Karma Flexx Series User manual

User manual
Flexx Series
(KM-8022 、 KM-8522 、 KM-8022S 、 KM-8522S)

GENERAL WARNING
●DO maintain your chair well, in particular check the tire pressure since this
affects the efficiency of the brakes. To know the correct tire pressure, please
see the walls of the tires.
●DO make sure both brakes are applied before getting in or out of the chair.
●DO make sure both brakes are applied when the chair is not being pushed
or used.
●DO take care when climbing kerbs or turning on slopes.
●DO avoid steep or uneven surfaces that may cause the chair to tip over.
●DO avoid soft surfaces because the castors may become bogged down.
●DO travel smoothly in all conditions.
●DO look well ahead to anticipate hazards such as furniture, doors, potholes,
etc.
●DO make sure that both feet are safely on the footrests and that clothing is
safely tucked out of the way so that it cannot get caught in the wheels.
●DO take care when traveling up or down or across inclines.
●DO keep both hands on the push handles to control the chair, if you are the
attendant.
●DO pay attention to keep the wheelchair balanced.
●DO check the frame and components regularly and refer to this user guide
during and after the warranty period.
●DO tie-up the upholstery or replace which with a new one when it becomes
loose.
●DO lubricate bearings regularly.
●DO equip with anti-tippers to avoid falling backwards.
●DO equip with a seat belt designed for disabled people.
●DO equip with "ankle supports" for disabled people.
●DO clean both hands after oiling the wheelchair.
●DO keep far away from flame.
●DO tighten the screws of headrest tubes (if applied).
●DO NOT overload the chair in any circumstance.
●DO NOT hang anything heavy on the back of the chair that could cause the

chair to become unstable, particularly when negotiating inclines.
●DO NOT allow more than one user at a time.
●DO NOT use with an unconscious patient.
●DO NOT use other transport to pull the wheelchair.
●DO NOT do "wheelies", as you my fall or tip over backwards and suffer a
severe injury.
●DO NOT sit in a wheelchair within a moving vehicle unless it has affixed the
labels of hook mark.
●DO NOT go too fast or turn too quickly.
●DO NOT stand on the footplates when getting in or out of the chair.
●DO NOT go down steps forward, whether solo or with an attendant.
●DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts.
Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of the wheelchair may
result in injury to the user and/or assistant or damage to the wheelchair.
●DO NOT use the wheelchair when the back is folded. This alters the centre
of gravity and may cause the wheelchair to tip backwards. The back should
only be folded for storage or transport of the wheelchair.
●DO NOT hang anything on the back joint that could cause the backrest
folding suddenly and may cause injury.
YOU AND YOUR KARMASERVICEPROVIDER
●No tools are required for assembly. Your wheelchair should be assembled
by your authorized KARMA dealer. Your authorized KARMA dealer is also
your service provider. Unauthorized repairs, upgrades and add-ons will void
your warranty. Anything wheelchair related that requires tools should be
done by your authorized KARMA service provider. Your KARMA service
provider has the necessary service/maintenance manual for your
wheelchair.
●If you have any defective parts or lose any parts, please contact your dealer
for repair and/or replacement. Please only use parts authorized by KARMA.
Use of parts that are not authorized by KARMA will void your warranty.
●Part numbers are listed on our bill of materials (explosion drawings), which
we give to our authorized dealers and service providers. Customers should

order parts through their dealer as well as all repairs and scheduled
maintenance.
●Customers should go to their dealer for all service needs to guarantee their
warranty is not void. Always go to an authorized service provider.
Unauthorized repairs will void your warranty. Procedures other than those
described in this manual must be performed by a qualified technician.
They also have the service manual with a complete list of maintenance
required to keep your KARMA wheelchair in top performance. Please check
the warranty section of this manual to find out what KARMA guarantees and
what maintenance and parts that are not covered by our warranty.
●KARMA does not have an official list of service providers at this time. Please
contact your dealer for service. If you cannot contact your dealer, please
contact another authorized KARMA dealer for service. If all else fails, contact
KARMA directly via our website or give us a call and we can refer you to your
new service provider.
CE MARKING
●This wheelchair complies with the requirements of the Medical Devices
Directive 93/42/EEC.
CAUTION:
●When prescribing wheelchairs for use by full or partial amputees
(above or below knee, single or double) or other conditions that affects
the user's natural center of gravity and might cause the wheelchair to
tip or the person on the wheelchair to fall off, we suggest contacting
your therapist or dealer as well as attaching anti-tippers, pelvic belt, or
other additional safety accessories.
●Anti-tippers MUST be equipped when the backrest angle is set as
greater than or equal to four degrees.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PREFACE.................................................................................................................................................................1
2. SAFETY.....................................................................................................................................................................1
2.1 BEFORE USING.................................................................................................................................................1
2.2 WHILE MOVING..............................................................................................................................................1
2.3 GENERAL............................................................................................................................................................4
2.4 UPHOLSTERY....................................................................................................................................................4
2.5 ANTI-TIPPERS ..................................................................................................................................................4
2.6 MAXIMUM USER WEIGHT LIMIT...............................................................................................................5
2.7 AVOID GENERAL MISUSE.............................................................................................................................5
2.8 LABELING...........................................................................................................................................................6
3. INTENDED USE & PARTS.............................................................................................................................7
3.1 INTENDED USE.................................................................................................................................................7
3.2 FLEXX PARTS DESCRIPTION.........................................................................................................................8
4. OPERATION.......................................................................................................................................................10
4.1 PREPARING FOR USE ..................................................................................................................................10
4.2 CASTER ANGLE REVIEW.............................................................................................................................12
4.3 GETTING INTO YOUR WHEELCHAIR (SEE FIGURE 4.19)..................................................................12
4.4 REAR WHEEL DISASSEMBLY.....................................................................................................................13
4.5 REAR WHEEL ASSEMBLY............................................................................................................................13
4.6 BACKREST ANGLE ADJUSTMENT.............................................................................................................14
4.7 SEAT DEPTH ADJUSTMENT.......................................................................................................................15
4.8 ARMREST ADJUSTMENT............................................................................................................................16
4.9 FOOTPLATE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT.........................................................................................................17
4.10 FOOTREST....................................................................................................................................................18
4.11 PELVIC BELT.................................................................................................................................................18
4.12 MANUAL PARKING BRAKE.....................................................................................................................20
4.13 CASTER ANGLE ADJUSTMENT..............................................................................................................21
4.14 HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE PUSH HANDLE (OPTIONAL)........................................................................22
4.15 ANTI-TIPPERS (OPTIONAL)...................................................................................................................22
4.16 TRANSFERRING IN....................................................................................................................................23
4.17 TRANSFERRING OUT................................................................................................................................23
4.18 TILTING.........................................................................................................................................................25
4.19 GOING DOWN KERBS.............................................................................................................................25
4.20 GOING UP KERBS.....................................................................................................................................26
4.21 GOING UP OR DOWN STEPS/STAIRS.................................................................................................27
4.22 GENERAL USE.............................................................................................................................................27
4.23 STORAGE......................................................................................................................................................28

4.24 TRANSPORTATION....................................................................................................................................29
4.25 FITTING SEAT BELT....................................................................................................................................31
5. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................32
5.1 DAILY CHECK.................................................................................................................................................32
5.2 REGULAR MAINTENANCE RECORD........................................................................................................32
5.3 ADJUSTMENT MANUAL.............................................................................................................................35
6. ACCESSORIES..................................................................................................................................................42
7. TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................................................................................................43
8. SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................................................44
9. CLEANING & RECYCLING........................................................................................................................50
9.1 CLEANING......................................................................................................................................................50
9.2 RECYCLING.....................................................................................................................................................50
10. WARRANTY ....................................................................................................................................................51
10.1 SERIAL NUMBER........................................................................................................................................51
10.2 WARRANTY POLICY..................................................................................................................................51

1
1. PREFACE
1.1 Please read this owner's manual carefully before using the wheelchair.
Any improper use of the wheelchair may result in harm or injury.
1.2 This owner's manual includes operation, unfolding/ folding instructions
and how to prevent possible accidents for the aspects of the wheelchair.
1.3 This owner's manual is written for KARMA wheelchair: Flexx Series.
1.4 The symbols used in this manual are explained below. Pay special
attention to the parts marked with these symbols.
WARNING:
Improper use could lead the user to severe injury or death.
CAUTION:
Improper use could lead the user to severe injury and/or
damage to your wheelchair.
SUGGESTION:
Follow these instructions to keep the wheelchair in good
condition.
1.5 This manual includes the repair and maintenance chart as well as the
warranty.
1.6 If someone else uses the wheelchair, make sure that you give him or her
this owner's manual for his or her reference.
1.7 As designs change, some illustrations and pictures in this manual may not
correspond to the wheelchair that you purchased. We reserve the right to
make design modifications without further notice.
2. SAFETY
2.1 Before Using
The user and attendant must be familiar with the operation of the wheelchair
before using. Pedestrian traffic rules apply to the wheelchair. Please be safe.
2.2 While Moving
Please always keep these following safety guidelines in mind.
2.2.1 Doorways
The safest way to operate the wheelchair is on level floors that are free of
obstacles. If possible, always use a ramp to enter or exit a facility. Keeping
your hands on the push rims will allow you to maintain the maximum

2
balance. DON'T try to force yourself over an obstacle and use the sides of
a doorway to pull yourself through a passageway.
2.2.2 Leaning and Standing
DO NOT lean over the side or stand on the wheelchair since such an
action may cause you to lose balance and fall. (See Figures 2.1 and 2.2)
2.2.3 Negotiating Inclines
2.2.3.1. Never turn on a hill due to the danger of tipping over.
2.2.3.2. When an attendant is pushing the wheelchair straight up a slope, if
the user needs to go down midway on the slope, walk backwards
until the user is on level ground. (See Figures 2.3 and 2.4)
Figure 2.1
Figure 2.2
Figure 2.3
Figure 2.4
2.2.3.3. Do not drive on 7 degrees of incline to avoid danger. When
negotiating inclines, don't propel up to 5 degrees of inclines
diagonally.
2.2.3.4. Avoid stopping on an incline, it can potentially cause you to lose
control of the wheelchair.
2.2.3.5 Do not use the brakes to slow down or stop the wheelchair, this
could cause it to stop suddenly and make the user lose control or fall
out of the wheelchair.
2.2.3.6 Whenever possible, utilize help from an assistant/attendant while
negotiating inclines.
CAUTION:
●Although the product has met ISO 7176-1 requirements, we still
recommend you not to drive on any slope (in any direction) greater than
7 degrees.
●If your daily activities require crossing slopes, we suggest you purchase
and install anti-tippers to increase the stability of the wheelchair.

3
2.2.4 Kerbs
2.2.4.1. Whenever possible, get help from an assistant/attendant. If you have
assistance, make sure that your chair is equipped with push handle.
2.2.4.2. DO avoid huge impacts when descending a kerb. A huge impact
could probably damage the wheelchair.
2.2.4.3. Never try to scale or descend a kerb that exceeds a normal height.
2.2.4.4. Always be careful and never move up or down a kerb in reverse
without an attendant.
WARNING:
●Any improper use of the wheelchair could cause severe injury or death.
●For increasing your safety, please make sure that you have realized those
guidelines as mentioned previously.
●ALWAYS follow The Use of Invalid Carriages on Highways Regulations
outdoors and the guidelines written in this owner's manual.
2.2.5 Streets
2.2.5.1. Always cross streets with great caution.
Reflective tape on the wheelchair and/or your
clothing will make you more visible to drivers.
2.2.5.2. Please comply with traffic safety code.
2.2.5.3. Avoid potholes and rough terrain that might
cause the casters to get stuck.(See Figures 2.5)
Figure 2.5
2.2.6 Stairs
2.2.6.1. Always use two or more assistants. Tilt the wheelchair to its point of
equilibrium. One assistant (at the back) holds the wheelchair up
against the first step, gripping the handles firmly to lift. The second
assistant, holding firmly a fixed part of the front frame, lifts the
wheelchair above the stairs and holds it while the first attendant
places one foot on the following step and repeat the operation.( See
Figures 2.6~2.7)
2.2.6.2. Never go down steps forwards.
2.2.6.3. Never use an escalator for transport; use an elevator.

4
Figure 2.6
Figure 2.7
2.3 General
2.3.1 The expected service life of the product is five years, presuming that
the product is used daily in accordance with the safety operation
instructions, inspection and maintenance instructions, and intended
use, which described in this manual.
2.3.2 Always make sure BOTH brakes are applied before getting in or out of
the wheelchair.
2.3.3 Never stand on the footplates when getting in or out of the wheelchair
2.3.4 Never carry more than one passenger. KARMA wheelchairs are limited
to one user.
2.3.5 Use caution to assure your clothing doesn't get tangled with the wheels.
2.4 Upholstery
2.4.1 When cleaning the upholstery, use warm water and a mild soap.
2.4.2 Upholstery cleaner/foam can also be used, but avoid other cleaning
solvents.
2.4.3 Do stay far away from any flame because it might injure the user and
damage the wheelchair
2.5 Anti-Tippers
Please strongly consider purchasing anti-tippers and always use them to
avoid personal injury. The distance between the end of each anti-tipper and
the rear wheel is at least 5 cm; the distance to the ground is no more than 5
cm.

5
2.6 Maximum User Weight Limit
2.6.1 The maximum user weight limit for Flexx Series is 130 kg. For detail
information, refer to Section 8. SPECIFICATIONS.
2.6.2 Please note that loading exceeding maximum capacity can damage
your wheelchair and cause malfunctions, which leads to a safety hazard.
The warranty does not cover damage caused by improper operation of
the wheelchair.
2.7 Avoid General Misuse
Please note that our "Owner's Manual" contains a number of cautions -- any
vehicle can cause injury if misused -- use within our guidelines and with
reasonable care and your safety will be increased. Your wheelchair will give
years of safe use if used sensibly and carefully. Be aware that careless use
endangers your own safety as well as that of others. ALWAYS follow the
Highway Code when outdoors and the guidelines written in this manual.

6
2.8 Labeling
Please carefully read all the labeling on the wheelchair before driving it. Do
not remove them. Protect them for future reference.

7
3. INTENDED USE & PARTS
3.1 Intended Use
3.1.1 The Flexx Series is a self-propelled or transit wheelchair. That is, it can
either be propelled by the user (self-propelled) or by an attendant
(transit).
3.1.2 The difference between KM-8022 and KM-8522 is that the backrest of
KM-8022 is fixed, and that of KM-8522 is foldable.
3.1.3 It is designed to be used indoors, and with certain restrictions outdoor.
3.1.4 The bright color of key lockers make it easy for the user to operate the
following functions without hesitation: swing away the footrests, flip
back and adjust the armrest.
3.1.5 It is suitable for a single user up to 130 kg in weight. Hand brakes are
provided for both rear wheels.
3.1.6 It is a highly adjustable wheelchair, and the detachable parts are easy to
operate. Please refer to Section 4. OPERATION and Section 5.3
Adjustment Manual for detail instructions of adjustments.
3.1.7 Rear wheels with 24" solid tires and ergonomic handrims are provided
as standard equipment. It also has an extremely durable aluminum alloy
frame with tough accessories and does not deteriorate when exposed
to extreme temperature.(neither the user nor the attendant need to
touch any metal part in normal use)
3.1.8 The front casters are 7" solid tire as standard equipment.
3.1.9 When prescribing wheelchairs for use by full or partial amputees.
(above or below knee, single or double) or other conditions that affects
the user's natural centre of gravity, we suggest contacting your
therapist or dealer as well as attaching anti-tippers.
3.1.10 Please contact your dealer for the optional accessories of the Flexx
series which are planned to be launched shortly.

8
3.2 Flexx Parts Description
3.2.1 Flexx
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
1. Push Handle
2. Attendant Brake (Optional)
3. Side Panel
4. Quick Release Rear Wheel
5. Anti-Tipper (Optional)
6. Manual Parking Brake
7. Cross Brace (Cross Bar)
8. Caster
9. Backrest Upholstery
10.Height Adjustable Armrest
11. Seat Upholstery
12. Swing-Away & Detachable Footrest
13. Two-Piece Calf Strap
14. Footplate
.
CAUTION:
●Standard equipments are subject to change without notice.

9
3.2.2 Flexx S
(Standard upholstery, Flip-back armrests and Pull to lock brakes)
1. Push Handle
2. Height Adjustable Armrest
3. Quick Release Rear Wheel
4. Manual Parking Brake
5. Cross Brace (Cross Bar)
6. Caster
7. Backrest Upholstery
8. Side Panel
9. Seat Upholstery
10. Swing-Away & Detachable Footrest
11. Two-Piece Calf Strap
12. Footplate

10
4. OPERATION
4.1 Preparing For Use
4.1.1 Unpacking
4.1.1.1 If any part proves defective or missing, please notify your dealer
immediately.
4.1.1.2 Please consult this owner's manual for complete instructions on the
installation and operation of your Flexx .
4.1.2 Assembly of Swing-Away & Detachable Footrests
Please follow the below instructions for the assembly of Swing-Away &
Detachable Footrests.
4.1.2.1 Footrests are packaged in a carton. (See Figure 4.1).
4.1.2.2 The items included are as show in the list below. (See Table 4.1 and
Figure 4.2 )
4.1.2.3 Insert the footplate into the footrest. (See Figure 4.3)
4.1.2.4 Adjust the footplate to the appropriate length, and insert the bolt
and the nut. (See Figure 4.4 and 4.5)
4.1.2.5 Use the #4 Allen Key wrench provided by KARMA to tighten the bolt
and the nut. (See Figure 4.6)
Figure 4.1
Figure 4.2
Figure 4.3
Figure 4.4
Figure 4.5
Figure 4.6

11
Table 4.1 Swing-Away & Detachable Footrest Assembly Part List
No
Part
Quantity
1
Swing-Away &
Detachable Footrest
2
2
Tube-in-Centre Footplate
2
3
M6 Bolt
2
4
M6 Nut
2
5
Calf Strap
2
4.1.3 Unfolding
While unfolding the Flexx, follow these instructions as listed below:
4.1.3.1 Stand at the side of the wheelchair as you prefer, hold the armrests
and pull outwards. (See Figure 4.7).
4.1.3.2 Put your two hands on the seat pan and push down until the seat is
fully lowered, be careful not to get your fingers caught. Make sure
the frame is firmly seated in its holder (See Figure 4.8)
4.1.3.3 Install the footrests. (See Figure 4.9)
4.1.3.4 Flip the footplates down. (See Figure 4.10)
4.1.3.5 Fix the calf straps, and attach them. (See Figure 4.11 & 4.12)
4.1.3.6 Place the back and seat cushion on the wheelchair.
4.1.3.7 Ready to use!
Figure 4.7
Figure 4.8
Figure 4.9
Figure 4.10
Figure 4.11
Figure 4.12

12
CAUTION:
●While completing step 4.1.3.2, never put your fingers
around the sides or under the wheelchair as they can
be trapped between the seat and the frame. (See the
figure at the right.)
●The calf straps should be adjusted to the length
appropriate for the user's condition.
4.1.4 Folding
While folding the Flexx, follow these instructions as listed below:
4.1.4.1 Unfasten the calf strap.
4.1.4.2 Flip up the footplates. (See Figure 4.13)
4.1.4.3 Pull up the seat by holding the front and the back of the seat. (See
Figure 4.14)
4.1.4.4 Folding is now completed. (See Figure 4.15)
4.1.4.5 If the model No. is KM-8522, the backrest tubes could be folded
(Figure 4-16)
Figure 4.13
Figure 4.14
Figure 4.15
Figure 4.16
CAUTION:
●Be careful not to get your fingers caught when folding the wheelchair.
4.2 Caster Angle Review
4.3 Getting Into Your Wheelchair (See figure 4.19)
4.3.1 Push the wheelchair against a wall or a solid piece of furniture.
4.3.2 Apply the brakes.
4.3.3 Flip the footplates up.
4.3.4 The user lowers the body and sits on the wheelchair gently.
4.3.5 Fold down the footplates and position your feet in front of the heel
loops.
4.3.6 Release the brakes.

13
4.3.7 Getting Out of Your Wheelchair (See figure 4.20)
4.3.7.1 Apply the brakes.
4.3.7.2 Up move the feet away from the footplates and fold up the
footplates.
4.3.7.3 With one hand on the armrest, the person should bend slightly
forward, to bring the body weight to the front of the seat, and then
with both feet firmly on the ground and one foot behind the other,
push up into the upright position.
Figure 4.19
Figure 4.20
4.4 Rear Wheel Disassembly
Quick release rear wheels are optional. If your wheelchair is equipped with
quick release rear wheels, please follow these instructions as listed below.
4.4.1 Ensure that the brake is in the unlocked position first.
4.4.2 Support the weight of the chair with one hand by holding the push
handle.
4.4.3 Press the hub cover and pull out the rear wheel.
4.4.4 Remove the rear wheel. (See Figure 4.21)
4.5 Rear Wheel Assembly
4.5.1 First ensure that the brake is in the OFF position.
4.5.2 Take up the wheel with axle and press the hub cover in the centre of the
axle, as above.
4.5.3 This retracts the ball bearings that will allow you to push the axle into
the wheel bracket that is located on the lower rear frame of the
wheelchair.
4.5.4 When you remove your thumb from the button on the axle, the ball
bearings should be visible protruding from the axle at the back of the
wheel bracket. This will secure the wheel safely in the frame. (See Figure
4.22)

14
Figure 4.21
Figure 4.22
CAUTION:
●You must make sure that the axle is fully located in the wheelchair bracket
and that the ball bearings are fully open and have positively attached the
wheel in the frame.
●The rear wheel can be mounted at different positions on the frame to
alter the seat height and overall stability of the chair. Changing the wheel
position should be carried out by your approved repairer or therapist.
●Do keep the axle clean and lubricated with light oil or maintenance spray.
●If pneumatic tires are fitted, please maintain them at the correct tire
pressure.
●When the wheelchair is occupied, DO NOT try to remove the rear wheel
even when anti-tippers are equipped.
4.6 Backrest Angle Adjustment
To adjust the backrest angle, follow the instruction as listed below and in
Section 5.3.4:
4.6.1 Flip back the armrest.
4.6.2 Please refer to Section 5.3.4 Backrest Angle
Adjustment. Use the tool provided by KARMA to
loosen the bolts and nuts at the both sides of the
backrest frame.
4.6.3 Adjust the backrest forward or backward to the
position as desired. The scale showing the back
angle is located on the back bracket (See Figure
4.23)
Figure 4.23
4.6.4 Retighten the bolts and nuts firmly.
CAUTION:
●The adjustment is in increments of 4〫(6 positions), and the range of
adjustment is 20〫(from -4〫to 16〫)