the max-e you transform your manual wheelchair easily and quickly
into a lightweight, fully functioning, powered wheelchair. Due to the directly
powered wheels of your wheechair the max-e accomplishes a permanent, ef-
ficient transfer of power while all advantages of a manual wheelchair remain
intact.
Max-e is appropriate for the application class A according to EN 12184
(Guidelines of the European Union). The range lies at 15 km instead of the
norm´s 25 km; however, with an extra set of batteries the range can be in-
creased to the required 25 km.
1.1 Description of the product
1.1.1 General survey
= Control unit
=Battery pack plus bag
=Wheel of the wheelchair including grip ring and toothed ring (20" or
24")
=Anti-tilt support (20" or 24")
=Brackets on the wheelchair
= max-e drive
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1.1.2 Control unit
= Horn
= Present speed control (fast)
= Hand rest
= Display
= Joystick
= Present speed control (slow)
= On/Off
1.1.3 Back side of the control unit
= Lock
= Entrance connecting cable
= Socket for the charging cable
1.1.4 Drive unit
= Drive
= Entrance connecting cable
=Exit of the power line and socket for the charging cable
= Battery pack
= Connection to the wheelchair
= Control unit
= Entry of the power cable at the max-e
1.1.5 Display (main screen)
= Display of the battery pack
= Speed
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1.2 Technical Data
*Please always observe the limits stipulated by the wheelchair manufactu-
rer.
** The range applies to a person weighing 70 kg that drives on even ground.
Diagram concerning weight and climbing capacity:
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Measurements
height = 28 cm
width = 34,5 cm
depth = 14,5 cm
Weight
drive = 8,2 kg
battery pack = 10,2 kg
control unit = 0,4 kg
bag for the batteries incl. straps = 0,2 kg
charger = 0,3 kg
power cable = 0,2 kg
total weight = 19,5 kg
Limits concerning the attachment to wheelchairs possible at a seat width of 28 cm
max. total weight admitted 200 kg (person, wheelchair, max-e) *
Speed
continuously adjustable
6 km / hours forward
3 km / hours backward
Capacity with one battery charge up to 15 km **
Maximum slope upt to 20 %
Storage temperature / operation temperature - 20° C to + 60°C/-10°Cto+50°C
Battery pack 2 x 12V/16Ah
Direct current motor electronically commutated 24 V / 130 W
In the name of progress we reserve the right for technical and optical changes.

1.3 Delivery package
The standard delivery package contains:
=wheelchair wheels including grip ring and toothed ring (20" or 24")
= battery pack
= charger
= Cable for data transmission and power supply
= special control unit with fitting socket
= max-e power unit
...well as a power cable, battery bag, holding device for the control unit and
an operator’s manual (no picture).
In addition, you need brackets which must be fixed to your wheelchair .
1.4 Optional accessories
=spokes’ protection (available for 20" or 24" wheels)
=anti-tilt support (20" or 24")
=swivel arm
=voltage transformer for the car
1.4.1 Joystick options (optional)
=Holding device for the attendant´s control unit
=Palm control
=Ball (40 or 50 mm)
=Soft ball
=Special fixture for quadriplegics
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2Mounting and initial operation
Max-e may only be operated in connection with a special holding device,
which must be fixed to the wheelchair.
These brackets (holding devices) must be mounted to the wheelchair exclu-
sively by AAT Alber Antriebstechnik or their authorized dealers.
2.1 Brackets
The holding devices or brackets are specially developed and adjusted to
each particular type of wheelchair. The brackets in this picture,right and
left may look different from the ones on your wheelchair.
FPlease make sure that the brackets are tightly secured on the chair befo-
re each use. Do not use the max-e if the screws are loose. In such case
contact your dealer immediately.
FPlease note that mounting the max-e to a wheelchair (depending on the
model) may result in restricting the adjustment of its seat or back rest.
FMounting the max-e to a wheelchair (depending on the model) may re-
sult in a change of the wheelchair’s measurements.
2.1.1 Attach and detach the wheels
There are full-floating axles in the centre of your wheelchair wheels. Press
the locking pin in the middle of the axle with your index finger to unlock the
system. Now you can take the wheel off.
Please remove one after the other.
To put the wheels back on proceed in reverse order.
2.2 Battery pack
Underneath your wheelchair’s seat there is a bag attached for the battery
pack. You slip the battery pack into the bag...
...and secure it with a Velcro strap.
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2.3 Hook in the max-e
Carefully insert the max-e into the bracket on both sides.
FPlease insert the max-e with its wheelchair connections in a straight
line in reference to the brackets .
The device easily slides into the brackets by itself.
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Now put the plug of the power cable into its socket on the max-e.
Afterwards you put the plug of the power cable into the corresponding so-
cket on the battery pack.
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2.4 Attach the control unit
The wheelchair driver controls all functions of the max-e with the control
unit .With a special holding device the control unit can be mounted on
either the right or the left side of the wheelchair thus making it equally con-
venient for left and right-handed people.
A special dentification allows for the attachment of the control unit in in-
dividual positions particularly convenient for the user. You can slide the
control unit on the t-bar from one grid to the next. To lock the control unit on
the t-bar you need to turn the lock counter-clockwise. That way the con-
trol unit cannot fall off the holding devicen.
Following connect the cable with the socket of the control unit and the
drive unit . Both components are connected now.
2.5 Driving with the max-e
When you turn on the max-e the drive unit´s axles emerge automatically. At
this point the motor shaft turns radially back and forth for a few seconds un-
til the toothed wheel and the toothed ring grip fully. At this point the wheel-
chair cannot be pushed manually any more.
2.5.1 Starter protection
Please make sure that the joystick of the max-e is in neutral position before
you start driving.
FStart using the joystick only after the major screen appears on the dis-
play.
2.5.2 Overload
Should the max-e be overloaded, e.g. on slopes or when the wheels block,
the electro-magnetic brakes become activated after 2 seconds and the devi-
ce stops. You hear a signal tone and the display shows “overload”. After
another 3 seconds the picture on the display returns to the main screen .
FIn such case, please let go of the joystick and wait until the major screen
appears back on the display. Then you can continue driving while taking
into consideration the reason for the overload, e.g. remove the blockage
or turn around, if the slope is too steep, etc..
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Overload!

2.5.3 Stand-by-Modus
Should you not use the control unit for 5 minutes, there is a warning signal
plus the display shows the message “stand-by in one minute.
FTo avoid the stand-by mode, press any key or move the joystick .
FIf the device goes into stand-by mode, you must press the On/Off button
to return to the previous mode. Within a few seconds you may continue
driving, since the driving axles remain active in the stand-by mode .
Should there be a situation when you do not need the max-e, simply remove
it and put it aside.
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2.5.4 Weather conditions
We recommend not to leave the max-e in freezing weather conditions for a
longer period of time to ensure that the device functions correctly. Should
you not be able to avoid freezing conditions, please make sure you move the
max-e to a place with temperatures above 0° C at least one hour prior to ope-
ration.
2.6 Adjustment of the hand rest
The hand rest on the control unit can be adjusted to right-handed or
left-handed users.
FIn the interest of your safety only authorized personnel should adjust the
handrest. Please contact your local dealer.
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2.7 Swivel arm
The swivel arm is an optional accessory, which makes it possible to swivel
your control unit into several different positions.
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2.8 Anti-tilt support
You may operate the max-e only with installed anti-tilt support.
If your wheelchair does not have a tilt support, which is standard with most
wheelchair manufacturers, we can equip your wheelchair with the necessary
anti tilt support as an optional accessory of the max-e.
Holding devices for our anti-tilt support are already mounted on the brackets
of the max-e.
2.8.1 Attaching and removing the tilt support
2.8.1.1 Universal holding device
Slide the tilt support all the way into the holding device on the max-e.
Lock it with the locking bolt .Push the locking bolt into the drilling on the
holding device while you press the unlocking button at the top of the lo-
cking bolt. When the locking bolt is inserted all the way you release the un-
locking button on the locking bolt.
FPlease check whether the locking bolts are tightly secured in the holding
devices. If you can remove the locking bolts without pressing the unlo-
cking button, they are not secured properly.
FPlease make sure that the tilt support is not jammed whenever you use
the max-e.
FPlease do not drive backwards against a wall with mounted tilt supports.
FPlease note that no tilt support can secure all potentially difficult situa-
tions, thus avoid any instable situations even with mounted tilt supports.
To remove the tilt support you press the unlocking button on the locking bolt
while you pull it out. Then take off the tilt support.
2.8.1.2 Multi holding device 1
Pull the locking bolt out sidewise and slide the tilt support all the way
into the holding on the max-e. Please note the instructions written on the
tilt supports. The one marked with an “R” ist the tilt support for the right
side, the one marked with an “L” is the one for the left side, so that the dril-
lings for the locking bolts correspond.
FPlease make sure that the tilt supports are secured in their respective
holding devices. If you can pull them out, they are not secured properly.
FBefore you start driving make sure that the tilt supports are not jammed.
FPlease do not drive backwards against a wall with mounted tilt supports.
FPlease note that no tilt support can secure all potentially difficult situa-
tions, thus avoid any instable situations even with tilt supports.
To remove them you pull out the locking bolts and take them off .
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2.8.1.3 Multi holding device 2
Pull the locking bolt out sidewise and slide the tilt support all the way
into the holding on the max-e. Please note the instructions written on the
tilt supports. The one marked with an “R” ist the tilt support for the right
side, the one marked with an “L” is the one for the left side, so that the dril-
lings for the locking bolts correspond.
FPlease make sure that the tilt supports are secured in their respective
holding devices. If you can pull them out, they are not secured properly.
FBefore you start driving make sure that the tilt supports are not jammed.
FPlease do not drive backwards against a wall with mounted tilt supports.
FPlease note that no tilt support can secure all potentially difficult situa-
tions, thus avoid any instable situations even with tilt supports.
To remove them you pull out the locking bolts and take them off.
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3Safety regulations and notification of potential
dangers
3.1 General information
All general rules for the safe operation of a wheelchair remain valid when the
max-e is used.
To guarantee a safe operation of the max-e we must ask you to observe the
following directions closely.
3.2 Technical requirements
The mounting of the brackets for the max-e or any alterations on them may
only be performed by AAT Alber Antriebstechnik or their authorized person-
nel.
The max-e may only be mounted on wheelchairs of a seat width of a mini-
mum of 28 cm. The wheelchairs must be tested and coincide with common
technical rules. Finally, their operators’ manuals must be observed when
using the max-e.
When you operate the max-e you must observe all recommended limits of
the wheelchair manufacturer such as e.g. the maximum gradient or the ad-
mitted top load, as well as their general instructions for operation. Listed re-
strictions and limits must be observed and may not be exceeded.
FThe maximum top load (200 kg) admitted is the addition of the wheel-
chair driver’s weight, the wheelchair and the max-e.
FPlease always check the air pressure of pneumatic steering rollers. The
max-e’s driving qualities could be affected negatively, if there is not
enough air in the rollers.
FThe max-e plus its power unit is for the most part covered by the hou-
sing. Nevertheless, please make sure that while driving you do not put
fingers or hands into the rotating area (e.g. chain wheel or driving pini-
on). Always keep a safe distance.
3.3 Operation
Thorough instruction to operate the max-e is part of the delivery package
and takes place at a time and place of your choosing with one of AAT’s dea-
lers.
FDo not operate the max-e without having received extensive instructions.
FThe max-e may only be operated by people who have been instructed
thoroughly in the operation of the device, and who are physically and
mentally capable to use the max-e safely in all possible situations .
FShould you not feel comfortable operating the max-e, please contact
your local dealer or one of our representatives.
FDue to the potential danger of tilting a wheelchair, the powered drive
max-e may only be operated with installed anti-tilt support.
FPlease check the tilt supports before each use. They may never be jam-
med.
FPlease do not drive backwards towards the wall with mounted tilt supp-
orts.
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3.4 Environmental influences - EMV
Electro-magnetic compatibility (EMV) is understood as the capacity of an
electric device to function properly within its electro-magnetic environment
without inadmissably influencing said environment including other devices
therein.
max-e mastered the EMV tests required by German jurisdiction successfully.
Nevertheless, always check whether the device’s electronic functions work
properly before each use. This is particularly important if there is an aerial
mast nearby.
FPlease note that the max-e 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 devices.
FAlso make sure that the max-e is not operated in close proximity to medi-
cal devices with a high potential for danger and/or life-supporting
functions as well as diagnostic devices.
3.5 Driving
It is indispensible that all restrictions and limits stipulated by the wheel-
chair manufacturer must be closely observed.
FDuring drive rests activate the locking brakes of the wheelchair.
FAlways start with the lowest possible speed.
Although max-e masters gradients up to 20 % you may never exceed the ad-
mitted gradient stipulated by the wheelchair manufacturer.
FYou may not operate the max-e without anti-tilt support.
FPlease check the tilt supports before each use. They may not be jam-
med.
FPlease do not drive backwards towards the wall with mounted tilt supp-
orts.
Please note that during operation you cannot adjust the speed (see 5.1.1)
Also you cannot turn off the max-e. The signal horn can be used at any time.
FPlease turn off the max-e when you move from one chair to another.
Should you have noticed any change during operation, please refrain from
using the max-e!
FMake sure that the batteries are fully charged before each operation .
3.6 Special tips for driving
If the max-e is turned off, all advantages of a manual wheelchair remain.
Once you turn on the max-e the pinions of the drive couple pneumatically
into the toothed rings mounted on the wheels. A manual emergency unlo-
cking button (see 7.2.2) is located on the right side of the drive.
In the interest of your safety, you may not use the max-e on escalators,
stairs, moving belts or unsecured surfaces.
Please avoid driving parallel on steep slopes to avoid a tilting over sideways
of your wheelchair. Always counter-steer when the curb on the sidewalk is
slanting downward and remain at a safe distance to the curb.
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3.7 Weather conditions
We recommend not to leave the max-e in freezing weather conditions for a
longer period of time to ensure that the device functions correctly. Should
you not be able to avoid freezing conditions, please make sure you move the
max-e to a place with temperatures above 0° C at least one hour prior to ope-
ration.
FAt this point check the device before operation. Should your max-e not
function properly, please call your local dealer or AAT directly .
3.8 Transportation
You may lift the max-e from its brackets for transportation (see chapter 2.3).
FBefore using mass transportation such as buses or subways, etc. or your
personal vehicle, please detach the max-e from your wheelchair !
FAlways turn off the max-e before transportation!
FDuring drive rests activate the locking brakes of the wheelchair.
FWhen driving in a vehicle, please secure your wheelchair and the max-e
according to the respective rules regulated by law.
FThe air-tight batteries used in the max-e are not considered hazardous
goods according to the special regulations A67 and GGVS Rn-Nr. 2801
A, section 2 by IATA, thus they are approved by DOT and IATA for air tra-
vel.
3.9 Condition of paths, walkways etc.
You should avoid operating the device on unfortified grounds (sand, mud,
loose gravel, ice or snow).
Please avoid using the max-e in the rain, ice, snow or general wet conditions
because then the wheels’ grip on the ground is reduced. There is an increa-
sed danger of slipping and sliding. Please adjust your driving style accor-
dingly.
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4Useful information
To operate the device safely, it is indispensible to know the driving qualities
of the max-e thoroughly. The comfort and safety of our clients are important
to us; therefore, we would like to give you some useful tips for the operation
of the max-e.
FIt is best to make the first few attempts using the device outside because
in narrow rooms you may collide with furniture and other obstacles .
FStart with the lowest possible speed and acquaint yourself step by step
with the device’s driving qualities.
FSelect a low speed for operation indoors.
FWhen you start driving, the joystick should never be pushed through all
the way because this could cause jerking, uncontrollable movements
(danger of accident).
FPlease use the joystick carefully. In dangerous situations brake until you
stand still to avoid potential powerful jerks.
FBrake the max-e carefully by letting go of the joystick, though never grip
the gripping rings on the wheels while braking. You can bring about
animmediate standstill by briefly pressing the joystick in the opposite
direction that you are driving.
FTo keep the wheelchair from tipping over sideways, you should avoid dri-
vingparallel to steep slopes. Countersteer when you cross steep sidewalk
ramps.
FCross obstacles such as ramps of sidewalks with both wheels simultane-
ously. Always master ramps backwards since the steering rollers may po-
tentially block when you drive forward. Also take into consideration the
hight adjustment of your anti-tilt support.
FYou must observe the regular traffic rules when driving on public roads.
Potentially required additional accessories must be mounted should
they be stipulated by law. Please contact the appropriate facilities,
should you have questions.
FPlease do not drive backwards towards the wall with mounted tilt supp-
orts because they may jam. In such case the tilt support is not guaran-
teed any more.
FPlease note that during operation you cannot adjust the speed (see
5.1.1) Also you cannot turn off the max-e. The signal horn can be used
at any time.
FRapid changeover from electrical power to manual operation of the
wheelchair. By pressing the manual unlock button (7.2.2) the driving
axles automatically retract. Please keep pressing the button until the
driving axles are completely retracted. Then pull the power cable from
the battery pack. The power cable can be pulled from the device by an
attendant if so desired. By removing the power cable the driving axles re-
main retracted. Now you can drive with your wheelchair manually.
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