Invacare At'm Manual

Owner’s Operator and Maintenance Manual
DEALER: This manual MUST be given to
the user of the wheelchair.
USER: BEFORE using this wheelchair, read
this manual and save for future reference.
For more information regarding
Invacare products, parts, and services,
please visit www.invacare.com
At’m

At’m 2Part No. 1125035
 WARNING
A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST PERFORM THE INITIAL SET UP
OF THIS WHEELCHAIR. ALSO, A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN MUST
PERFORM ALL PROCEDURES IN THE SERVICE MANUAL.
WHEELCHAIR USERS: DO NOT SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS
EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND UNDERSTANDING
(1) THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL
AND (2) THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF APPLICABLE). IF
YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS,
CAUTIONS, AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT INVACARE
TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO SERVICE OR
OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE INJURY OR DAMAGE
MAY RESULT.
DEALERS AND QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS: DO NOT SERVICE OR
OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT FIRST READING AND
UNDERSTANDING (1) THE OWNER’S OPERATOR AND
MAINTENANCE MANUAL, (2) THE SERVICE MANUAL (IF
APPLICABLE) AND (3) THE SEATING SYSTEM’S MANUAL (IF
APPLICABLE). IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO UNDERSTAND THE
WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT
INVACARE TECHNICAL SUPPORT BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO
SERVICE OR OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT - OTHERWISE, INJURY
OR DAMAGE MAY RESULT.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part No. 1125035 3At’m
TABLE OF CONTENTS
REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT................................................................ 6
SPECIAL NOTES ................................................................................ 9
LABEL LOCATION .......................................................................... 10
TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS .................................................. 11
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES ................................................. 12
Controller Settings/Repair or Service .................................................................................................12
Tire Pressure .............................................................................................................................................12
Operation Information............................................................................................................................12
Accessories ................................................................................................................................................14
Batteries......................................................................................................................................................14
Charging Batteries ...............................................................................................................................14
Grounding Instructions ...........................................................................................................................15
Rain Test.....................................................................................................................................................15
Weight Training ........................................................................................................................................15
Weight Limitation.....................................................................................................................................15
SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION ..................................................... 16
SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS ......................... 18
Stability and Balance.................................................................................................................................18
Coping With Everyday Obstacles.........................................................................................................18
A Note to Wheelchair Assistants ........................................................................................................19
Lifting/Stairways ........................................................................................................................................19
Percentage of Weight Distribution ......................................................................................................20
Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward......................................................................................20
Reaching and Bending - Backward ...................................................................................................20
SECTION 4—SAFETY INSPECTION/TROUBLESHOOTING .................... 21
Safety Inspection Checklists...................................................................................................................21
Inspect/Adjust Initially .........................................................................................................................21
Inspect/Adjust Weekly........................................................................................................................22
Inspect/Adjust Monthly.......................................................................................................................22
Inspect/Adjust Periodically.................................................................................................................22
Troubleshooting Guide ...........................................................................................................................23

TABLE OF CONTENTS
At’m 4Part No. 1125035
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 5—WHEELCHAIR OPERATION ........................................... 24
Operating the Wheelchair......................................................................................................................24
Turning the Power On/Off................................................................................................................24
Using the Joystick to Drive the Chair.............................................................................................24
Using the Horn.....................................................................................................................................25
Joystick Switches and Indicators ...........................................................................................................26
On/Off Button ......................................................................................................................................26
Speed Control Knob ...........................................................................................................................26
Joystick....................................................................................................................................................26
Information Gauge Display ................................................................................................................26
Multi Function Charger Port.............................................................................................................28
Resetting the Circuit Breaker................................................................................................................28
SECTION 6—SEAT ........................................................................... 29
Removing/Installing the Seat...................................................................................................................29
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................29
Installing..................................................................................................................................................29
Replacing Seat Positioning Strap ...........................................................................................................31
SECTION 7—JOYSTICK .................................................................... 32
Disconnecting/Connecting the Joystick...............................................................................................32
Disconnecting .......................................................................................................................................32
Connecting ............................................................................................................................................32
Repositioning the Joystick.......................................................................................................................33
SECTION 8—BATTERIES .................................................................. 34
Warnings For Handling and Replacing Batteries...............................................................................34
Recommended Battery Type .................................................................................................................34
Removing/Installing the Battery Pack...................................................................................................35
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................35
Installing..................................................................................................................................................35
Removing/Installing the Batteries From/Into the Battery Pack......................................................36
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................36
Installing..................................................................................................................................................36
Charging Batteries....................................................................................................................................37
Charging Using an Independent Charger Plugged Into the Joystick.........................................38
SECTION 9—MOTORS ..................................................................... 39
Engaging/Disengaging the Motors .........................................................................................................39

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part No. 1125035 5At’m
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 10—WHEELS AND CASTERS .............................................. 40
Replacing Front Casters..........................................................................................................................40
Adjusting Forks .........................................................................................................................................41
Removing/Installing the Drive Wheels ................................................................................................42
Removing ...............................................................................................................................................42
Installing..................................................................................................................................................42
SECTION 11—TRANSPORTING THE WHEELCHAIR ........................... 43
LIMITED WARRANTY ..................................................................... 44

At’m 6Part No. 1125035
REGISTER YOUR PRODUCT
The benefits of registering:
1. Safeguard your investment.
2. Ensure long term maintenance and servicing of your purchase.
3. Receive updates with product information, maintenance tips, and industry news.
4. Invacare can contact you or your provider, if servicing is needed on your product.
5. It will enable Invacare to improve product designs based on your input and needs.
Register ONLINE at www.invacare.com
- or -
Complete and mail the form on the next page
Any registration information you submit will be used by Invacare Corporation only, and
protected as required by applicable laws and regulations.

Name _______________________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________________________
City ___________________ State/Province __________
Zip/Postal Code ________
Email ___________________________________ Phone No. _________________
Invacare Model No. ______________________ Serial No. __________________
Purchased From _________________________Date of Purchase:___________
1. Method of purchase: (check all that apply)
❏ Medicare ❏ Insurance ❏Medicaid ❏ Other __________________________
2. This product was purchased for use by: (check one)
❏ Self ❏ Parent ❏ Spouse ❏ Other
3. Product was purchased for use at:
❏ Home ❏ Facility ❏ Other
4. I purchased an Invacare product because:
❏ Price ❏ Features (list features) _________________________________________
5. Who referred you to Invacare products? (check all that apply)
❏Doctor ❏ Therapist ❏ Friend ❏Relative ❏Dealer/Provider ❏Other_________
❏ Advertisement (circle one): TV, Radio, Magazine, Newspaper ❏ No Referral_____
6. What additional features, if any, would you like to see on this product?
__________________________________________________________________________
7. Would you like information sent to you about Invacare products that may be available for a
particular medical condition? ❏Yes ❏No
If yes, please list any condition(s) here and we will send you information by email and/or mail about
any available Invacare products that may help treat, care for or manage such condition(s):
__________________________________________________________________________
8. Would you like to receive updated information via email or regular mail about the Invacare
home medical products sold by Invacare's dealers? ❏Yes ❏No
9. What would you like to see on the Invacare website?
__________________________________________________________________________
10. Would you like to be part of future online surveys for Invacare products? ❏ Yes ❏ No
11. User's Year of birth: ______________________________________________________
If at any time you wish not to receive future mailings from us, please contact us at Invacare Corporation,
CRM Department, 39400 Taylor Parkway, Elyria, OH 44035, or fax to 877-619-7996 and we will remove
you from our mailing list.
To find more information about our products, visit www.invacare.com.
PRODUCT REGISTRATION FORM
Register ONLINE at www.invacare.com - or -
Complete and mail this form
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SPECIAL NOTES
Part No. 1125035 9At’m
SPECIAL NOTES
WARNING/CAUTION notices as used in this manual apply to hazards or unsafe
practices which could result in personal injury or property damage.
NOTICE
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO
CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
WHEELCHAIR USER
As a manufacturer of wheelchairs, Invacare endeavors to supply a wide variety of
wheelchairs to meet many needs of the end user. However, final selection of the
type of wheelchair to be used by an individual rests solely with the user and his/her
healthcare professional capable of making such a selection.
WHEELCHAIR TIE-DOWN RESTRAINTS AND SEAT RESTRAINTS
Wheelchair users should NOT be transported in vehicles of any kind while in
wheelchairs. As of this date, the Department of Transportation has not approved
any tie-down systems for transportation of a user while in a wheelchair, in a moving
vehicle of any type.
It is Invacare’s position that users of wheelchairs should be transferred into
appropriate seating in vehicles for transportation and use be made of the restraints
made available by the auto industry. Invacare cannot and does not recommend any
wheelchair transportation systems.
 WARNINGS
Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction
with Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not
been tested by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.
The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt ONLY. It is not designed for use as a
safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If
signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately.

LABEL LOCATION
At’m 10 Part No. 1125035
LABEL LOCATION
NOTE: Warning label 1125068 is
also located on the opposite side
NOTE: Warning label 1125069 is
also located on the opposite side

TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS
Part No. 1125035 11 At’m
TYPICAL PRODUCT PARAMETERS
*NOTE: Range will vary with battery conditions, surface, terrain, and operating weight.
PARAMETERS At’m
SEAT WIDTH: 16, 18 inches
SEAT DEPTH: 14, 16 inches
BACK HEIGHT: 18, 21 inches
SEAT-TO-FLOOR: 20 inches
OVERALL WIDTH (EXCLUDING JOYSTICK): 25.5 inches
OVERALL HEIGHT
FOR 16 INCHES WIDE:
FOR 18 INCHES WIDE:
38 inches
41 inches
OVERALL LENGTH (INCLUDING ANTI-TIPPERS): 35.5 inches
WEIGHT
BASE W/O BATTERY PACK:
SEAT:
BATTERY PACK:
34 lbs
14 lbs
26 lbs
SHIPPING: 85 lbs
DRIVE WHEELS/TIRES: 12½ x 2¼ inches
CASTER W/PRECISION SEALED BEARINGS: 6-inch solid
UPHOLSTERY: Black Nylon
BATTERY SIZE (TWO [2] REQUIRED): M17 - 12 SLSM gel cell
PERFORMANCE
SPEED (M.P.H.):
MAXIMUM RAMP/SLOPE CAPABILITY:
*RANGE (VARIABLE):
WEIGHT LIMITATION:
3¾
6°
Up to 12 miles
250 lbs

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
At’m 12 Part No. 1125035
SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
 WARNING
SECTION 1 - GENERAL GUIDELINES contains important information for the safe
operation and use of this product. DO NOT use this product or any available
optional equipment without first completely reading and understanding these
instructions and any additional instructional material such as Owner’s Manuals,
Service Manuals or Instruction Sheets supplied with this product or optional
equipment. If you are unable to understand the Warnings, Cautions or Instructions,
contact a healthcare professional, dealer or technical personnel before attempting
to use this equipment - otherwise, injury or damage may occur.
CONTROLLER SETTINGS/REPAIR OR SERVICE
Set-up of the Electronic Control Unit is to be performed ONLY by a qualified technician.
The final adjustments of the controller may affect other activities of the wheelchair.
Reprogramming the controller reduces the stability/control of the wheelchair. Other
program settings could cause the wheelchair to tip over resulting in serious injury to the
user and/or damage to the surrounding property. If any individual other than a qualified
technician performs any work on these units, the warranty is void.
TIRE PRESSURE
DO NOT USE YOUR WHEELCHAIR UNLESS IT HAS THE PROPER TIRE
PRESSURE (P.S.I.) - OTHERWISE THE WHEELCHAIR MAY NOT DRIVE
CORRECTLY, STOP CORRECTLY OR MAY EXPERIENCE ERRATIC
PERFORMANCE.
Maintain tire pressure at 30 p.s.i.
DO NOT overinflate the tires. Failure to follow these suggestions may cause the tire to
explode and cause bodily harm. The recommended tire pressure is listed on the side wall
of the tire.
OPERATION INFORMATION
Invacare products are specifically designed and manufactured for use in conjunction with
Invacare accessories. Accessories designed by other manufacturers have not been tested
by Invacare and are not recommended for use with Invacare products.
Performance adjustments should only be made by professionals of the healthcare field or
persons fully conversant with this process and the driver's capabilities. Incorrect settings
could cause injury to the driver, bystanders, damage to the chair and to surrounding
property.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
Part No. 1125035 13 At’m
After the wheelchair has been set-up, check to make sure that the wheelchair performs to
the specifications entered during the set-up procedure. If the wheelchair does NOT
perform to specifications, turn the wheelchair Off immediately and reenter set-up
specifications. Repeat this procedure until the wheelchair performs to specifications.
ALWAYS shift your weight in the direction you are turning. DO NOT shift your weight in
the opposite direction of the turn. Shifting your weight in the opposite direction of the
turn may cause the inside drive wheel to lose traction and the wheelchair to tip over.
DO NOT tip the wheelchair over without assistance.
Anti-tippers MUST be used at all times. When outdoors on wet, soft ground or gravel
surfaces, anti-tippers may not provide the same level of protection against tip over. Extra
caution MUST be observed when traversing such surfaces.
DO NOT shift your weight or sitting position toward the direction you are reaching as the
wheelchair may tip over.
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat.
DO NOT engage or disengage the motor engagement handles until the power is in the Off
position.
DO NOT attempt to transfer into or out of the wheelchair without the motor engagement
handles in the engaged (horizontal) position.
DO NOT operate on roads, streets or highways.
DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 6°.
DO NOT attempt to move up or down an incline with a water, ice or oil film.
DO NOT attempt to drive over curbs or obstacles. Doing so may cause your wheelchair
to turn over and cause bodily harm or damage to the chair.
DO NOT leave the power button in the On position when entering or exiting your
wheelchair.
DO NOT stand on the frame of the wheelchair.
DO NOT stand on the flip-up footboard, otherwise damage may occur. When getting in
or out of the wheelchair, make sure that the flip-up footboard is in the upward position.
Keep fingers and hands clear of the drive wheel.
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap.
The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety
device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear
appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately.
The basket under the seat is designed for light items such as jackets and umbrellas. DO
NOT overload the basket.
Ensure that the items stored in the basket are fully contained within the basket - otherwise
they could become entangled with the friction drive and may cause injury to the user or
damage the wheelchair.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
At’m 14 Part No. 1125035
Before performing any maintenance, adjustment or service verify that on/off switch on
the joystick is in the off position.
Avoid storage or use near external flame or combustible products.
ACCESSORIES
EXTREME care should be exercised when using oxygen in close proximity to electric
circuits and other combustible materials. Contact your oxygen supplier for instruction in
the use of oxygen.
BATTERIES
The warranty and performance specifications contained in this manual are based on the
use of deep cycle gel cell batteries. Invacare strongly recommends their use as the power
source for this unit.
Carefully read battery/battery charger information prior to installing, servicing or
operating your wheelchair.
CHARGING BATTERIES
NEVER attempt to recharge the batteries by attaching cables directly to the battery
terminals.
DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries and operate the wheelchair at the same time.
DO NOT operate wheelchair with extension cord attached to the AC cable.
DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair has been exposed to ANY
type of moisture.
DO NOT attempt to recharge the batteries when the wheelchair is outside.
DO NOT sit in the wheelchair while charging the batteries.
READ and CAREFULLY follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each charger
(supplied or purchased). If charging instructions are not supplied, consult a qualified
technician for proper procedures.
When using an extension cord, use only a three (3) wire extension cord having at least 16
AWG (American Wire Gauge) wire and the same or higher electrical rating as the device
being connected. Use of improper extension cord could result in risk of fire and electric
shock.
Ensure the pins of the extension cord plug are the same number, size, and shape as those
on the charger.
DO NOT under any circumstances cut or remove the round grounding plug from the
charger AC cable plug or the extension cord plug.
Three (3) prong to two (2) prong adapters should not be used. Use of three (3) prong
adapters can result in improper grounding and present a shock hazard to the user.

SECTION 1—GENERAL GUIDELINES
Part No. 1125035 15 At’m
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
DO NOT, under any circumstances, cut or remove the round grounding prong from any
plug used with or for Invacare products. Some devices are equipped with three-prong
(grounding) plugs for protection against possible shock hazards and fire. Where a two-
prong wall receptacle is encountered, it is the personal responsibility and obligation of the
customer to contact a qualified electrician and have the two-prong receptacle replaced
with a properly grounded three-prong wall receptacle in accordance with the National
Electrical Code. If you must use an extension cord, use ONLY a three-wire extension cord
having the same or higher electrical rating as the device being connected. In addition,
Invacare has placed RED/ORANGE warning tags on some equipment. DO NOT remove
these tags.
RAIN TEST
Invacare has tested its power wheelchairs in accordance with ISO 7176 “Rain Test.” This
provides the end user or his/her assistant sufficient time to remove his/her power
wheelchair from a rain storm and retain wheelchair operation.
DO NOT leave power wheelchair in a rain storm of any kind.
DO NOT use power wheelchair in a shower.
DO NOT store power wheelchair in a damp area for an extended period of time.
Direct exposure to excessive rain or dampness may cause the chair to malfunction
electrically and mechanically, may cause the chair to prematurely rust or may damage the
upholstery.
Check to ensure that the battery pack is securely fastened, that all electrical connections
are secure at all times and joystick boot is NOT torn or cracked where water can enter.
DO NOT use the wheelchair if the joystick boot is torn or cracked. If the joystick boot
becomes torn or cracked, replace IMMEDIATELY.
WEIGHT TRAINING
Invacare DOES NOT recommend the use of its wheelchairs as a weight training
apparatus. Invacare wheelchairs have NOT been designed or tested as a seat for any kind
of weight training. If occupant uses said wheelchair as a weight training apparatus,
Invacare shall NOT be liable for bodily injury and the warranty is void.
WEIGHT LIMITATION
The At’m wheelchairs have a weight limitation of 250 lbs.

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION
At’m 16 Part No. 1125035
SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION
 WARNING
CAUTION: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ THIS INFORMATION
REGARDING THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC
INTERFERENCE ON YOUR POWERED WHEELCHAIR.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) From Radio Wave Sources
Powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters (in this text, both will be referred to
as powered wheelchairs) 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 powered
wheelchair 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 powered wheelchair 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.
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 warnings 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 (transmitters-receivers with the antenna
mounted directly on the transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens band (CB)
radios, "walkie talkie", security, fire and police transceivers, cellular telephones,
and other personal communication devices).
NOTE: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals 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 vehicle; and
3) Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast
transmitters (radio and TV broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM)
radios.
NOTE: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers,
AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette players, and small appliances, such as elec-
tric shavers and hair dryers, so far as we know, are not likely to cause EMI problems to
your powered wheelchair.

SECTION 2—EMI INFORMATION
Part No. 1125035 17 At’m
 WARNING
Powered Wheelchair 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 powered wheelchair's control system while
using these devices. This can affect powered wheelchair movement and braking.
Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible
interference with the control system of the powered wheelchair.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations,
amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect
powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters.
FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS LISTED BELOW SHOULD REDUCE THE
CHANCE OF UNINTENDED BRAKE RELEASE OR POWERED WHEELCHAIR
MOVEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
1) Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters receivers), such as citizens
band (CB) radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular
phones, while the powered wheelchair 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 powered wheelchair
OFF as soon as it is safe;
4) Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the powered
wheelchair, may make it more susceptible to EMI (NOTE: There is no easy way
to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair); and
5) Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the powered
wheelchair 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 (as of May 1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection);
2) The immunity level of this product is unknown.
Modification of any kind to the electronics of this wheelchair as manufactured by
Invacare may adversely affect the RFI immunity levels.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
At’m 18 Part No. 1125035
SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF
WHEELCHAIRS
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the close attention of the wheelchair
user as well as the assistant. This manual points out the most common procedures and
techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is
important to practice and master these safe techniques until you are comfortable in
maneuvering around the frequently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The techniques that are discussed on the
following pages have been used successfully by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that
may differ from those described in this manual. Invacare recognizes and encourages each
individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles that
they may encounter, however ALL WARNINGS and CAUTIONS given in this manual
MUST be followed. Techniques in this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair
user and assistant with “safety” as the most important consideration for all.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
 WARNING
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap.
The seat positioning strap is a positioning belt ONLY. It is not designed for use as a
safety device withstanding high stress loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If
signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced immediately.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times
maintain proper balance. Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright and
stable during normal daily activities as long as you do not move beyond the center of
gravity. DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the
armrests.
COPING WITH EVERYDAY OBSTACLES
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be alleviated somewhat by learning
how to manage your wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity to maintain stability
and balance.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
Part No. 1125035 19 At’m
A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANTS
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lift-
ing by means of removable (detachable) parts of the wheelchair may result in injury
to the user and/or damage to the wheelchair.
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required, remember to use good body
mechanics. Keep your back straight and bend your knees whenever tipping the
wheelchair or traversing curbs or other impediments.
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before
attempting it alone.
LIFTING/STAIRWAYS
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to move an occupied power wheelchair between floors using a
stairway. Use an elevator to move an occupied power wheelchair between floors. If
moving a power wheelchair between floors by means of a stairway, the occupant
MUST be removed and transported independently of the power wheelchair.
Extreme caution is advised when it is necessary to move an unoccupied power
wheelchair up or down the stairs. Invacare recommends using two (2) assistants and
making thorough preparations.
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts.
Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in
injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.
The weight of the wheelchair without the user is approximately 74 lbs. Use proper
lifting techniques (lift with your legs) to avoid injury.
Follow this procedure for moving the wheelchair between floors when an elevator is NOT
available or lifting the wheelchair is necessary:
NOTE: When using a stairway to move the wheelchair, seat and any accessories, move all
wheelchair components away from the stairway prior to reassembly.
1. Remove the occupant from the wheelchair.
2. Transfer the wheelchair to the desired location. Refer to Transporting the Wheelchair
on page 43.
 WARNING
DO NOT use an escalator to move a wheelchair between floors. Serious bodily
injury may occur.

SECTION 3—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
At’m 20 Part No. 1125035
PERCENTAGE OF WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick
them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending or
bending forward, it is important to use the casters as a tool to maintain stability and
balance.
Many activities require the wheelchair user to reach, bend and transfer in and out of
the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the normal balance, cen-
ter of gravity, and weight distribution of the wheelchair. To determine and establish
your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in
several combinations in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional BEFORE
attempting active use of the wheelchair.
REACHING, LEANING AND BENDING - FORWARD
 WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if
you have to move forward in the seat or
pick them up from the floor by reaching
down between your knees.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE
3.1.
Position the front casters so that they are
extended as far forward as possible and
engage motor release levers.
FIGURE 3.1F - REACHING, LEANING
AND BENDING - FORWARD
REACHING AND BENDING - BACKWARD
 WARNING
DO NOT lean over the top of the back
upholstery. This will change your center
of gravity and may cause you to tip over.
NOTE: For this procedure, refer to FIGURE
3.2.
Position wheelchair as close as possible to
the desired object. Point the front casters
rearward to create the longest possible
wheelbase. Reach back only as far as your
arm will extend without changing your
sitting position.
FIGURE 3.2 - REACHING AND
BENDING - BACKWARD