Drive Medical IMAGE EC User manual

IMAGE EC POWER CHAIR
IMAGE EC
OWNER’S MANUAL

1
1.
PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION ……..…………………………………
2
2.
SAFETY NOTICE………..…………………….................…… ………….
Before driving
While driving
Labeling
3
3.
4.
EMI……………………………………………..………………………………..
PARTS INTRODUCTION……………………………………………..……….
8
9
5.
OPERATION…………………………………………………………………....
Joystick and controller
How to operate your power chair
How to set to freewheel mode
10
6.
BATTERY CHARGINGAND CARE…………………………………….....
Charging the battery
Battery
Replacing Image EC batteries / charger
18
7.
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE……………………………………..….
Inspection
Regular maintenance record
Battery, fuse and tire
Storage
21
8
TROUBLE SHOOTINGAND SPECIFICATION…………….……………
24
9.
WARRANTY………………………………………………………………….....
27
TABLE OF CONTENTS

2
Please carefully read this owner’s manual before using the power chair. Improper use of the power chair
could result in injury.
This owner’s manual includes operating instructions for every aspect of the power chair, including
assembly instructions and how to deal with possible accidents.
◆The symbols used in this manual are explained below:
Read carefully the notes marked with these symbols:
Warning Improper usage could result in serious injury or death
Attention Improper usage could lead to injury and/or damage to your power chair.
Suggestion Follow these instructions to keep your power chair in a good operating order.
◆This manual includes a copy of repair and maintenance record chart and warranty information.
Please keep it in a safe place.
◆If someone else uses the power chair, please make sure that you provide them with the instruction
manual for his or her consideration.
◆We reserve the right to make design modifications. As designs change some illustrations and pictures in
the manual may not correspond to the power chair that you have purchased.
“Caution: Federal law restricts this
device to sale by or on the order of a
practitioner licensed by the law of the State in which he/she practices.”
1. PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION

3
2. SAFETY NOTICE
2.1 BEFORE DRIVING
The user should become familiar with the usage and operation of this power chair before driving.
Therefore, please always keep the following safety notices in mind.
■For your safety, please follow these safety instructions
◆Drive on the pavement or pedestrian areas only.
◆Do not drive your power chair after consuming alcohol or when tired.
◆Please be careful when driving your power chair in low light.
It is not been designed for use at night.
◆The power chair has been designed to operate on pavement or indoors for speeds not to exceed
5mph.
■Practice operating your power chair
Before using the power chair, familiarize yourself with the operation of your power chair.
◆Set the speed dial to value 1 for your initial practice.
◆Be sure someone accompanies you for safety when operating you power chair for the first time.
◆Only use higher speed settings when you are confident that you can easily operate and control your
power chair.
■The Image EC power Chair is only to be used by one person at a time
Do not carry passengers on your power chair. (Including children)
■Do not use this power chair to carry or haul goods
◆The maximum weight with occupant is 300 lbs.
2.2 WHILE DRIVING
■Carry out daily inspections. Refer to the section titled “DAILY CHECKING”
■Do not move your body out of the power chair while moving
◆Such action may cause you to lose balance and risk serious injury.
◆Pay attention that your clothes do not get tangled in the wheels.
■Do not use your power chair under any of the following conditions.
◆On roads with heavy traffic or roads that are snow covered or icy.
◆Do not drive at night. Do not drive in rain or snow.
◆Do not drive your power chair in an “S” pattern or make erratic turns.
◆Do not take the power chair onto escalators.
◆UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD THE POWER CHAIR BE USED AS A SEAT
IN ANY OTHER MOVING VEHICLES INCLUDING SUV’S, BUSES OR TRAINS.

4
2. SAFETY NOTICE
■Mobile Phones and Other Wireless Communication Devices
◆Do not use a mobile phone or other wireless communication device while driving.
◆Always stop and turn the power off before using a wireless communication device.
◆Do not charge the mobile phone or any other electrical device from the power chair battery.
■Automatic Power Shut Down
In order to avoid accidental battery run down, your power chair is equipped with an automatic power
shut down. If the power chair is turned on, it will automatically turn off after remaining undisturbed for
a period of thirty minutes. When this situation occurs, simply switch your power chair off and back on
and it will be ready to use once again.
■Ramps, inclines and drops
◆Do not drive onto ramps that are steeper than the specified gradient. Refer to the section entitled
“CLIMBING ANGLE” in 8. SPECIFICATION”
◆Always use a low speed setting when ascending or descending a gradient.
◆Do not drive on roads with large drops or potholes. Refer to the section entitled “MAX. GROUND
CLEARANCE” in “8. SPECIFICATION”.
◆Do not make sudden turns when driving on gravel roads, ramps or hills.
◆Always lean forward when climbing a steep gradient.
■Starting and Driving
1. Make sure the seat is installed properly.
2. Fold down the armrests so that you can rest your arms.
3. Turn the power switch to “ON”.
4. Check battery indicator to ensure proper power. If necessary, recharge the batteries.
5. Set the speed to a safe and comfortable speed.
6. Check the joystick lever to ensure it operates correctly.
7. Make sure the electromagnetic brake is operating correctly.

5
2. SAFETY NOTICE
Warning!
◆Do not set in the freewheel mode when driving on an incline or hill.
◆Always re-engage the anti-freewheel device before use. Fail to do so may result in injury.
◆Always fasten the seat belt when operating the power chair.
◆To protect your safety, the power will automatically cut off and electromagnetic brake system will
activate while driving down a steep incline or hill. This will limit the speed to a safe level.
Turn the power on again to re-start your power chair.
◆Maximum User Weight Limit
Refer to section titled “MAX. LOAD WEIGHT” in “8. SPECIFICATION”. Overloading past
the weight limit may lead to damage of your power chair or cause it to malfunction and will
endanger your own safety. The warranty does not cover this type of damage.
Attention
1.Avoid putting all of your weight on the footrest. This may cause the power chair to tip.
Possibly resulting in injury.
2.Do not turn the power switch to OFF while driving as this will lead to an emergency stop and
possible risk of accident and injury.
3.Do not set to high speeds while driving indoors.
4.Do not adjust the speed dial while driving; a sudden change in speed may cause danger to you
and others, and may damage your power chair.
5.Do not place magnetic devices near the area of the controller as this could affect the safe operation
of your power chair.
6. Be cautious while driving in crowded areas.
7. While backing up the power chair, be aware of people or objects behind you.
■Stopping
◆Release the joystick control lever completely. The power chair will come to a stop.
◆Turn the power switch to (OFF). Remove the key.
■Driving on the pavement
Ensure the speed limit switch is set to the slowest setting when using the power chair. This will limit
the power chair to a maximum speed of 5mph.
◆The speed controller can be set to the fastest setting for use when safe.

6
2. SAFETY NOTICE
Attention: When climbing an incline, do not zigzag or drive at an angle up the face of the incline.
Always drive your power chair straight up the incline. This greatly reduces the possibility
of a tip or a fall. Always exercise extreme caution when negotiating an incline.
Never travel up or down an incline that is or covered by snow or ice.
■Inclines and uneven terrain
When climbing an incline, try to keep your power chair moving. If you must stop, start up again slowly
and then accelerate cautiously. When driving down an incline, do so slowly and in the forward direction
only. If your power chair starts to movefaster than you anticipated or desired it would, allow thechair to
come to a complete stop by releasing the joystick. Push the joystick slightly forward and continue
traveling slowly down the incline.
■Maximum recommended incline
The Image EC Power Chair has undergone extensive incline testing. Our results show that the
maximum incline your Image EC can safely climb is eight degrees at maximum weight capacity. Five
degrees is the angle of most handicap access ramps. Any attempt to climb a steeper slope may put your
Image EC into an unstable position.

7
2. SAFETY NOTICE
This section provides the user with basic information that describes the problems with Electromagnetic
interference (EMI), known sources of EMI, protective measure to either lessen the possibility or
exposure or to minimize the degree of exposure, and suggested action should unexpected or erratic
movement occur.
Attention:It is very important that you read this information regarding the possible effects of
Electromagnetic interference on your Image EC power chair.
■
ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE (EMI) FROM RADIO WAVE SOURCES
Powered chair’s may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is interfering
electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio
(HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones. The interference (from radio wave sources)
can cause the power chair to release its brakes, move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It can
also permanently damage the powered wheelchair’s control system. The intensity of the interfering EM
energy can be measured in volts per meter (V/m). Each power chair can resist EMI up to a certain
intensity; this is called its “immunity level”. The higher the immunity level, the greater the protection.
At this time, current technology is capable of achieving at least a 20 V/m immunity level, which would
provide useful protection from the more common sources of radiated EMI. This power chair model has
as shipped as with no further modification an immunity level of 20 V/m without any accessories.
There are a number of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the everyday environment.
Some of these sources are obvious and easy to avoid. Others are not apparent and exposure is
unavoidable. However, we believe that by following the warning listed below, your risk to EMI will be
minimized.
The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types:
1. Hand-held portable transceivers ( transmitter-receivers with the antenna mounted directly on the
transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens band (CB) radios, walkie talkies, security, fire, and
police transceivers, cellular telephones and other personal communication devices.
Attention: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signal while they are ON,
even when not being used.
2. Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and
taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of the power chair.
3. Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio and TV
broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM) radios.

8
3. EMI
Attention:Other types of hand-
held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers, AM/FM
radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette and small appliances
such as electric shavers and
hair dryers are not likely to cause EMI problems with your power operated vehicle.
■
POWER OPERATED VEHICLE ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE (EMI)
Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the transmitting antenna
(source), the EM fields from hand-held radio wave sources (transceivers) are of special concern. It is
possible to unintentionally bring high levels of EM energy very close to the control system of a power
operated vehicle while using these devices. This can affect power chair movement and braking.
Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible interference with the
control system of the power chair.
■
WARNINGS
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations, amateur radio
(HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect your power operated vehicle.
Following the warnings listed below should reduce the chance of unintended brake release or power
operated vehicle movement which could result in serious injury.
1. Do not operate hand-held transceivers-receivers, such as citizens band (CB) radios, or turn ON
personal communication devices such as cellular phones, while the power operated vehicle is
turned ON.
2. Be aware of nearby transmitters such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid coming close to
them.
3. If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the power operated vehicle OFF as soon as it
is safe;
4. Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the power operated vehicle may
make it more susceptible to EMI (Note: There is no easy way to evaluate their effect on the overall
immunity of the power operated vehicle.
5. Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the power operated vehicle’s
manufacturer, and note whether there is a source of EMI nearby.
■
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. 20 Volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and useful immunity level against EMI
( the higher the level, the greater the protection);
2. This product has an immunity level of 20 V/m without any accessories and connected to it.

9
4. PARTS INTRODUCTION
PARTS DESCRIPTION
1. Controller
2. Armrest
3. Headrest
4. Seatback
5. Seat
6. Seatback Release Lever
7. Drive Wheel
8. Caster Wheel
9. Footrest
10. Seat Belt
11. Drive Engage Levers
12. Joystick Adjustment knob
13. Rear Casters
2.
1.
4.
5.
6.
7
8
9.
3
10.
11.
12.
13.

10
5. OPERATION
JOYSTICK AND CONTROLLER
Your Image EC is operated by a joystick and controller. The Image EC is currently available
with the PG VR2 Controller.
VR2 Series CONTROL FUNCTIONS
1. ON/OFF Button 2. Battery Gauge 3. Joystick
4. Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator
5. Speed / Profile Decrease Button 6. Horn Button
7. Speed / Profile Increase Button
■HOW TO OPERATE YOUR Image EC
◆ON/OFF Button
The ON/OFF button applies power to the control system
electronics, which in turn supply power to the power chair’s
motor. Do not use the ON/OFF button to stop the power chair
unless there is an emergency.
Attention:
If you use the ON/OFF button to stop the power chair, it may shorten the life of the
drive components
◆Battery Gauge
The battery gauge shows you that the power chair is switched on. It also indicates the operating status
of the power chair.
◆Joystick
The primary function of the joystick controls the speed and direction of the power chair. The further you
push the joystick from the center position the faster the power chair will more. When you release the
joystick the brakes are automatically applied.
◆Maximum Speed / Profile Indicator
This gauge shows the maximum speed setting of the power chair.
There are five speed settings. Step 1 is the lowest speed and Step 5 is the highest speed.
4
2
6
3
7
5
1

11
5. OPERATION
Attention:
We recommend that the first few times you operate your Image EC you set the speed
adjustment button to the slowest setting until you become familiar with you new power chair.
◆Speed / Profile Decrease Button
This button decreases the maximum speed setting or, if the control system is programmed for drive
profile operation, selects a lower drive profile.
◆Horn Button
Press either button to sound the horn.
◆Speed / Profile Increase Button
This button increases the maximum speed setting or, if the control system is programmed for drive
profile operation, selects a lower drive profile.
◆Locking /Unlocking the power chair controller
Locking the power chair.
1. While the control system is switched on, depress and hold the on/off button.
2. After 1 second the control system will bleep. Now release the on/off button.
3. Deflect the joystick forwards until the control system beeps.
4. Deflect the joystick in reverse until the control system beeps.
5. Release the joystick, there will be a long bleep.
6. The power chair is now locked.
Unlocking the power chair.
1. Use the on / off button to switch the control system on. The maximum speed / profile indicator
light will be cycling side to side.
2. Deflect the joystick forwards until the control system beeps.
3. Deflect the joystick in reverse until the control system beeps.
4. Release the joystick, there will be a long bleep.
5. The power chair is now unlocked.

12
5. OPERATION
■JOYSTICK DEPTH ADJUSTMENT
Your power chair may be equipped with an adjustable joystick. This function enables you to move
the joystick from the armrest to the desired position.

Suggestion
1. You should recharge the batteries after each time the power chair is used to ensure maximum range.
The batteries should be charged at least once a week, even if the power chair is not used.
2. After charging or replacing a new battery, drive the power chair for 2-3 minutes to make sure the
battery capacity is sufficient.
3. In cold weather, the battery may respond more slowly and the battery range may be reduced.
4. When driving on a gradient, the battery indicator light may move up and down. This is a normal
phenomenon and should not cause concern.
5. Even with proper care and use of the battery, it is natural for the battery’s capacity to reduce with time
.
Therefore, when the battery’s range is about 50% of the range when the batteries were new, it is time
for the batteries to be replaced. Please contact your dealer about replacement batteries. If an old batt
ery
con is used, it can lead to a rapid decline in performance.
6. The battery range will be reduced when driving frequently on a slope or on rough terrain as this
requires a greater consumption of power.
7. The batteries have a six month warranty covering manufacturing defect. This warranty does not
cover faults due to incorrect battery recharging.
■BRAKING
Electromagnetic brake: Release the speed control lever completely, the electromagnetic brake will be
activated automatically and the power chair will stop.

13
5. OPERATION
Warning
When on an incline, NEVER switch the power chair to the freewheel mode. The electromagnetic brakes
will not be applied and this may result in injury.
HOW TO ADJUST THE SEAT
▇To adjust the seatback angle
◆Pull up the seatback release lever.
◆Move the seatback down or up to the desired position .
◆Release the seatback release lever.
▇To adjust the armrest width
◆Loosen the knobs
◆Slide the armrests in or out to the desired width .
◆Tighten the knobs.
▇To adjust the armrests angle
◆Lift-up the armrest.
◆Loose the jam nut.
◆Adjust the socket screw up or down to the desired arm angle position.
◆Tighten the jam nut
◆To determine the same angle for the opposite armrest, count the exposed threads after the jam nut
has been tightened.
◆If necessary, repeat the steps for the opposite armrest.
Seatback Release Lever
Jam Nut
Knob

14
5. OPERATION
▇To adjust the armrests height
◆Press the button.
◆Move the armrest to the required position.
▇To adjust the headrest
◆To raise headrest , lift it to the desired position.
◆To lower headrest, push release tab towards the inside of the chair and lower the headrest to the
desired position.
▇To remove the seat
1. Turn the power OFF.
2. Make sure the Image EC is not in freewheel mode.
3. Push the seat rotate lever while pulling up on the seat to remove.
Knob
Adjust the Headrest

15
5. OPERATION
▇To change the seat height
1. Remove seat (See “To remove the Seat”)
2. Remove the shroud.
3. Disengage and remove the seat height adjustment bolt from the seat post.
4. Remove the height adjustment bolt from each of the three posts.
5. Raise or lower each post to the desired position.
6. Reinstall the seat height adjustment bolt through the seat post.
7. Reinstall the shroud.
8. Reinstall the seat.
HOW TO ADJUST THE FOOTREST
▇To adjust the footrest angle
You can adjust the angle of the footrest with a hex wrench (M6).
◆Turn the setscrew clockwise to raise the front of the footrest.
◆Turn the setscrew clockwise to lower the front of the footrest.
▇To adjust the footrest height
◆Remove the quick release pin.
◆Adjust footboard to one(1) of three (3) mounting positions.
◆Install the quick release pin. Make sure the detent ball is engaged with the outer edge of the tube.
HOW TO SET THE FREEWHEEL MODE
For your convenience, the Image EC Plus is equipped with a freewheel level. This level allows you to
disengage the drive motors and maneuver the chair manually.
▇To engage the drive and take power chair out of freewheel
◆Pull the freewheel lever to the “DRIVE” position (left and right).
◆Activation of the joystick automatically releases the brake so the powered Image EC can be
driven.
▇To disengage the drive and place power chair in freewheel
◆Push the freewheel lever to “NEUTRAL” position (left and right).
Setscrew
Luck Nut
Bolt

16
5. OPERATION

Warning
Do not use your Image EC Power Chair while the drive motors are disengaged unless you are in the
presence of an attendant! Do not disengage the drive motors when on an incline as the power chair may
roll down, causing injury!

Suggestion
If a level is difficult to move in either direction, gently rock the power chair back and front; the level
should then move to the desired position.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
The Image EC Power Chair has a circuit breaker protruding through the shroud cover at the right of the
power chair.
◆In the unlikely event of a short circuit or heavy overload, all power to the power chair will be shut
off.
◆To reset, depress the circuit breaker button. Afew minutes wait is required before the circuit breaker
will reset.
◆If the power chair continues to shut down after resetting have it serviced by a dealer.
Circuit Breaker

17
5. OPERATION
HOW TO ADJUST THE SWIVEL SEAT
Above: Seat shown in the four possible “ENGAED” positions
Below: Seat shown in the four possible “REMOVABLE” positions

18
6. BATTERY CHARGING AND CARE
BATTERIES
◆The Image EC Power Chair uses two long- lasting, 12 volt, deep-cycle batteries. These batteries are
sealed and maintenance free. Since they are sealed, there is no need to check the electrolyte (fluid)
level. Deep-cycle batteries are designed to handle a longer and deeper discharge. Though they are
similar in appearance to automotive batteries, they are not interchangeable. Automotive batteries
are not designed to handle a long, deep discharge and are unsafe for use in powered power chairs.
◆These batteries are maintenance free and there is no need to refill with water.
◆Do not expose the battery to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 122°F (50°C) when
charging or storing the power chair. Under the above temperature range can cause the battery either
to freeze or overheat, causing damage and shortening its life.

Warning
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds.
Wash hands after handling!
▇Use proper batteries
◆You r power chair operates on two 12 volt batteries.
◆They should be U1 size with minimum of 36amp hour rating . Only deep cycle sealed case
construction batteries should be used in the power chair.
◆When you buy a replacement, insist on a deep cycle sealed case. Do not use any other type.
CHARGING THE BATTERIES
The battery charger is essential in providing long battery life. Located underneath the utility tray, it is
designed to optimize your Image EC performance by charging safely, quickly and easily. The power
chair (optional) amp meter and charger plug are located on the utility tray for easy viewing. The Amp
meter indicates the rate of charge being administered to fully recharge the batteries. It is also a good
indication of whether or not the charger is working. The Amp meter and the charger are only functional
when the charger power cord is plugged into a wall outlet.
▇To charge the batteries using the onboard charger
◆Position the rear of Image EC close to a standard wall outlet.
◆Be certain the controller power is turned off and the freewheel levers are in the engaged position.
◆Slide the cover of charger plug.
◆Extend the charger power cord and plug it into the wall outlet.
◆The (optional) Amp meter indicates how much charge is needed to fully charge the batteries. Wait
about a minute for the charger to warm up. The Amp meter may move as high as 3 amps, then
gradually move back down to 0 amps as the batteries charge.
We recommended you charge the batteries for 8 to 14 hours. As the batteries charge, the Amp
meter needle slowly drops to zero. When the batteries are fully charged, the needle vibrates on or
near the zero mark on the Amp meter scale.
◆When the batteries are fully charged, unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
◆Replace the cover of charger plug.

19
6. BATTERY CHARGING AND CARE
▇To charge the batteries using the off-board charger
◆Position the power chair next to a standard wall outlet.
◆Be certain the controller power is turned off .
◆Open the charging socket cap on the rear shroud .Then connect the charging cable into the charging
socket.
◆Plug the charging cable into the wall outlet.
◆We also recommended that the batteries are not charged for more then 24 hours.
◆When your Image EC batteries are fully charged, unplug the charging cable from the wall outlet.
◆Disconnect the charging cable from the Image EC.
Warning
1. Keep away from flammable objects while charging as it may lead to fire or explosion of battery.
2. Do not smoke while charging as the battery may release hydrogen gas. Always charge the battery
in a well-ventilated space.
3. Avoid electric shock! Never connect or disconnect the plug or cord with wet hands while charging.
Do not connect or disconnect the plug or cord when they are wet.
BATT6. BATTERY CHARGING AND CARE CHA
Attention - Follow these safety rules below to avoid accidents while charging.
1. Use the manufacturer’s supplied charger only, and recharge the battery to its full capacity
every time. You may damage the battery and power chair if you use a charger which is not
correctly specified.
2. Charge in a well-ventilated space not directly exposed to sunlight. Do not charge in areas
that are humid or exposed to rain, mist or dew.
3. Do not charge in temperatures 14°F (-10°C) or higher than 122°F (+50°C) as the charger may
cause battery damage.

Suggestion – How to maximize your battery’s efficiency and service life
1. Fully charge any new battery before its initial use.
2. Be sure to charge the battery after each use. Battery power will be reduced if the battery is used
without being fully charged.
3. If the power chair is not used for an extended period, batteries should be charged at least weekly.
4. The ambient temperature affects charging time, it will be longer in the cold temperatures.
5. After charging, do not leave the charger socket plugged in.