Veldink4kids Kiddo Up Special Wheelchairs User Manual

Veldink4kids Kiddo Up Special Wheelchairs

Foreword

• The Kiddo Up wheelchair was built specifically to meet the requirements and wishes of future users following extensive adaptations. It is custom-made. Numerous options and accessories are available. This enables a precise, customised fit. The wheelchair is easy to adjust and adapt. As a rule, the wheelchair can grow with the user starting from the delivered size.
• The manufacturer recommends checking the product settings regularly to ensure optimal fitting over the long term. In the case of children and adolescents in particular, a six-monthly review is recommended.
• The Kiddo Up is manufactured in accordance with the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) 2017/745.
• The wheelchair has been tested and approved for the safe transportation of children in motor vehicles according to ISO 7176-19 and tested with positive results according to the applicable requirements of the European wheelchair standards EN 12182 and EN 12183.
• Report any serious incident related to the product, in particular any deterioration of health, to the manufacturer and the competent authority in your country.
• New information regarding product safety and product recalls as well as the declaration of conformity can be obtained from the manufacturer’s service department.
• You can request this document as a PDF file from the manufacturer’s service department. The PDF file can also be displayed in a larger size.
• Veldink4kids is confident that the product will meet your expectations and hopes you enjoy using it.

Intended use

The safe use of the product can be ensured only if it is used as intended in accordance with the information contained in these instructions for use. The user is ultimately responsible for accident-free operation.

Indications for use

• The wheelchair is intended for everyday indoor and outdoor transportation, by the user or an attendant, of people with temporary or permanent limitations of the ability to walk, inability to walk or difficulty standing up.
• The wheelchair is suitable for users with intact skin whose anatomy (such as body dimensions, weight) permits the intended use of the product.
• The maximum user weight is 50 kg.
• The wheelchair may be used only with the options listed on the product order form.
• Veldink4kids assumes no liability for combinations with medical devices and/or accessories from other manufacturers not included in the modular system.
• Combinations based on a combination agreement, for example, that have been evaluated for effectiveness and safety are an exception to this.

Indications
Minor to pronounced or complete restrictions of mobility

Contraindications

1. Absolute contraindications
   None known

2. Relative contraindications
   Failure to meet physical or mental requirements

Safety provisions

Explanation of warning symbols

• Caution: Warning regarding possible risks of accident or injury.
• Warning: Warning regarding possible serious risks of accident or injury.

Safety notices

• Please read these instructions for use carefully before putting the product into use. All users and/or their attendants must be instructed in the use of the product by qualified
• personnel. In particular, users and/or attendants must be informed of the residual risks with the aid of the safety notices in these instructions for use.
• Failure to follow the safety provisions, instructions, warnings and advice may adversely affect the functionality of the product and result in physical injury to the user or damage to the product or the environment.

Warning

• The Kiddo Up has been tested and approved for the safe transportation of children in motor vehicles according to ISO 7176-19.
• If possible, we recommend using a properly approved seat in the vehicle during transport and storing the product securely in the vehicle’s cargo compartment.
• Secure the seat with passenger in a transport vehicle with an approved 4-point restraint system. The optional seat belt is not a safety belt.
• Also use an approved 3-point safety belt for safe transportation of the user (in the forward-facing position).
• If you need to sit in the wheelchair for extended periods of time, you should regularly change your sitting position, move around or try to stand up briefly. Check that there are no seams, folds or other irregular pressure points on the back support and seat. This helps prevent pressure sores (decubitus).
• Check your skin for intactness before and during use of the product. If skin damage or other problems occur during use, stop using the product. Consult the qualified personnel.
• Never reach too far out of the product as you may fall over.
• Drive slowly when crossing obstacles (e.g. steps, curbs) and negotiating upward or downward slopes and inclines.
• Never cross obstacles at an angle. Always approach obstacles head on (at an angle of 90°). Lift the caster wheels before crossing obstacles.
• Avoid collisions with obstacles and dropping off curbs/ledges.
• Avoid driving on unpaved ground.
• Cross railway systems and railway tracks only in the designated areas. Negotiate level crossings so the caster wheels of the product cannot get caught in the gap between the rail and the road surface.
• Speeds above 5 km/h can be dangerous if you do not have enough practice.
• Never drive at too high a speed around a bend or make quick, sharp swerves. You could fall over.
• Do not cross over obstacles unless you are sure you can perform the manoeuvre safely.
• Attaching loads (e.g. backpacks) can adversely affect stability. Therefore, suspending additional loads on the product is not permitted.
• Use antitamper supports unless you are an experienced wheelchair user.
• Never lift the product by its moving or removable components. Only lift the product by firmly mounted components.
• If your wheelchair is equipped with height-adjustable push handles, ensure that the clamping levers are always firmly tightened.
• The seat and back support upholstery as well as seat cushions, padding and covers comply with the normative requirements for flame resistance. However, they may still ignite if fire is handled improperly or negligently. Keep away from all ignition sources.
• The upholstery and the frame can become very hot during prolonged exposure to sunlight. Do not expose the product to any extreme temperatures (e.g. direct sunlight, sauna, extreme cold). Do not leave the product in the immediate vicinity of heaters.
• When negotiating an incline, the centre of gravity shifts to the rear and the product tilts more easily.
• When ascending slopes or ramps and when crossing obstacles on upward slopes, always lean your upper body far forward. If users cannot lean their body forward, attend-ants must secure the rear.
• When driving down a slope, the centre of gravity shifts forward and the user can fall forward out of the product more easily.
• Do not reach into the spokes of the rotating drive wheel.
• Take care not to pinch parts of your body at the wheel lock lever or between the side or frame parts.
• Do not reach between the drive wheel and wheel lock or drive wheel and side panel when driving the product.
• Never change the design of the product.
• The product is marked with labels, safety symbols and instructions. They must not be covered or removed. They must remain in place and be clearly legible throughout the lifetime of the product.
• Before using the product, verify that all components of the product are properly assembled and tightened.
• Check the product for safety and functionality after changing the settings. In case of problems with the settings, please contact the qualified personnel who adjusted your product.
• Keep packaging materials out of the reach of children.
• Note that the product includes small parts that can be loosened and removed without tools. Ensure that small children, for example, do not swallow them.
• Using the product beyond the specified expected lifetime leads to increased residual risk. Observe the specified lifetime.
• Ensure that examinations and treatments are carried out exclusively under the prescribed conditions in order to avoid impairment of the results of the examination or the effectiveness of treatment due to interactions between the product and the equipment being used.
• When using public transit, always observe the currently applicable legal requirements and the safety notices of the public transit operator. Use the permanently installed seats in the vehicle. If you need to use the product as a seat, please use the designated wheelchair spaces and safety securing equipment provided. Always ensure that you are held in place securely.
• Incorrect application of the belt or positioning aid can lead to strangulation and suffocation. Follow the instructions for proper application so that the user cannot slip into a position that would endanger them. Note that the user’s back must be up against the back support pad when securing the belt/positioning aid and during use of the product.

Caution

• When manoeuvring in confined spaces, make sure you do not get stuck. If you get stuck, try to drive the same way in the opposite direction. Make sure there is help around.
• The product has protruding components that could cause injuries or damage in the event of collision. Avoid collisions for this reason.
• With a seat width of more than 420 mm and a wheel camber of 7°, there may be problems with the passage width.
• Always have attendants help you negotiate steps and other obstacles. Use equipment (e.g. ramps or lifts). If such equipment is not available, have 2 helpers carry you over the obstacle.
• Do not exceed the max. load (see nameplate and section 6 Technical data).
• Please note that certain accessories and add-on components will reduce the remaining load capacity.
• The product may be used by only one person at a time.
• As a wheelchair user, you are particularly at risk in road traffic. Make sure you are always seen by other road users. Observe the applicable traffic rules. Wear bright clothing or clothing with reflectors.
• Install active lighting on your product. Ensure that the reflectors on the product are clearly visible.
• If the product is stored for an extended period of time, this must be done in a dry room. The checklist in section 13 must be followed when using the product again.
• Make sure that the push bar, back support height, forearm supports, lower leg length and, if applicable, the head support are set to the correct height.
• Maintain a minimum distance of 5 cm between the foot plate and the ground.
• Wear wheelchair gloves when driving at high speeds in order to protect yourself against burns while braking with handrims.
• If any faults, defects or other hazards that could lead to personal injury are detected, the product must be taken out of service immediately. This includes uncontrolled movements as well as unexpected or previously not noted sounds or odours that deviate significantly from the state of the product at the time of delivery.

Additional information

• Veldink4kids is not liable for damage or injuries caused by negligence or failure to observe safety notices. Depending on the special circumstances or the accessories used, additional safety notices may be required.
• Ensure that the product is always in good condition.
• Practise on level, open ground first.
• With the support of a helper, learn how the product reacts to changes in centre of gravity, e.g. on downward or upward slopes, inclines or when overcoming obstacles.
• The maximum tyre pressure for the drive wheels is 6 bar (87 PSI). If this is exceeded, the tyre can run off the rim. The information regarding the tyre pressure on the tyre may differ from the maximum tyre pressure recommended by Veldink4kids. A tyre pressure of 6 bar results in reduced wear and tear and improved driving comfort.
• You can repair a flat tyre yourself or have it repaired in your local bicycle shop or by your distributor. After repair, the tyre can be inflated by connecting the bicycle pump to the valve nipple and pumping it.
• Check the dimensions and adjust them to the optimum values as described in these instructions for use.
• In case of problems with the settings, please contact the qualified personnel who adjusted your product.
• Only use original parts and accessories from Veldink4kids. These are tested and safe.

Explanation of symbols
On the following page you will find the explanations and positions of the stickers used with this product.

1. CE marking
2. WARNING! Read the instructions for use before using the product. Observe important safety-related information (e.g. warnings, precautions).
3. Max. load based on the serial number
4. Manufacturer information/address
5. Category (model name)
6. Data matrix of the Unique Device Identifier
7. Symbol for medical device
8. Unique Device Identifier (UDI)
9. (01) = fixed number sequence per “serial number category”
10. (11) = date of manufacture: YYMMDD
11. (21) = serial number
12. 9     Serial number
13. 10  Year of manufacture

| This sticker indicates the product type.
| The product has not been approved by the manufacturer for use as a seat in vehicles for transporting persons with reduced mobility 1).
| ISO 7176-19 tested, the product has been approved by the manufacturer for use as a seat in vehicles for transporting persons with reduced mobility 1).
|

• Fixation point to attach the product in vehicles for transporting persons with reduced mobility
• The positions of the four attachment points on the product are marked with this hook symbol.

Only one of the two stickers will be displayed on the product.

Positioning of the stickers

If a sticker on the Kiddo Up is unusable or no longer legible, you can request a new sticker at info@veldink4kids.com . The affixed CE marking can also be replaced via the customer file.

Side effects

• The following side effects may occur during use of the product:
  • Neck, muscle and joint pain
  • Circulatory disorders, risk of pressure sores
• Contact a doctor or therapist in case of problems.

Warranty

• Veldink4kids products are assembled with passion and care and carefully checked before they leave the factory. Should a product fail to meet your expectations, you can contact the distributor from whom you purchased the product.
• The expected lifetime of the Kiddo Up is 5 years. Veldink4kids provides a 5-year warranty against frame breakage on its Kiddo wheelchairs. Wear and tear parts such as upholstery, tyres, paint-work, etc. are excluded from the warranty/statutory rights (unless these are manufacturing defects that are reported to the manufacturer within 3 months of delivery).

Conditions

• Repairs and/or replacement of spare parts must be carried out by a distributor authorized by Veldink4kids.
• The warranty/statutory rights are only valid if, in the event of a complaint, the distributor receives information about the nature of the problem and the circumstances under which the problem occurred.
• For repair or replacement, it is necessary to provide the manufacturer with the serial number together with the correct specifications.
• Within the warranty/statutory rights period, the part in question will be repaired or replaced free of charge.
• The warranty/statutory rights do not apply if the cause of the damage is due to any of the following:
  • If the product is not maintained according to the instructions provided.
  • Non-use of original parts supplied by the manufacturer. These are available from stock and can be ordered from the manufacturer.
  • Damage due to improper handling, negligence or accident.
  • Changes and/or adjustments to the product originally supplied by the factory made by third parties without the express written consent of the manufacturer.
• The product described in the instructions for use is not necessarily the version that was delivered. The deviations are due to individual requests and/or changes. However, the instructions are generally valid for any version.
• The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes to the design, dimensions, etc. without prior notice in order to improve the product.

Important:

• The information in these instructions for use refers to the standard version of the product. Veld-ink4kids assumes no liability for damage resulting from changes or modifications to the product after the date of first sale.
• Furthermore, Veldink4kids cannot be held responsible for damage caused by the work of third parties.

Important:
The Kiddo Up is delivered without spare parts. Spare parts can be ordered from Veldink4kids and installed by Veldink4kids distributors.

Important :
Veldink4kids may contact you via its contact database in case of unforeseen events. All Veld-ink4kids customers are included in this telephone contact database. You will be notified in the event of important information relating to the warranty or safety.

Technical data

The following specifications apply to the Kiddo Up:

• *: The seat width can be adjusted in increments of 2 cm.
• **: The seat heights have been measured including an anatomical seat cushion. The thickness of the seat cushion at the back is 50 mm.
• ***: Values may be higher than those recommended in Annex A.1.1 of EN 12183 and Annex M of the “Technical specifications for interoperability relating to accessibility for persons with reduced mobility” (TSI PRM). Therefore, consider adverse effects on passing doors, escape routes and during transport.

Product overview

The figure below shows the Kiddo Up.

1. Caster wheel
2. Frame
3. Leg support
4. Braking system
5. Seat cushion
6. Back support pad
7. Anti-tipper
8. Drive wheel with aluminium handrim
9. Tilt mechanism

Handing over the product
The following steps must be performed for the safe handover of the product:

• A sitting test has to be conducted with the user of the product. Pay special attention to proper positioning according to medical considerations.
• The user and any attendants must be instructed in the safe use of the product by qualified personnel. In particular, the enclosed instructions for use are to be used.
• The instructions for use must be given to the user/attendant when handing over the product.
• Depending on equipment: The instructions for use supplied with accessories are to be handed over as well.

Settings

• Based on the instructions, the user can adapt the product to changes in conditions without consulting the manufacturer.
• Since everyone is built differently and there are large differences in the degree and extent of disability, the product was designed to be adapted to the person in question.
• The many adjustment possibilities offered by a wheelchair of this kind provide numerous advantages when it comes to optimizing’s the sitting posture and position.
• Observe the following instructions for all settings:
• Warning: Incorrect adjustment may reduce sitting comfort and impair the intended use of the product! In case of problems with the settings, please contact the qualified personnel who adjusted your product.
• The product was preadjusted at delivery. However, you may need to adjust it again if you grow in height or if required for medical reasons. Practical experience also indicates that users often wish to adjust the settings slightly.
• The following step-by-step guide is used to achieve the correct adjustment of the product in the most logical and effective way. The steps must be completed correctly in order to adapt the product correctly to the user. Each adjustment is dealt with separately. In practice, each setting has a greater or lesser impact on sitting posture and/or sitting balance.
• Therefore, check after each adjustment whether these factors have been affected and need to be corrected.
• The description of the different settings refers to the “hand-tightening” of screws and nuts. This refers to a tightening torque of 10 Nm.

Seat depth, back support height and back support angle

Adjusting the seat depth

• The seat depth corresponds to the thigh length and is measured from the front edge of the seat to the back support.
• In connection with sitting stability, skewed sitting or swivelling of the legs, it is important that there is sufficient support over the entire seat depth. The seat depth can be adjusted by 45 mm from the initial size.

Option 1

1. Loosen the four hexagon socket screws (see Figure 4, item 1) slightly until the seat can be pushed forward or back.
2. After making the adjustment, hand-tighten the four hexagon socket screws.

Option 2
The seat depth can also be adjusted by sliding the entire seat forward or back using the hole pattern in the clothing guard.

1. Remove the nuts and screws from the seat brackets (see Figure 4, item 1).
2. Move the seat brackets according to the hole pattern in the clothing guard (see Figure 6).
3. Reattach the seat brackets with the existing nuts and screws.

There should be a distance of 2–3 fingers between the front edge of the seat and the hollow of the knee. This space is necessary to ensure good blood circulation in the legs and to prevent the pinching of nerves and blood vessels.

Warning: Adjusting the seat depth may affect the position of the feet in relation to the foot support. This may need to be corrected before adjusting the seat angle (see section 9.2.2 Adjusting the seat angle).

Adjusting the back support height

1. Loosen the two nuts (see Figure 7) completely and remove the two hexagon head screws from the holes on both sides of the wheelchair.
2. Slide the back support up or down along the hole pattern (see Figure 8) until the desired position is reached.
3. Insert the hexagon head screws into the holes of the new sitting position and then hand-tighten the hexagon head screws on both sides of the wheelchair.

Adjusting the back support angle

1. Loosen the upper nut (see Figure 7) and remove the hexagon head screw on both sides.
2. Loosen the lower nut (see Figure 7) by one turn on both sides and tilt the back support according to the hole pattern until the desired angle is reached.
3. Hand-tighten the lower nut on both sides.
4. Insert the upper hexagon head screws into the holes of the new back support position and then hand-tighten the hexagon head screws on both sides of the wheelchair.

Seat height, seat angle

Adjusting the seat height

• The seat height is the distance between the top edge of the seat and the ground. Together with the wheel size, this distance determines how well the child can reach the handrims of the drive wheels and is therefore very important. The seat height can be adjusted in increments of 20 mm.
• As a rule of thumb, the distance from the shoulder to the top of the tyre should be at least 2/3 and at most 3/4 of the arm length. To make adjustments, the child must get out of the wheel-chair and both drive wheels and the seating unit must be removed.
• The seat height can be adjusted by sliding the entire seat up or down using the hole pattern in the clothing guard.

1. Loosen the nuts and remove the screws from the seat brackets (see Figure 10, item 1).
2. Slide the seat brackets along the hole pattern of the clothing guards to the new position (see Figure 9). The possible positions for attaching the seat brackets are shown in Figure 10.
3. Use the screws and nuts to attach the seat bracket in the new position.

Adjusting the seat angle

• The seat angle is the angle that the seat forms with a horizontal line. This angle can be set between -10° and +10° on the Kiddo Up. In general, a seat angle of +5° is considered comfortable. If the child drives primarily by themselves, a higher seat angle combined with a low seat height is often selected. This contributes to stable driving characteristics and late tipping moment of the seat.
• If a child is working behind a worktop for extended periods of time, for example, a smaller or even negative seat angle may be desirable because it activates a better sitting posture.
• If a negative seat angle is desired, both seat brackets have to be replaced.

Adjusting the positive seat angle

1. Slightly loosen the four Allen head nuts (see Figure 11, item 1).
2. Move the seat up or down at the front.
3. After adjusting the seat angle, hand-tighten the four Allen head nuts.

Adjusting the negative seat angle
In this case, the child has to get out of the wheelchair.

1. Fully loosen the four hexagon socket screws (see Figure 12, item 1) securing the seat (see “Seat depth” section) and remove the seat.
2. Remove the seat supports (see Figure 13, item 2) by loosening the four Allen head nuts (see Figure 13, item 3).
3. Turn the left seat support 180° around the longitudinal axis and reattach it with the carriage screws (see Figure 13, item 4) and the Allen head nuts on the right side (the lip is now facing up).
4. Repeat these steps for the seat support on the right side.

After attaching the seat, the child can get back in the wheelchair in order to adjust the seat depth and seat angle. Knee and foot angle 9.3.1 Adjusting the knee angle

1. Loosen the upper hexagon socket screw (see Figure 14, item 1) slightly. This allows the entire leg support to move.
2. Adjust the position of the leg support.
3. Retighten the hexagon socket screw (see Figure 14, item 1).

Adjusting the lower leg length

1. Open the clamp (see Figure 14, item 2).
2. Loosen the adjustment screw in the clamp by one turn.
3. Set the desired length.
4. Hand-tighten the adjustment screw.
5. Close the clamp again.

Adjusting the foot angle

1. Insert a round head screw (see Figure 15, item 3) into the adjustment plate (see Figure 15, item 4).
2. Turn it until the desired foot angle is reached.

• If necessary, a counter nut can be screwed onto the round head screw on the underside of the adjustment plate.
• Notice: A “normal” foot and knee angle is when there is 90° between the foot and lower leg and between the thigh and lower leg. When adjusting the depth and angle, it is therefore important to ensure that the foot plate is at the same angle as the seat and that the rear edge of the foot plate is vertically aligned with the front edge of the seat.

Attaching the foot plate
The foot plate can also be attached (with or without a changed ankle angle) by screwing a round head screw (see Figure 15, item 5) through the tilt plate into the foot plate block (see Figure 15, item 6).

1. Screw a round head screw through the tilt plate into the foot plate block.
2. In doing so, position the foot plate at the desired foot angle.

Head support (optional)

Removing the head support or adjusting its height
You can choose a head support with or without a belt spacer. This section describes how to adjust a head support with a belt spacer.

1. Loosen the star knob (see Figure 16, item 1) slightly and slide the entire head support system up or down until the desired position is reached, or pull the head support out completely.
2. Then tighten the star knob again.

The fixation piece (see Figure 17, item 4) is height-adjustable. It ensures that the head support is repositioned at the same height if it has been removed from the wheelchair.

Adjusting the head support
The head support consists of loose joint plates (see Figure 18, item 5) which can be adjusted so that the head support is positioned above the back support at the desired height and angle.

1. Loosen the cap nuts (see Figure 18, item 6) by one turn and move the head support to the desired position.
2. Hand-tighten the cap nuts again.

The head support shown in Figure 18 has a belt spacer with fasteners (fix locks) (see Figure 18,  item 7). These fasteners are used to attach belts.

Tray (optional) Attaching/removing the tray

1. Place the wheelchair wheel locks in the parking position.
2. To attach the tray, insert the tubes of the tray into the holders on the frame from above and push the tray down as far as it will go.
3. To remove the tray, pull it up and out of the holders.

Adjusting the height of the tray

1. Press the compression spring (see Figure 21, item 1).
2. Slide the tubes up or down to the desired position and allow the compression spring to engage in the new position.

General operation

The figure below shows you how to disassemble the Kiddo Up. Disassembling the wheelchair makes it easier to transport (without user) and store. All the measures required to do this are described in the next section.

Disassembly and weight of the Kiddo Up
The weight of each detachable unit is given below. This information is important when assembling, disassembling and/or carrying the wheelchair. The specified weights vary according to the selected options and variants.

1. Chassis approx. 7.5 kg (min.) approx. 15 kg (max.)
2. Wheels approx. 2.5 kg

Wheel assembly and function of the wheel lock
Removing/attaching the drive wheel

1. To install a wheel on a quick-release axle, set the wheel lock to the freewheel position*.
2. Tip the wheelchair with one hand on the clothing guard or frame.
3. Hold the wheel by the wheel hub and press the quick-release button (see Figure 23, item 1).
4. Push the axle (see Figure 23, item 2) into the guide (see Figure 23, item 3) until the wheel is fully inserted into the chassis.
5. Let go of the button.
6. The button jumps out and the axle engages in the guide.
7. After installing a wheel with quick-release axle, check whether the axle is engaged in the guide. You can do this by taking hold of a mounted wheel by the spokes of the wheel hub and trying to move it horizontally. If this is not possible, the axle is locked.

Freewheel = wheel lock not active

Operating the push-to-lock wheel lock

1. Push the wheel lock lever (see Figure 24) forward (viewed from the sitting position) to bring the wheel lock into the parking position.
2. Pull the wheel lock lever back to release the wheel.

Anti-tipper
The anti-tipper prevents the wheelchair from tipping backward. The anti-tipper can be deactivated, for example when crossing obstacles.

Deactivating the anti-tipper

1. Push the anti-tipper (see Figure 25, item 1) down.
2. Push the anti-tipper inward until it engages in the locked position.

Activating the anti-tipper

1. Push the anti-tipper (see Figure 25, item 1) down.
2. Push the anti-tipper outward until it is in the operating position and engages there. You will hear a clear “click” sound.

Adjusting the length of the anti-tipper
Move the screw (see Figure 25, item 2) to another hole in the curved piece.

Seating unit
Tilting the seating unit

1. To tilt the seating unit, press the control pedal (see Figure 26, item 1) of the tilt mechanism down with your foot.
2. Now push on the push bar and tilt the seating unit to the desired position.
3. Release the control pedal.
4. The seating unit engages in the tilt plate.

The seating unit can be adjusted from 5° forward to 40° back (see Figure 27).

Using the product

1. Water, sand, food waste, litter, etc.

2. You may come into contact with the above-mentioned impurities while using your wheelchair, which may impair its function.

3. Avoid full or partial immersion in water. If your wheelchair gets wet or you clean it with water, dry it as well as possible.

4. To avoid corrosion of the product, do not use it in salt water.

5. Sand, food waste, road dirt, hair, etc. cause abrasion and therefore wear on the moving parts (see section 14 Cleaning and care).

6. Assistance from an attendant

7. Warning: Failure to observe the warnings below may cause the user to tip over or fall down and lead to injury to the user or attendant.

8. User:

9. Get to know your attendant and learn what they are capable of. Ensure that they are familiar with the warnings as well as the safety and technical instructions for using the wheelchair. As a user, make sure that the attendant knows your wishes and knows what you expect from them.

10. Centre of gravity
    Warning:

11. The moment when the wheelchair tips forward, backward or sideways depends on the centre of gravity and stability. The most important setting on your wheelchair is the position of the seating unit in relation to the drive wheels. The further back the seating unit is, the easier the wheelchair will be to manoeuvres, but the higher the risk of the wheelchair tipping backward will be.

12. Changing the wheelchair setting increases or reduces the risk of falling or tipping over. Always have skilled persons carry out these settings.

13. In order to avoid falling or tipping over, you need to learn how to maintain balance. You should not try to find this out on your own and should make sure you get help. The anti-tipper supports are a device that prevents you from falling over.

14. The centre of gravity and stability of your wheelchair are also influenced by changes to body position and/or posture. Driving the wheelchair on an inclined surface or hanging a bag on the back of the wheelchair will also affect your balance.

15. The centre of gravity and stability of your wheelchair are impaired when you enter and exit the ramp to a transport vehicle. An attendant must ensure that the wheelchair does not tip over due to a lack of balance (see Figure 28).

16. Dressing and changing
    Warning: When you get dressed or changed, your weight shifts in your wheelchair. This may cause you to fall or tip over, which may lead to serious injury.

17. Wheelies (balancing on the drive wheels)
    When you perform a wheelie, you balance on the drive wheels of your wheelchair while the caster wheels are not touching the ground. If you can do this confidently, you will be able to negotiate curbs and other obstacles easily.
    Warning :

18. It is dangerous to perform a wheelie as you may fall or tip backward, which may lead to serious injury. Always observe the following warnings:

19. Talk to your therapist or another qualified consultant about whether and how you can learn to perform a wheelie responsibly.

20. Do not try to perform a wheelie if you are not an experienced user or if you do not have any help.

21. Reaching or leaning out
    Warning:

22. Reaching out or leaning forward affects the wheelchair’s centre of gravity. Failure to observe these warnings may cause you to fall or tip over and lead to serious injury.

23. Avoid reaching out or leaning forward if this would require you to change your centre of gravity. If you lean forward, the wheelchair may tip over. Always keep the lower section of your back in contact with the back support. Ask for help or use a device to increase your reach.

24. Never reach out with both hands. If you do, you may no longer be able to catch yourself if the wheelchair tips forward.

25. Never lean back to reach for an item unless your wheelchair has anti-tipper supports.

26. Hills and slopes
    Warning: When you drive up or down a slope, or cross a slope, your wheelchair’s centre of gravity changes. Failure to observe these warnings may lead to serious injury as a result of the wheelchair tipping over or you losing control of it:

27. Avoid turning on a slope or crossing one sideways as this may cause the wheelchair to tip over. If possible, always drive straight up or down a slope.

28. Always be extremely careful when driving up or down a slope of more than 10 % (1 in 10) (see Figure 29). Ask for help if you become overwhelmed when driving on a slope.

29. Anti-tipper supports cannot prevent you from tipping backward on a steep slope. You may not be able to reach the top of a steep slope without stopping in between. If you need to stop, you need to do so with the wheelchair at a right angle to the slope, otherwise you may lose control and tip backward. Normally, driving backward on a steep slope is the better option, as you can use more strength. You should try to find out if this applies to you.

30. Always keep your speed under control when driving down a hill. If you drive too fast, you may lose control of your wheelchair. Ask for help if you are unable to drive up or down the hill your-self. You can control your speed by constantly putting pressure on the tyres. However, wear gloves or other protection, as the friction of the tyres may burn your hands. Never use the wheel locks to slow down or stop. If you do, you may lose control of the wheelchair or it may tip over.

Transferring (from the wheelchair to another seat or vice versa)
Warning:

• Failure to observe these warnings may cause you to fall or tip over, which may lead to serious injury.
• Transferring requires good balance and dexterity and can be very dangerous. Remember that there is a moment when the wheelchair is not below you.
• To prevent falls, you must:
  • learn how to position your body and how to support yourself during the transfer.
  • learn a method for performing a safe transfer with your therapist or an expert consultant.
  • have someone with you who can help you until you are sure you can perform the transfer safely on your own.

Curbs and steps

Warning:

• Failure to observe these warnings may cause you to fall or tip over, which may lead to serious injury to you or others.
• Never drive up or down a curb or step on your own unless you are an experienced wheelchair user and are confident in performing a wheelie, or you are sure you have the required upper body strength.
• Do not attempt to drive up a high curb or step (more than 10 cm) without assistance. Your wheelchair may exceed its centre of gravity and tip backward (see Figure 30).
• Always drive straight (at a right angle) onto a curb or over a curb. If you drive at a different angle, there is a high risk that you will fall because the wheelchair is tilted.

Using stairs

• Avoid this if possible to prevent injury to yourself and/or your attendants. Read and observe the warnings for attendants. Failure to observe these warnings may cause the user to fall or tip over and lead to serious injury to the user and/or attendant.
• Always use two or more attendants when bringing a wheelchair up or down stairs together with the user.
• Ensure that the user is sitting securely in the wheelchair and their arms, legs and hands do not come into contact with obstacles.

Recommended carrying method:

• The attendants position themselves to the left and right of the wheelchair the user is sitting in.
• The attendants take hold of the wheelchair underneath the seat at the front and back.
• The attendants carefully lift the wheelchair and find the centre of gravity of the wheel-chair with the user sitting in it.

Security systems
Notwithstanding compliance with all applicable guidelines and standards, alarm systems (e.g. in department stores) may respond to your product. Should this happen, remove your product from the area where the alarm was triggered.

Supporting surface
The wheelchair works best on hard surfaces. Avoid soft surfaces such as sand, grass, dirt tracks, gravel paths, etc.

Transport

Transportation without the user

• When transporting the product in vehicles, remove the wheels, if necessary.
• Follow the IATA (International Air Transport Association) rules and those of the relevant airline when transporting the product in an aircraft. Inform the airline several days before your flight. Use the SSR (special service request) codes if needed to describe the type of limited mobility. The codes can be found on the internet, for example.
• Visit www.iata.org for further information. The manufacturer recommends contacting the airline directly before every flight to obtain information regarding special transport regulations.

Use in vehicles for transporting persons with reduced mobility

• Always use the seats and personal restraint systems installed in the vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility first. This is the only way to ensure optimum protection of passengers in the event of an accident.
• The product may be used as a seat in a vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility if the safety elements provided by the manufacturer and appropriate fastening and personal restraint systems are used.
• The Kiddo Up was tested with a test dummy secured with a 3-point belt in the front position (facing forward). The product’s suitability for collisions other than those mentioned in the above standard has not been tested.
• When the wheelchair is used as a seat in a vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility, Veldink4kids requires the wheelchair to be equipped with a head support (or head support system) that has been approved in the ISO 7176-19 crash test. If head supports are installed in the vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility, these must be used.
• The Kiddo Up must be attached to the floor of the transport vehicle with an approved 4- point restraint system.
• The positions of the four attachment points on the Kiddo Up are marked with a hook symbol sticker (see Figure 31, Figure 32).
• The Kiddo Up can rotate on its own axis. Please bear in mind that you will need a turning circle with a diameter of ±1.00 m when manoeuvring in the transport vehicle.
• The Kiddo Up must be positioned so that the user is facing forward. The wheelchair must be secured according to the instructions specified by the manufacturer of the wheelchair restraint system.
• The Kiddo Up must be secured with a restraint system suitable for the anchor points (see Figure 31, Figure 32).
• The occupant must be secured by an approved WTORS (wheelchair tiedown and occupant restraint system).
• The user must be secured in the transport vehicle with an approved 3-point safety belt. These safety belts must be attached to the transport vehicle.
• The lap belt must sit low on the user’s waist. The angle between the belt and the floor surface must be in the range of 30° to 75° (see Figure 33).
• The lap belt must rest where the hip meets the pelvis on the front of the body. The belt must be close to the body. The upper belt must support the user fully (see Figure 34).
  • The diagonal belt must stretch across the shoulder and chest.
  • The belts have to be tight, but not so tight that they are uncomfortable for the user.
  • The belt must not be fastened twisted.
• The belt must not be in contact with wheelchair components (such as forearm supports or wheels) that would prevent it from fully supporting the user’s body (see Figure 35).
  • The approved 3-point safety belt is designed to prevent injuries to the head and chest.
  • The aforementioned information on the safety belts is based on the ISO 7176-19 crash test, which the Kiddo Up has completed.
  • To avoid injury to other passengers, the tray must be removed (if there is one). This tray must be stored securely in the vehicle.
  • Accessories must be secured or removed, wherever possible.
  • After any accident, the manufacturer’s representative must assess whether the wheel-chair can be used again.
  • Changes and/or replacements to the attachment points or the structural and frame components must not be made without consulting the manufacturer.
• Warning: Sometimes the user is sitting so low in the wheelchair that the belt does not fit properly on the hips and/or touches the wheelchair. In such cases, the article “S1404T –
  Constriction of the back plate for vehicle bracket” can be ordered to provide additional space for the belt.

Positioning belt
The positioning belt is used to bring the occupant into the correct position. Attach it to the metal frame of the seat.

Warning: Under no circumstances may the belts and positioning aids that come with the product be used as part of a passenger restraint system in vehicles for transporting per-sons with reduced mobility. Note that the belts and positioning aids that come with the product are intended only as additional support for the user sitting in the product.

Restrictions for use

• Before using the product as a seat in a vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility, remove options that need to be taken off for safe transportation in such a vehicle.
• Please observe the following table.
• Stow all dismantled options securely in the vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility.
• The options/accessories listed below that are not relevant for positioning must be detached from the product and safely stowed in the vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility:
  • One-arm drive
  • Mud cruiser outdoor wheel attachment
  • Tray
  • Sun canopy
• The options/accessories listed below that are relevant for positioning can be detached from the product or remain on the product during transportation in a vehicle for transporting persons with reduced mobility, depending on the evaluation of the qualified personnel. The qualified personnel has to evaluate the risk of injury in case of an accident compared to the risk of medically inadequate positioning. This evaluation can be performed only by qualified personnel and individually for each user.
  • Removable pommel
  • Seat extension
  • Lateral supports

Malfunctions and maintenance

• All Veldink products leave the factory tested and adjusted for immediate use. Continuous use requires regular maintenance and adjustments, especially when the original settings are changed. The initial adjustments made by qualified personnel should be appropriate to your physique and personal preferences.
• If you want to change a setting yourself, you can do this using the following tools: 3, 4, 5 and 6 mm Allen keys, 13 mm open-end spanner.
• The table below indicates when routine maintenance should be performed.

Checklist

| Weekly| Quarterly| Semiannually| Annually
---|---|---|---|---
Tyre pressure for drive wheels, optimum use 450 kPa / 4.5 bar (65 psi)|

| | |
Tighten the spokes (distributor or bicycle dealer)| |

| |
Check the wheel lock and readjust if required| |

| |
Check that the caster wheel and head tube turn correctly| |

| |
Check the wheelchair track and if the wheel- chair drives straight ahead without additional pushing or braking| |

| |
Check the seat and back support upholstery for wear and tear| | | |
Complete inspection, safety testing and maintenance must be performed by your distributor or Veldink| | | |

Cleaning and care

• In addition to the routine maintenance mentioned above, both the frame and the product upholstery must be cleaned regularly. Light dirt can be removed with a solution of mild detergent and warm water. Rinse with clean water before allowing the upholstery to dry.
• Never put the wheelchair upholstery in a tumble dryer!
• Do not use bleaching agents or solvents. If dirt has penetrated the upholstery, you can carefully scrub the upholstery with a soft brush.
• The frame must be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth and possibly a cleaning agent (do not use any corrosive or abrasive agents such as acetone, acid or a steel wool pad). Then wipe with a soft, dry cloth to avoid drying stains. You can repair damaged areas with a touch-up applicator.
• Regularly remove hair and dirt from the wheel axles and the outside of the bearings. The ball bearings are sealed. Do not exert pressure on them, because the sealing rings are made of rubber and, if bent away, could cause dirt to penetrate the interior of the bearings.

Disinfection

• Thoroughly clean the padding and handles before disinfecting.
• Wipe all parts of the product with a disinfectant.

Important information about disinfecting

• If the product is used by more than one person, a conventional disinfectant must be used.
• Only use colourless water-based disinfectants. Follow the instructions for use provided by the manufacturer.

Information on re-use

• The product is generally suitable for re-use. Please note, however, that the product has permanently welded dimensions and was custom made for a particular user.
• Similar to second-hand machines or vehicles, products that are being reused are subject to increased strain. Characteristics and performance must not change in a way that could endanger users or third parties during re-use.
• The relevant product must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before reuse. The product must then be examined by an authorized specialist to check the condition and to look for wear and tear and damage. All worn and damaged parts as well as components which do not fit or are unsuitable for the new user must be replaced.

Lifetime

• Expected lifetime: 5 years
• The design, manufacturing process and requirements for the intended use of the product are based on the expected lifetime. These also include the requirements for servicing and for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the product.

Environmental conditions

• Temperatures and relative humidity
  • Temperature during use [°C (°F)] -10 to +40 (14 to 104)
  • Transport and storage temperature [°C (°F)] -10 to +40 (14 to 104)
  • Relative humidity [%] 45 to 85; non condensing

Appendices

• Threshold values for wheelchairs transportable by train
• The products in this series fully satisfy the minimum technical requirements of Regulation (EU) No. 1300/2014 regarding train accessibility for people with disabilities. However, not all versions can comply with all threshold values due to different settings.
• With the help of the table that follows, you or the qualified personnel can take measurements and verify whether the specific product in question meets the threshold values.

Characteristic| Threshold value (according to Regulation (EU) No. 1300/2014)
---|---
Length [mm]| 1200 (plus 50 mm for the feet)
Width [mm]| 700 (plus 50 mm on each side for the hands when moving)
Smallest wheels [”]| approx. 3 or greater (according to the regulation, the

smallest wheel must be able to accommodate a gap measuring 75 mm horizontally and 50 mm vertically)

Height [mm]| max. 1375; including a 1.84 m tall male wheelchair user (95th percentile)
Turning circle [mm]| 1500
Maximum weight [kg]| 200 (for wheelchair and user, including any baggage)
Maximum obstacle height that can be overcome [mm]| 50
Ground clearance [mm]| 60 (at an upward slope angle of 10°, ground clearance

must measure at least 60 mm under the leg support for going forward at the end of the slope)

Maximum inclination angle on which the wheelchair will remain stable [°]| 6 (dynamic stability in all directions)

9 (static stability in all directions, also when wheel lock engaged)

Your specialist dealer
Veldink4kids Drentse Poort 15 A Nieuw-Buinen 9521 JA
The Netherlands

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>