SOMA SM-250.5TL User manual

User manual
SOMA 215
(SM-250.5/ SM-250.5TL)

GENERAL WARNING
⚫DO maintain your chair well, in particular check the tyre (tire) pressure since
this affects the efficiency of the brakes.
⚫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 curbs or turning on slopes.
⚫DO avoid steep or uneven surfaces that may cause the chair to tip over.
⚫DO avoid soft surfaces because the casters 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 chair 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 it 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 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 allow any unconscious patient to use the wheelchair.

⚫DO NOT use other transport to pull the wheelchair.
⚫DO NOT do "wheelies", since you my fall or tip over backwards and suffer a
severe injury.
⚫DO NOT sit in the wheelchair within a moving vehicle unless it has been
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 back joint folded to against tipping over
backwards. It is only for folding and storage purpose.
⚫DO NOT hang anything on the back joint that could cause the backrest
folding suddenly and may cause injury.
YOU AND YOUR SOMA SERVICE PROVIDER
⚫No tools are required for assembly. Your wheelchair should be assembled
by your authorized SOMA dealer. Your authorized SOMA 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 SOMA service provider. Your SOMA 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 SOMA.
Use of parts that are not authorized by SOMA 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 dealership 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 owner's manual must be performed by a qualified
technician. They also have the service manual with a complete list of
maintenance required to keep your SOMA wheelchair in top performance.
Check the warranty section of this owner's manual to find out what SOMA
guarantees and what maintenance service and parts that are not covered by
the warranty.
⚫SOMA 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 SOMA dealer for service. If all else fails, contact
SOMA 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.
⚫When using the wheelchair, ALWAYS follow the Highway Code or your local
traffic regulations when outdoors and the guidelines written in this manual.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PREFACE ...............................................................................................................................................1
2. SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................................2
2.1 Doorways.......................................................................................................................................2
2.2 Leaning ..........................................................................................................................................2
2.3 Inclines ...........................................................................................................................................2
2.4 Kerb (Curbs)..................................................................................................................................3
2.5 Stairs...............................................................................................................................................3
2.6 Streets ............................................................................................................................................4
2.7 General...........................................................................................................................................4
2.8 Upholstery.....................................................................................................................................4
2.9 Maximum User Weight Limit....................................................................................................5
2.10 Avoid General Misuse ..............................................................................................................5
2.11 Labeling.......................................................................................................................................6
3. INTENDED USE & PARTS..................................................................................................................7
3.1 Intended Use ................................................................................................................................7
3.2 Parts Description..........................................................................................................................7
4. OPERATION.........................................................................................................................................9
4.1 Unfolding.......................................................................................................................................9
4.2 Folding.........................................................................................................................................10
4.3 Important DOs and DON'Ts....................................................................................................10
4.4 Footplate Height........................................................................................................................11
4.5 How to Use the Tipping Lever ................................................................................................11
4.6 Footplate Installation and Adjustment.................................................................................11
4.7 Transporting and Storing ........................................................................................................12
4.8 Transferring In............................................................................................................................12
4.9 Transferring Out.........................................................................................................................13
4.10 Attendant Pushing and Self-propelled ..............................................................................14
4.11 Tilting by the Attendant.........................................................................................................15
4.12 Tilting by the User ...................................................................................................................16
4.13 Going Down Curbs .................................................................................................................16
4.14 Going Down Curbs Forwards With an Attendant............................................................16
4.15 Going Down Curbs Backwards With an Attendant .........................................................17

4.16 Going Up Curbs.......................................................................................................................17
4.17 Going Up Curbs Forwards With an Attendant..................................................................17
4.18 Going Up Curbs Backwards With an Attendant...............................................................17
4.19 Rear Wheel Disassembly (only applicable for SM-250.5TL)..........................................17
4.20 Rear Wheel Assembly (only applicable for SM-250.5TL) ...............................................18
4.21 Mounting the Pelvic Belt .......................................................................................................18
4.22 How to Use and Adjust the Pelvic Belt ...............................................................................19
5. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE..............................................................................................20
5.1 Daily Check..................................................................................................................................20
5.2 Regular Maintenance Record.................................................................................................21
6. OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES.......................................................................................................23
7. TROUBLESHOOTING.......................................................................................................................24
8. SPECIFICATIONS...............................................................................................................................25
9. CLEANING & RECYCLING...............................................................................................................29
9.1 Cleaning.......................................................................................................................................29
9.2 Frame............................................................................................................................................29
9.3 Upholstery...................................................................................................................................29
9.4 Post-Consumer Recycling.......................................................................................................29
10. WARRANTY.....................................................................................................................................30
10.1 Serial Number..........................................................................................................................30
10.2 Contents and Duration of Warranty ...................................................................................30
10.3 The Claims from This Warranty Shall Not Arise for The Following Reasons..............30
10.4 The manufacturer is Not Responsible for The Following Costs....................................31
10.5 The Responsibilities of the User...........................................................................................31
10.6 The Responsibilities of the Dealer.......................................................................................31
10.7 Transfer of Warranty Rights..................................................................................................32

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1. PREFACE
Please carefully read this owner's manual before using the wheelchair. Improper use of
the wheelchair could result in harm or injury.
1.1 This owner's manual includes operation instructions for the aspects of the
wheelchair, unfolding/folding instructions and instructions on how to deal
with possible accidents.
1.2 This owner's manual is written for SOMA wheelchair: SOMA 215 series.
1.3 The symbols used in this owner's 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.
1.4 This owner's manual includes the repair and maintenance chart as well as
the warranty.
1.5 If someone else uses the wheelchair, make sure that you give him or her this
owner's manual for his or her reference.
1.6 As designs change, some illustrations and pictures in this owner's manual
may not correspond to the wheelchair that you purchased. We reserve
the right to make design modifications without further notice.

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2. SAFETY
2.1 Doorways
The safest way to operate the chair is on level floors that are free of obstacles.
Whenever possible use a ramp to enter or exit a facility. Keeping your hands on the
push rims will allow you to maintain maximum balance. Do not try to force yourself
over an obstruction by propulsion and never use the sides of a doorway to pull
yourself through a passageway.
2.2 Leaning
Do not lean over the side of your wheelchair since such an action may cause you to
lose balance and fall. (See Figure 2.1)
Figure 2.1
Figure 2.2
Figure 2.3
2.3 Inclines
2.3.1 Never turn while driving on a hill due to the danger of tipping.
2.3.2 When assisting, go straight up a slope. If user needs to go down midway, walk
backwards until user is on level ground. (See Figures 2.2 and 2.3)
2.3.3 Avoid stopping on an incline; it can potentially cause you to lose control of the
chair.
2.3.4 Do not use the brakes to slow down or stop the wheelchair; this could cause it to
seize up, causing you to lose control or fall out of the chair.
2.3.5 Whenever possible, utilize help from an assistant/attendant while negotiating
inclines.

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2.4 Kerb (Curbs)
2.4.1 Whenever possible get help from an assistant/attendant (if you have assistance
make sure that your chair is equipped with push handles).
2.4.2 Avoid hard impacts when descending a curb. A hard impact could adversely affect
the chair.
2.4.3 Never try to scale or descend curbs that exceed a normal height (30-50mm).
2.4.4 Always be careful when climbing curbs and never move up or down a curb in
reverse without an assistant.
2.5 Stairs
2.5.1 Never go down steps forwards.
2.5.2 Please note: avoid flights of steps particularly if no extra help is available. Use
ramps or lifts wherever possible.
2.5.3 Always use two or more assistants. Each capable of carrying at least half of the
combined weight of the person and the wheelchair. 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 Figure 2.4)
2.5.4 Assistants should straighten their legs to lift the chair. Carefully carry it up or down
steps; be aware of how the assistant place their feet - do not cross them and trip
themselves up.
2.5.5 Never use an escalator for transport, use an elevator.
CAUTION:
●Do not attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts. Lifting
by means of any removable (detachable) parts of wheelchair may result in injury
to the user and/or assistant or damage to the wheelchair.
●ALL LIFTING SHOULD BE DONE WITH A STRAIGHT BACK.

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Figure 2.4
Figure 2.5
2.6 Streets
2.6.1 Always use extreme caution when crossing streets. Reflective tape on the chair
and/or your clothing will make you more visible to drivers.
2.6.2 Avoid potholes and rough terrain that might cause the casters to be stuck. (See
Figure 2.5)
2.7 General
2.7.1 The expected service life of the product is two 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.
2.7.2 Always make sure BOTH brakes are applied before getting in or out of the chair.
2.7.3 Never stand on the footplates when getting in or out of the chair.
2.7.4 Never carry more than one passenger. This wheelchair is limited to one user.
2.7.5 Be sure that your clothing doesn't get tangled with the wheels.
2.7.6 When the user is operating the wheelchair using the pushrims, please push the
wheelchair gently. DO NOT apply a sudden huge force on the pushrims. It could
cause the chair to tip over. Please refer to the figure below for the best grip points
for using the pushrims.
2.8 Upholstery
2.8.1 When cleaning the upholstery, use warm water and a mild soap.
2.8.2 Upholstery cleaner/foam can also be used, but avoid other cleaning solvents.

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2.9 Maximum User Weight Limit
Refer to "Maximum User Weight" in Section 8. SPECIFICATIONS. Loads exceeding
maximum capacity can damage your wheelchair and cause malfunctions yielding a
safety hazard. The warranty does not cover damage caused by improper operation of
the wheelchair.
2.10 Avoid General Misuse
2.10.1 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 you are outdoors and the guidelines
written in this owner's manual.
2.10.2 Do not let children stand or play on the wheelchair.

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

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3. INTENDED USE & PARTS
3.1 Intended Use
3.1.1 The SOMA 215 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 SOMA 215 series are suitable for users up to 100 kg in weight. Hand brakes are
provided for both rear wheels.
3.1.3 The casters have PVC tyres (tires) for greater durability.
3.1.4 SM-250.5 and SM-250.5TL can be fitted with different dimension of rear wheels.
Please see 8. Specifications for the details.
3.2 Parts Description
3.2.1 SOMA 215 Series with 14" Rear Wheels
1. Push Handle
2. Attendant Brake
3. Parking Brake
4. Rear Wheel
5. Cross Frame(Cross Bar)
6. Caster
7. Backrest Upholstery
8. Armrest
9. Side Panel
10. Seat Upholstery
11. Tipping Lever
12. Footrest
13. Heel Loop
14. Footplate

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3.2.2 SOMA 215 Series with 20" or 22" Rear Wheels
1. Push Handle
2. Attendant Brake
3. Parking Brake
4. Rear Wheel (Fixed or Quick Release)*
5. Cross Frame(Cross Bar)
6. Caster
7. Backrest Upholstery
8. Armrest
9. Side Panel
10. Seat Upholstery
11. Tipping Lever
12. Footrest
13. Heel Loop
14. Footplate
*Remark: Quick release rear wheels can only be mounted to SM-250.5TL.

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4. OPERATION
4.1 Unfolding
4.1.1 Unfold the push handle. (See Figure 4.1)
4.1.2 Holding the armrests, pull outwards. (See Figure 4.2)
4.1.3 Pointing your fingers inward with the palm of your hand on the frame, push down
until the seat is fully lowered. Make sure the frame is firmly seated in its holder.
(See Figure 4.3)
4.1.4 Lift the footrests upward, swing them towards the middle and push them down
until they are fully locked. (See Figure 4.3.1 and Figure 4.3.2)
4.1.5 Swing the footplates down. (See Figure 4.3.3)
4.1.6 Ready for action!
Alternatively, you can stand at the side of the chair and complete step 1 by pulling the
nearest armrest towards you and pushing the other one away.
Figure 4.1
Figure 4.2
Figure 4.3
Figure 4.3.1
Figure 4.3.2
Figure 4.3.3
CAUTION:
●When completing step 2, never put your fingers around the
sides or under the chair as they can be trapped between the
seat and the frame. (See Figure 4.5)
Figure 4.5

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4.2 Folding
4.2.1 Flip up the footplates. (See Figure 4.6)
4.2.2 Lift the footrests upward, swing them outward to the side and push them down
until they are fully locked. (See Figure 4.6.1 and Figure 4.6.2)
4.2.3 Pull up on the seat upholstery by holding it in the center of its front and back edge.
(See Figure 4.7)
4.2.4 Press the two release levers on the backrest frame (push handle tubes) to fold the
backrest down for compact storage and easy transport. (See Figure 4.8)
4.2.5 Folding is now completed.
Figure 4.6
Figure 4.6.1
Figure 4.6.2
Figure 4.7
Figure 4.8
CAUTION:
●Be careful not to get your fingers caught when folding the wheelchair.
4.3 Important DOs and DON'Ts
4.3.1 DO: Keep axles clean and lubricated with light oil or maintenance spray.
4.3.2 DO: Maintain correct tyre (tire) pressure if using pneumatic tyres (tires).
4.3.3 DO NOT: Try to remove the wheels while the wheelchair is occupied even when
using anti-tippers.

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4.4 Footplate Height
4.4.1 To adjust footplate height use the tool provided to loosen the bolt at the bottom
of the footrest arm.
4.4.2 Adjust to required height and re-tighten. (See Figure 4.11)
Figure 4.11
Figure 4.12
SUGGESTION:
●Make sure that the footplate height is adjusted properly according to the user's calf
length to reduce pressure on the body.
●The distance between the footplates and the ground must be more than 5 cm. (See
Figure 4.12)
4.5 How to Use the Tipping Lever
4.5.1 Unfold the tipping lever with foot slightly. (See Figure 4.13).
4.5.2 Step the tipping lever downward with foot and hold both of the push handles and
push them downward by two hands simultaneously to lift the caster to overcome
the obstacle. (See Figure 4.14).
4.5.3 The tipping lever can be folded with foot if you do not use it. (See Figure 4.15).
Figure 4.13
Figure 4.14
Figure 4.15
Figure 4.16
4.6 Footplate Installation and Adjustment
Install footplate：
4.6.1 Loose screws by using 5 mm Allen key which bundled in the tool box and adjust
the length to an appropriate position to fit user's leg-length. (Figure 4-16).

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4.7 Transporting and Storing
Make sure the wheelchair is folded when it is stored.
SUGGESTION:
●Please store the wheelchair in a location where it is out of direct sunlight, rain, and
dew. For more details, consult your SOMA dealer.
WARNING:
●Do not put anything on the wheelchair while it is in
storage. Placing items on a wheelchair for a long period of
time can cause damage and is not covered by warranty.
(See the picture at the right.)
WARNING:
●As of this date, SOMA 215 (SM-250.5/ SM-250.5TL) can NOT be used as seats in
any vehicles. That is, we recommend that users are NOT transported in any vehicle
while seated in the wheelchair. In the case of accident or a sudden stop, the user or
passengers may be at risk of getting injury. The suggested solution is to transfer
the user from the wheelchair into a vehicle seat and to securely stow the
wheelchair in a separate compartment.
4.8 Transferring In
4.8.1 Engage both hand brakes.
4.8.2 Swing the footplates up. Swing the footplates up. Lift the footrests upward, swing
them outward to the side and push them down until they are fully locked. (See
Figure 4.6.1 and Figure 4.6.2)
4.8.3 The user lowers himself/ herself into the seat using the armrests for support.
4.8.4 Lift the footrests upward, swing them towards the middle and push them down
until they are fully locked. Turn the footplates back down, so that the user can
place his feet on them. Ensure that the heels rest against the heel supports to
prevent contact with the casters.

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4.8.5 Release both hand brakes.
CAUTION:
●Always ensure that the front casters are in line with the rear wheels and pointing
forwards and that the back of the chair is secure either against a wall or firmly held
by an attendant.
●Always ensure that the front casters are in line with the rear wheels and pointing
forwards and that the back of the chair is secure either against a wall or firmly held
by an attendant.
CAUTION:
●When you sit on the wheelchair, fasten the pelvic belt. Please see Section 4.21 for
further details regarding the pelvic belt.
4.9 Transferring Out
4.9.1 Make sure that the chair is near the place you are transferring to.
4.9.2 Back the chair sufficiently to ensure that the casters are pointing forward, i.e. in line
with the rear wheels and usually with the caster forks pointing forward. Ensure
that, where possible, the rear of the chair is against a wall or, if not, it must be
firmly held by an attendant.
4.9.3 Engage both hand brakes.
4.9.4 Turn the footplates up. Lift the footrests upward, swing them outward to the side
and push them down until they are fully locked. (See Figure 4.6.1 and Figure 4.6.2)
4.9.5 Slide forwards on the seat.
4.9.6 Place one foot firmly on the ground with the knee at a right angle and the other
foot slightly apart and further back.
4.9.7 Place your hands on the front of the armrests and moving your weight forward,
bring your head and shoulders up over your knees as you push yourself up.
CAUTION:
●Never stand on the footplates when getting into (or out of) the chair.
(See Figure 4.13)
●When getting in and out of the wheelchair please use the hand brakes. The hand