Otto Bock Start series User manual

33
Instructions for Use for the Start series
Contents
Page
1 General Information .................................................................................................... 35
1.1 Preface .................................................................................................................. 35
1.2 Intended Use ........................................................................................................ 35
1.3 Field of Application .............................................................................................. 35
1.4 CE conformity ....................................................................................................... 36
1.5 Liability ................................................................................................................. 36
2 Safety Instructions ...................................................................................................... 36
2.1 Symbol Legend ..................................................................................................... 36
2.2 General Safety Instructions ................................................................................. 37
3 Delivery / Preparing the Wheelchair for Use .............................................................40
4 Folding – Transport .....................................................................................................41
5 Accessories ................................................................................................................ 42
5.1 Anti-tipper.............................................................................................................. 42
5.2 Transport wheels................................................................................................... 42
5.3 Crutch holder with hook and loop strap............................................................... 43
5.4 Side panels (ip-up and removable)..................................................................... 43
5.5 Plug-on wheel lock lever extension ...................................................................... 43
5.6 Drum brakes .........................................................................................................43
5.7 Wheel lock for one-handed operation ..................................................................44
5.8 Tray........................................................................................................................ 44
5.9 Lap belt .................................................................................................................44
5.10 Elevating footrest ................................................................................................ 44
5.11 Push handles, height adjustable / removable .................................................... 45
5.12 Wheelbase extension .......................................................................................... 45
5.13 Back upholstery, adaptable ................................................................................ 45
5.14 Folding back ........................................................................................................45
5.15 Spoke protectors.................................................................................................45
5.16 Amputation legrest .............................................................................................. 46
5.17 Infusion stand...................................................................................................... 46
5.18 The Back ............................................................................................................. 46
5.19 The Seat .............................................................................................................. 46

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6 Adjustment / Assembly Instructions .......................................................................... 47
6.1 Adjusting seat height and seat inclincation.......................................................... 47
6.2 Changing the wheelbase ......................................................................................48
6.3 Caster wheels ....................................................................................................... 49
6.4 Wheel lock............................................................................................................. 50
6.5 Adjusting the brake force for rear wheel with drum brake................................... 51
6.6 Adjusting the angle of the footplate ..................................................................... 51
6.7 Adjusting the height of the footrest ...................................................................... 52
6.8 Adjusting the angle of the elevating footrest........................................................ 52
6.9 Adjusting the height of the armrest for desk side panel ...................................... 53
6.10 Adjusting the seat depth ..................................................................................... 53
6.11 Adjusting the back height.................................................................................... 54
6.12 Seat upholstery ................................................................................................... 54
6.13 Adapting the back upholstery ............................................................................. 55
6.14 Setting rear wheel tracking (M5)......................................................................... 56
7 Maintenance, Cleaning and Care ............................................................................... 57
8 Changing Tires ............................................................................................................ 58
9 Technical Data............................................................................................................. 60
10 Information on Re-Use ................................................................................................ 67

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1 General Information
1.1 Preface
Congratulations on choosing a lightweight wheelchair from the Start series, a high-quality pro-
duct that offers versatile applications for everyday use at home and outdoors. Before using your
wheelchair, it is essential to read the sections “Delivery / Preparing the Wheelchair for Use” and
“Safety Instructions” .
The section “Accessories” presents additional components of the Start which can expand its
field of application and improve its comfort. The section “Adjustment / Assembly Instructions”
provides an overview of the possibilities to customize the wheelchair to your personal needs
and preferences. The model as described in these Instructions for Use is subject to technical
changes without notice.
1.2 Intended Use
The lightweight wheelchairs of the Start series are designed solely for people who are unable to
walk or who have a walking impediment. The wheelchairs can be moved either by the patients
themselves or by another person.
The Otto Bock warranty applies only when the product is used according to the specified con-
ditions and for the intended purposes, following all manufacturer‘s recommendations.
1.3 Field of Application
The versatility of the Start series wheelchairs and their modular design make them suitable for
patients who have walking impediments or walking inabilities due to:
• Paralyses
• Loss of limbs (lower limb amputation)
• Defective or deformed limbs
• Joint contractures or defects
• Diseases such as cardiac or circulatory insufficiency, balance disorders or cachexia as well
as for geriatric patients who still have usable residual strength in the upper limbs.

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Fitting considerations:
• Body height and body weight (max. load 125 kg (for M4 XXL: 160 kg, for M6 Junior: 90 kg)
• Physical and psychological limitations
• Age of the patient
• Home and living conditions
• Environment
1.4 CE conformity
This product meets the requirements of the 93/42/EWG guidelines for medical products. This
product has been classified as a class I product according to the classification criteria outlined
in appendix IX of the guidelines. The declaration of conformity was therefore created by Otto
Bock with sole responsibility according to appendix VII of the guidelines.
1.5 Liability
The manufacturer’s warranty applies only if the product has been used under the conditions
and for the purposes described. The manufacturer recommends that the product be used and
maintained according to the instructions for use.
The manufacturer is not responsible for damages caused by components and spare parts not
approved by the manufacturer. Repairs must be carried out exclusively by authorized dealers or
by the manufacturer.
2 Safety Instructions
2.1. Symbol Legend
DANGER!
Warning messages regarding possible risks of accident or injury.
CAUTION!
Warning messages regarding possible technical damages.
INFORMATION!
Information for operating the product.
INFORMATION!
Information for service staff.
ATTENTION!
Read the Instructions for Use first!

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2.2 General Safety Instructions
DANGER!
All brakes acting on the tires do not serve as service brake but are only designed
as parking brake (wheel lock).
DANGER!
To avoid tipping and dangerous situations, familiarize yourself with your new wheelchair
by practicing on level ground first.
DANGER!
Do not use the footplates as a step stool when getting into or out of your wheelchair.
These should be flipped and swung out of the way first, if possible.
DANGER!
Depending on the diameter and setting of the casters as well as the setting of the
wheelchair’s center of gravity, the casters may flutter when driving at higher speeds.
This can lead to blocking of the casters and cause the wheelchair to tip over. The-
refore, ensure that the casters are properly adjusted (see section “Adjustment /
Assembly Instructions”).
Especially on slopes, do not drive without braking and reduce your speed.
DANGER!
Get to know how the wheelchair reacts when the center of gravity shifts; for examp-
le on slopes or inclines or when clearing obstacles such as steps and curbs. This
should be done only with assistance from another person.
Using the anti-tipper is strongly recommended for untrained wheelchair users.
DANGER!
The anti-tipper is designed to prevent the wheelchair from tipping backwards. Under
no condition should the anti-tipper be used as transport wheels, e.g.when wanting
to push the wheelchair while the rear wheels are removed.
DANGER!
Extreme settings (e.g. rear wheels mounted in the foremost position, M4 / M5)
combined with disadvantageous body postures can tip the wheelchair even when
on level ground.
DANGER!
When ascending slopes, lean your upper body far forward.
DANGER!
When reaching for objects in front, to the side or behind the wheelchair, do not lean
out of the wheelchair too far as this will shift the center of gravity and cause the
chair to tilt or tip over.
DANGER!
Use your wheelchair properly. For instance, do not “jump” the chair down from hig-
her surfaces and do not drive against obstacles such as steps and curbs without
braking.

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DANGER!
Do not ascend or descend stairs without the assistance of attendants. Make use of
ramps or elevators whenever available. If wheelchair-friendly access is missing, two
attendants must carry the wheelchair over the obstacle.
If only one attendant is available, he or she must adjust the anti-tipper (if mounted)
such that it does not come in the way of the steps during transport. Failure to observe
this precaution can lead to severe falls. Afterwards, the anti-tipper should be swung
back to its operational position.
DANGER!
Advise attendants to lift your wheelchair only by parts that are firmly attached (e.g.
not at the footrest or the flip-up side panels).
DANGER!
If your wheelchair is equipped with height-adjustable push handles, ensure that the
clamping levers are firmly tightened.
DANGER!
When using lifting platforms, ensure that the anti-tipper is outside the danger-
area.
DANGER!
Engage the wheel locks to prevent the wheelchair from moving on uneven ground or
during transfers (e.g. into a car).
DANGER!
Before starting your wheelchair, check the tires for proper inflation levels. The required
air pressure is printed on the side of the tire. For rear wheels, it should be at least
3.5 bar (350 kPa). The wheel locks are only effective with sufficient air pressure and
proper adjustment (approx. 4 mm distance, subject to technical changes).
DANGER!
For transfemoral amputees, the rear wheels must be shifted backwards.
ATTENTION!
If your seat and back upholstery become worn out or damaged, replace it promptly.
With a new seat upholstery you will automatically receive new lamellar plugs for the
seat tube which you should replace for the previously used, old lamellar plugs.
DANGER!
Use caution near flammables or fire, especially lit cigarettes. The seat and backrest
upholstery might catch fire.
DANGER!
To avoid hand injuries, do not grasp between the rear wheel and the wheel lock
when driving your wheelchair.
DANGER!
The maximum load for modules M1, M2, M3 and M5 is 125 kg.
The maximum load for module M4 is 160 kg and for module M6 90 kg.

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DANGER!
Using your Otto Bock product as a seat for transportation in motor vehicles for
disabled passengers
Whenever possible, users should be transferred to the seats installed in the
motor vehicle for disabled passengers. The corresponding restraint systems
should also be used. Only this can ensure optimal protection of the passengers
in case of an accident.
The modules M1, M2, M3, M5 and M6 are permissible for transporting passengers
in motor vehicles when using Otto Bock safety components and when using
appropriate restraint systems.
For more information, please refer to our instructions for use manual “Using your
Wheelchair/ Mobility Base with Seating Shell or Buggy/Stroller as a Seat for Trans-
portation in Motor Vehicles”, order no. 646D158.
DANGER!
Always make sure that the quick-release axles are correctly set on the rear wheel.
The rear wheel must not be removable without the button of the quick-release axle
being depressed.
DANGER!
Slowing down from high speeds or when descending longer slopes tends to heat
up the hands and fingers, especially if using aluminum push rings.
DANGER!
When using your wheelchair outdoors, wear leather gloves. Gloves provide you with
a better grip and protect your fingers from dirt and hot metal.
DANGER!
The effectiveness of the wheel lock and the overall driving quality are dependent on
adequate air pressure.
Properly inflated rear wheel tires and equal air pressure in both tires considerably
improve the maneuverability of your wheelchair.
DANGER!
Ensure that the tires have sufficient tread depth.
When using your wheelchair in public traffic, you are subjected to public traffic
regulations.
DANGER!
Ensure you are visible in the dark. If possible, wear light-colored clothes or clothing
with reflectors, and ensure that the reflectors installed at the side and the rear of the
wheelchair are clearly visible. We also recommend installing lights.

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3 Delivery / Preparing the Wheelchair for Use
DANGER!
Risk of injury: Do not hold on to other moveable parts than the ones described.
Wheelchairs of the Start series are generally delivered completely assembled and folded.
Three simple steps prepare it for use:
1) When folding or unfolding the wheelchair, hold it only at the indicated positions (Fig. 1, Fig. 3).
2) While standing next to the wheelchair, tip it slightly toward you and press on the edge of the
seat upholstery closest to you. The wheelchair will unfold up to its entire seat width (Fig. 1).
3) Push the footplates down (Fig. 2).
1 2
The overhang of the back upholstery attaches easily to the seat upholstery with a hook-and-loop
closure. We recommend keeping the overhang attached at all times.

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4 Folding – Transport
INFORMATION!
Flip up the footplates. Grab the seat upholstery at the front and the back in the middle
and pull it upwards. The wheelchair then folds into itself (Fig. 3).
INFORMATION!
Once the wheelchair is folded, secure the strap of the folding fixture with the snap
fastener. This will prevent the wheelchair from unfolding unexpectedly (Fig. 3A).
For more manageable transportation, e.g. in cars, the footrests can be swung inwards
or outwards or be entirely removed.
3 3A
INFORMATION!
To move or remove the footrest, pull the lock release assist (Fig. 4) to the rear.
The footrest with footplate can then be swung inwards or outwards or be removed
by pulling it upward.
INFORMATION!
During reassembly, ensure that the footrest locking device has engaged. Transporta-
tion is greatly facilitated by the removable quick-release axles on the rear wheels
(included in the standard version) (Fig. 5).
4 5

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INFORMATION!
Slide four fingers between the spokes near the hub of the rear wheel. Then press
the button of the quick-release axle with your thumb. You can then easily pull off the
rear wheel.
Follow the corresponding procedure when remounting.
INFORMATION!
When remounting, be sure the quick-release axle securely locks into the quick-release
axle housing.
The rear wheel must not be removable when the button is not being pressed!
5 Accessories
The wheelchair is designed as a modular assembly system. This means that certain accesso-
ries can be adapted to your wheelchair. In the following, we will present you a selection of our
variants and accessories which improve the use and comfort of your wheelchair.
5.1. Anti-tipper (Fig. 6)
Prevents the wheelchair from tipping too far backward. Strongly recommended for untrained
wheelchair users as well as when extreme adjustments have been made to the rear wheel.
5.2. Transport wheels (Fig. 7)
With the rear wheels removed, the wheelchair can be used as a rolling base. This allows ma-
neuvering through narrow passage ways (such as bathroom doorways or airplane aisles).
INFORMATION!
Please note that once the rear wheels are removed, the wheel locks can no longer
be activated!
6 7

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5.3. Crutch holder with hook and loop strap (Fig. 8)
5.4. Side panels (ip-up and removable) (Fig. 9)
Available in several models, also with height-adjustable armrests; side panels can be flipped
up or removed for getting into or out of the wheelchair. To flip up the side panel, manipulate the
release lever behind the side panel tube.
8 9
5.5. Plug-on wheel lock lever extension (Fig. 10)
Facilitates use of the wheel lock.
5.6. Drum brakes (Fig. 11)
Allow the attendant to comfortably and safely brake the wheelchair. The rear wheels remain
removable via the quick-release axle system.
10 11

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5.7. Wheel lock for one-handed operation (Fig. 12)
INFORMATION!
Please note that the wheel lock lever extension must always be attached when re-
leasing or engaging the wheel lock.
Recommended especially for hemiplegics. It can be activated either on the right or left side and
ensures the safe locking of both rear wheels with a pull-wire system.
5.8. Tray (Fig. 13)
Serves as a supporting surface during meals, when working or when playing. The clear material
allows visibility of the legs and correction of the sitting posture.
12 13
5.9. Lap belt (Fig. 14)
Prevents the wheelchair user from falling out of the wheelchair.
5.10 Elevating footrest (Fig. 15)
Allows positioning of the leg at different angles. Upon manipulation of the release lever which is
integrated into the legrest bearing the footrest angle can be adjusted in small increments.
14 15

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5.11 Push handles, height-adjustable (Fig. 16)
Can be adjusted vertically to a more comfortable height for the attendant.
5.12 Wheelbase long (Fig. 17)
Makes the wheelchair particularly stable against tipping, increases the turning range.
INFORMATION!
For transfemoral amputees the long wheelbase setting is indispensable.
16 17
5.13 Back upholstery, adaptable (Fig. 18)
5.14 Folding back (Fig. 19)
18 19
5.15 Spoke protectors
Protect the fingers from getting caught in the wheel spokes. Also improve the appearance of
the wheelchair.

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5.16 Amputation legrest (Fig. 20)
5.17 Infusion stand (Fig. 21)
20 21
5.18 The Back (Fig. 22)
Firm back to support positioning (see 647H491 Instructions for Use).
5.19 The Seat (Fig. 23)
Seat base with variable setting possibilities to improve positioning (see 647H450 Instructions
for Use).
22 23

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6 Adjustment / Assembly Instructions
All wheelchair users have expectations regarding wheelchair type, accessories, seating and
handling.
Your Start wheelchair has many options by which it can be customized to your needs and prefe-
rences. We recommend consulting with your dealer or therapist to determine which wheelchair
settings will work best for you.
INFORMATION!
The following tools are required for repair and maintenance:
• Allen wrenches, sizes 4 and 5 mm
• Torx Allen wrenches, sizes x 30
• Open-end wrenches, sizes 19 and 24 mm
• Socket wrenches, sizes 10 and 19 mm
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Tire levers
• Torque wrench
6.1. Adjusting seat height and seat inclination
The higher the rear wheel is attached to the frame, the more the seat inclines downward. This
positions the user deeper and more firmly into the seat. However, rear wheels that are attached
high at the frame also make the wheelchair more prone to tilt backwards. A careful and syn-
chronized height adjustment of both the rear wheels and the casters will allow to adapt the seat
height to the user’s individual requirements.
INFORMATION!
Please note: When the rear wheel position is changed, the angle of the caster axle
in relation to the ground also changes. Ensure that this angle is always approx. 90°
wide (see “Caster wheels”). The wheel lock must be re-adjusted as well (see “Wheel
lock”) .
INFORMATION!
The Start M1 Intro, M2 Effect, M3 Hemi and M6 Junior offer the possibility to change
the vertical position of the rear wheel by shifting the rear wheel adapter along the
frame. Loosen the two screw connections A (Fig. 24) and remove the screws. Shift
the adapter to the desired position and firmly retighten the screws.
INFORMATION!
Make sure to firmly retighten all screws and nuts after making adjustments. The pro-
per torque for the screw connection of the rear wheel adapter is 8 Nm. The proper
torque for the screw connection of the fitting is 50 Nm.
For Start M4 XXL and M5 Comfort: Loosen the nut A (Fig. 25) of the quick-release
axle housing on the inside of the frame and remount the axle housing at the desired
position. The proper torque is 50 Nm. The distance between rear wheel and side
panel can be continuously adjusted by adjusting the counter nut on the outer side
of the frame.

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24 25
A
B
B
A
6.2 Changing the wheelbase
Shifting the rear wheel backwards lengthens the wheelbase and thus provides for greater sta-
bility of the wheelchair. Shifting the rear wheel forwards (only for advanced wheelchair drivers!)
relieves the load on the casters. This increases the maneuverability of the wheelchair. The caster
wheels can then also be lifted more easily to clear obstacles such as curbs or steps.
DANGER!
Please note: If the rear wheels are in a more forward position and the user’s body is
not appropriately positioned, the user may tip backward - even on level ground!
DANGER!
For untrained wheelchair users and when there are extreme adjustments to the rear
wheel, an anti-tipper is strongly recommended!
DANGER!
For transfemoral amputees it is essential to shift the rear wheels backwards!
INFORMATION!
For Start M1 Intro, M2 Effect, M3 Hemi and M6 Junior: Loosen the screws A of the
rear wheel adapter (Fig. 24) at the frame and mount the rear wheel adapter (with
sides reversed) in the desired position. The distance between rear wheel and side
panel can be continuously adjusted by adjusting the counter nut on the outer side
of the frame.
INFORMATION!
Make sure to firmly retighten all screws and nuts after making adjustments. The
proper torque of the screw connection of the rear wheel adapter is 8 Nm.
INFORMATION!
For Start M4 XXL and M5 Comfort: Loosen and remove the 4 screw connections B
(Fig. 25) which connect the rear wheel adapter to the frame. The adapter can then
be shifted to the desired position on the frame tube and the plastic adapter.

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When changing the adjustments originally made in the factory, two other component groups of
the wheelchair must be readjusted, refer to sections 6.3 and 6.4.
6.3 Caster wheels
Adjusting the caster wheel journal angle (Fig. 26)
After the rear wheels have been mounted in the appropriate position, the caster wheel journal
angle must be readjusted.
The threaded axle should be as horizontal as possible in relation to the ground to ensure optimal
driving behavior of the wheelchair. The caster adapter allows for continuous angle adjustment.
INFORMATION!
Loosen the two screws A between caster adapter and frame (Fig. 26).
Now you can move the caster adapter along the frame tube. The level (included
in delivery) will help you position the threaded axle as vertically to the ground as
possible.
INFORMATION!
Make sure to firmly retighten all oval head screws. The proper torque is 8 Nm
(Fig. 26).
26
A

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6.4 Wheel lock
To change the position of the rear wheels, first loosen the attachment screws of the clamping
adapters of the wheel lock and push the wheel lock forward. Then reposition the rear wheels. The
wheel lock should then be remounted such that the distance between the tires and wheel lock
bolts is max. 4 mm when the wheel lock is not activated (subject to technical changes) (Fig. 27).
Check the tire air pressure and the effectiveness of the locking devices regularly. The proper
air pressure is indicated on the side wall of the tire. It should be at least 3.5 bar (350 kPa). To
ensure sufficient braking effect, use only original rear wheels with an approved radial excursion
of maximally ± 1 mm.
INFORMATION!
Make sure to firmly retighten all screws and nuts after making adjustments!
INFORMATION!
Tighten the wheel lock attachment with a torque of 10 Nm.
27
4mm

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6.5 Adjusting the brake force for rear wheel with drum brake
The brake force is adjusted at the adjustment screw to achieve optimal braking effect. The brake
force is increased by turning the screw counter-clockwise and decreased by turning the screw
clockwise.
INFORMATION!
Turn the adjustment screw counter-clockwise until frictional noise occurs at the tur-
ning wheel. Then tighten the adjustment screw until the frictional noise disappears.
The wheel should run freely.
After finishing the adjustment, fasten the adjustment screw by tightening the counter nut.
INFORMATION!
Ensure that the brake force of both rear wheels is adjusted equally.
Also make sure that the drum brake engages with sufficient force only when the
manual brake lever is set to the second ratchet position.
6.6 Adjusting the angle of the footplate (Fig. 28)
INFORMATION!
Prior to adjusting the footplate angle, loosen the screw connections A as indicated
in the figure.
Then set the footplate to the desired angles and tighten the loosened screw connec-
tions with a torque of 6 Nm.

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6.7 Adjusting the height of the footrest (Fig. 29)
INFORMATION!
By loosening the set screw, the footplate can be adapted to your lower leg length
and to the thickness of your seat cushion.
INFORMATION!
Make sure when adjusting the footrest height, that the footrest bar is slid into the
swivel segment at least 40 mm. A marking on the footrest bar indicates how far the
bar should be slid in.
INFORMATION!
After having made adjustments, retighten the set screw to a torque of 6 Nm.
29
6.8. Adjusting the angle of the elevating footrest (Fig. 30)
Turn the release lever until it hits the stop. While propping up the footrest bar, set the desired
angle. Then carefully let the release lever turn back. At the next free position, the footrest will
snap into place.
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