STRONGBACK Mobility 1002 Transport Transit Wheelchair Instruction Manual

STRONGBACK Mobility 1002 Transport Transit Wheelchair

Specifications

• Model: XYZ-123
• Power: 120V, 60Hz
• Dimensions: 10″ x 8″ x 5″
• Weight: 5 lbs

Product Information
The XYZ-123 is a versatile and compact device designed to provide efficient performance for various tasks.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Unpack the XYZ-123 and place it on a flat, stable surface.
2. Connect the power cord to a suitable power outlet.
3. Refer to the user manual for specific instructions on different functions and settings.
4. Press the power button to turn on the device.
5. Follow the specific guidelines for each task you intend to perform with the XYZ-123.

Introduction

We would like to thank you for the trust you have placed in us by purchasing this wheelchair.
By opting for the STRONGBACK 8/125/12 with its revolutionary STRONGBACK system, you have chosen a top-quality lightweight wheelchair that has been specially designed to ensure your sitting position is both comfortable and ergonomic.
A wheelchair is a medical device and a technical aid, so you must know how to use it correctly, as improper use may be dangerous. We therefore ask you to read these instructions carefully before using the wheelchair for the first time. They contain important safety information for users and their companions, along with useful tips on how to use and look after your wheelchair.

Safety instructions

• Ensure that any defects are immediately checked and repaired by a qualified wheelchair technician.
• Do not make any modifications to the wheelchair yourself. Contact your dealer to arrange for any such modifications to be made. Any improper changes or modifications to the wheelchair may result in the wheelchair not functioning properly and increase the risk of accident.
• Only use original parts and accessories approved by Strongback Mobility.
• All moveable parts should be serviced periodically to ensure that the wheelchair is working properly and can be used safely.
• Exposure to water or high levels of humidity may result in the wheelchair becoming rusty. Do not use the wheelchair in the shower or swimming pool, and store it away from potentially damp spaces such as the bathroom. If the wheelchair still comes into contact with water, make sure you dry it out as quickly as possible.
• Please note that padded or upholstered areas may become hot if exposed to direct sunlight and may cause injuries to the skin if touched. Therefore, it is important to ensure that these parts are kept covered or that the wheelchair is kept out of direct sunlight.
• This product has not been tested by ISO 8191-1 and 8191-2 and is therefore not deemed to be fire resistant. It is vital to ensure that any padded, upholstered or attached parts are not exposed to sources of fire such as cigarettes, cigarette lighters or other open flames.
• All companions must be physically and mentally capable of maneuvering and controlling the wheelchair with the user in it. This includes being able to tip the wheelchair and lift it onto the pavement.
• In case of any serious incident that has occurred to the device please report it to the manufacturer and the competent authority of the Member State in which you are established.

Safety instructions for use

• If you are unsure about your wheelchair’s operation or any of the instructions given in this user manual please arrange for a specialist to show you how to use the wheelchair before using it for the first time. Please contact the dealer where you purchased the wheelchair.
  Practice using your new wheelchair on a flat, manageable surface to avoid potential falls and dangerous situations. It is recommended to have someone with you while you are practicing Before you start using your wheelchair please make sure that all attached parts have been properly secured.

• Please ensure that you comply with the maximum load capacity of 300 lbs / 135 kg. In doing so, it is important to take additional weight into account, such as bags or rucksacks.

• Always ensure that the wheelchair has been fully unfolded before sitting in it.

• Never use the wheelchair while under the influence of alcohol or other substances that may affect your concentration or physical and mental abilities. This is also true for any company.

• always apply the wheel lock before getting in or out of the wheelchair.

• Keep hands and fingers away from all moving parts whenever possible. Please be aware that parts of the body or clothing can be entangled by moving parts.

• Never use a wheelchair on an escalator.

• Steps and larger obstacles should only be tackled with the help of at least two companions. If facilities such as access ramps, lifts or stair-climbing devices have been provided, these should be used at all times.

• The wheelchair should only be lifted by holding permanently mounted parts and not, for example, by holding the footrests.
  The wheel lock should not be used to slow down the wheelchair while it is moving.
  Road traffic regulations should be observed at all times when using a wheelchair on roads. Passive lights (reflectors) that are always visible to other road users should be fitted before using the wheelchair on roads.

• Ensure that the tires have sufficient depth of tread at all times.

Safety instructions – preventing tipping

• Please be aware that there is the danger of tipping over when traveling on slopes of more than 12% (7°). The dynamic stability of the wheelchair on slopes is dependent on the configuration of the wheelchair itself as well as the skills and handling style of the user, therefore it cannot be specified in advance.
• Avoid weight shifts that could lead to the wheelchair tipping over, for example, take care when:
  • Adding additional cushions or other sitting aids
  • Changes to posture, sitting position or weight distribution
  • Attaching a rucksack or bag to the wheelchair. This changes the center of gravity and increases the probability of tipping.
• If an object that you would like to get hold of is beyond your reach, ask for help or use other aids to get hold of it.

STRONGBACK 12S / STRONGBACK 12 / STRONGBACK 8

• Always align the front wheels to the front as soon as the wheelchair is stationary. To do this, move the wheelchair slightly forward and then slightly backward. This increases stability and reduces the risk of tipping. Please read Chapter 4 for a detailed description.
• There is an increased risk of tipping over when traveling on poor-quality paths or roads (e.g. coarse gravel, potholes, etc.) or moving over drops (e.g. curbs, etc.).

Transportation in motor vehicles

• This wheelchair is not intended to be an alternative to a car seat.
• When traveling by car, the wheelchair user should always transfer to a seat intended for use in such a vehicle. Ensure the wheelchair is securely folded together for transportation in the car. Always transport the wheelchair in the trunk or luggage compartment of the vehicle.
• Never use a wheelchair that has been involved in a traffic accident.

General information

• These instructions for use are designed to help you familiarize yourself with the use and handling of the wheelchair. They are an integral and necessary component of the wheelchair. Ensure that you always have these instructions on hand and make sure that yo include them with the wheelchair when you transfer it to another owner.
• Please read all the instructions carefully before using the wheelchair for the first time.

Signs and symbols

Caution: It is important to follow all the instructions in the sections marked with this symbol to avoid potential injury to yourself or people in your vicinity.

Intended purpose

• The STRONGBACK 8 / 125 /12 is designed solely to transport a physically disabled person and improve their mobility. It has been designed for both indoor and outdoor use.
• The wheelchair has been designed to accommodate a maximum load of 300 lbs / 135 kg.
• Liability can only be accepted if the product is used under the prescribed conditions and f its intended purposes.

Indications for use
Inability to walk or serious difficulty in walking as a result of:

• Paralysis
• Limb loss
• Limb defect/deformity
• Joint contractures / joint damage
• other illnesses

STRONGBACK 12S / STRONGBACK 12 / STRONGBACK 8

Contraindications
The wheelchair is unsuitable for use in cases of:

• severe balance disorders
• Perceptual disorders
• Loss of both arms
• Joint contractures / joint damage in both arms
• Inability to sit

Service life
If used properly and if the safety, maintenance, and service instructions are followed correctly, the service life of the wheelchair is up to 5 years. If the wheelchair is maintained I an orderly state, it may be possible to continue using the wheelchair beyond this time.

Responsibility
As a manufacturer, we can only assume responsibility for the safety, reliability, and usability of the wheelchair in so far as any modifications, extensions, repairs or servicing are carried out exclusively by persons who are authorized by us to do so and in so far as the wheelchair has been used by all instructions for use.

Declaration of conformity
As the manufacturer of the product, Strongback Mobility AG hereby declares that the STRONGBACK 8 / 125 / 12 fully conforms to the requirements of European Regulation (EU) 2017/745 and the US FDA requirements of 21 CFR.

Contraindications
The wheelchair is unsuitable for use in cases of:

• severe balance disorders
• Perceptual disorders
• Loss of both arms
• Joint contractures / joint damage in both arms
• Inability to sit

Service life
If used properly and if the safety, maintenance, and service instructions are followed correctly, the service life of the wheelchair is up to 5 years. If the wheelchair is maintained in an orderly state, it may be possible to continue using the wheelchair beyond this time.

Responsibility
As a manufacturer, we can only assume responsibility for the safety, reliability, and usability of the wheelchair in so far as any modifications, extensions, repairs, or servicing are carried out exclusively by persons who are authorized by us to do so and in so far as the wheelchair has been used by all instructions for use.

3.5 Declaration of conformity
As the manufacturer of the product, Strongback Mobility AG hereby declares that the STRONGBACK 8 / 125 / 12 fully conforms to the requirements of European Regulation (EU 2017/745 and the US FDA requirements of 21 CFR.

General tips for using the wheelchair

If this is your first time or even if you are a regular wheelchair user, roper use is necessary t remain safe.

1. Maintaining your center of balance is key and must be considered when you are reaching, bending or transferring (Figure 1 and Figure 2). This helps you maintain stability and balance and keeps you seated correctly.
2. Practicing bending, reaching – forward, backwards and side to side with assistance until you are confident you are maintaining your center of gravity.
   • Figure 2 Incorrect sitting posture – the centre of gravity shifted too far forward.
   • Figure 1 Correct sitting posture – center of gravity in the center.

Standing or transferring

• Assistance standings or transferring from your wheelchair is preferred to keep you safe.
• However, if you are alone and need transferring or standing, you must take the following steps to reduce the chance of falling or tinning

1. Clearing the area of obstacles before standing is important to decrease the risk of tripping or falling.
2. Park the wheelchair as close as possible to the area where you will do the transfer.
3. Roll backward a few inches until the front caster wheels spin around. This positions the casters so they are extended away from the drive-wheels creating the longest possible wheelbase (Figure 3 and Figure 4). A longer wheelbase means a larger tipping stability.
4. Engage wheel locks.
5. Swing away the footrests and place your feet securely on the floor. A wider stance may help you stabilize.
6. Stand up slowly and steady while using your arms to help you maintain your center of gravity (Figure 5 and Figure 6).
   • Figure 6 Correct posture – centre of gravity in the centre and front wheel facing forward.
   • Figure 6 Incorrect posture – centre of gravity shifted too far forward and front wheels not aligned to the front.

Caution: Never lean forward or scoot to the front end of the seat. Be sure caster wheels are set and wheel locks are engaged.

Side or backwards reaching

1. Position yourself as close to the item as possible.
2. Roll backward a few inches until the front caster wheels spin around. This positions the casters so they are extended away from the drive-wheels creating the longest possible wheelbase.
3. Engage wheel locks.
4.  Reach down or back only as far as your arm will extend while maintaining your center of gravity.

Caution!

• Never scoot forward in the seat or reach between your knees for an object.
• Through the weight shift, the wheelchair can tip over.

Getting over curbs and obstacles

• When the need for curb climbing arises, an assistant should:
• The attendant then places their foot on the tipping assist lever and pushes down with their foot while slowly pulling back on the handles (do NOT push down on handles).

Product description

• The STRONGBACK 8 / 125 / 12 is a lightweight folding wheelchair with integrated ergonomic back support (lumbar support). It is pre-assembled and delivered in a cardboard box. After unpacking, if possible keep the cardboard box and other packing materials as they may b required for storing the wheelchair at a later date.
• Please check the contents of the package upon receipt to ensure that all parts have been included and are undamaged. Do not use the product if any of the parts are damaged. Inform your specialist retailer of any damage without delay.
• The STRONGBACK 8 / 12S / 12 is a lightweight folding wheelchair with integrated ergonomic back support (lumbar support). It is pre-assembled and delivered in a cardboard box. After unpacking, if possible keep the cardboard box and other packing materials as they may be required for storing the wheelchair at a later date.
• Please check the contents of the package upon receipt to ensure that all parts have been included and are undamaged. Do not use the product if any of the parts are damaged.
• Inform your specialist retailer of any damage without delay.

Scope of supply
The contents of the Strongback Mobility box should include:

• 1 wheelchair, pre-assembled and folded
• 1 pair of footrests
• 1 set of instructions for use
• 1 set of tools
• Accessories (if ordered)

If the wheelchair is delivered by parcel post or carrier, the contents should be checked for any damage suffered in transit immediately and in the presence of the delivery person(s). If there is any damage, please proceed as follows:

• Make a note of the damage.
• Write a declaration of assignment; all claims arising as a result of the damage are assigned to the deliverer.
• Send the record of damage, consignment note, and declaration of assignment to the company where you purchased the wheelchair.

Labelling
The product identification plate is located on the inside of the lower side frame tube. This plate includes the serial number, model name, and other technical details. If you need to contact your dealer about repairs, replacement parts, warranty claims or damage to the wheelchair suffered in transit, please ensure that you have the following details on hand: the wheelchair’s exact model name and number, month of manufacture, lot number and serial
number.

Overview

1. Push handles
2. Attendant brakes (optional)
3. Backrest with integrated lumbar support
4. Back hinge
5. Armrests (optional in some models with flip-back armrest)
6. Wheel locks
7. Rear wheels (optional in some models with drum breaks)
8. Castor
9. Footrests plate
10. Footrest (swingable and removable)
11. Seat cushion
12. Aluminium frame

Adjustments

The adjustments described below should be carried out in consultation with your specialist medical aid supplier. You may also be able to make these adjustments yourself if you have sufficient previous knowledge and have been given clear instructions from the supplier.

The following tools will be required to make these adjustments:

• Allen key set (included in the toolset)

Caution: Complete these adjustments before the user sits in the wheelchair to avoid potential injury.

Adjusting the length of the footrests

• The height of the footrests can be adjusted to suit the length of the user’s lower leg.
• To adjust the height, undo the Allen screw (1) on each footrest. You can now adjust the height of the footrests by selecting one of the pre-defined positions marked by the holes in the tubing (2). The ideal length of the footrest is obtained when your thighs are fully and comfortably supported by the chair seat when you place your feet on the footplates. To complete the adjustment, tighten the Allen screw securely in the hole you have selected.

Adjusting the backrest
The backrest is set in a predefined position during manufacture and is likely to be suitable for most users. However, it can be individually adjusted by opening the Velcro fasteners and loosening or tightening them in accordance with the user’s needs before closing them again. After each adjustment, it is important to ensure that the Velcro fasteners are firmly attached so that they do not open accidentally.

• To adjust the support for the lower spine to a higher position, tighten the middle fasteners (2) and loosen the lower fasteners (3).
• To adjust the support for the lower spine to a lower position, tighten the lower fasteners (3) and loosen the middle fasteners (2).
• To increase the area of the support for the lower spine, tighten both the middle fasteners (2) and the lower fasteners (3).
• To decrease the size of the posture support for the lower spine, loosen both the middle fasteners (2) and the lower fasteners (3).
• To alter the posture support for the upper back and so change the backrest angle, first remove the fixing screws (4). Next, tighten the upper fasteners (1) to provide a higher level of support, or loosen them to provide a lower level of support. When the ideal position has been found, screw the fixing screws through the material and back into the frame.

Adjusting the wheel locks

• The wheel locks are adjusted correctly during manufacture and should not require further adjustment. Over time of use, however, it may be required to re-adjust the wheel locks to ensure proper function. In any case, if you feel that the locks are not tight enough, adjust them immediately as follows.
• Open the locks entirely by pulling the lever backwards as far as possible. Loosen the screws (1) on the top of the rail (2). Slide the lock in its rail forward (to loosen the lock) or backwards (to tighten the lock). Make sure that the lever remains upright. Tighten the screws.

The optimum distance (factory setting) between the brake shoe and the tire when the brake is not engaged is 10-12 mm.

Caution; Make sure the wheel lock always locks the wheel securely when engaged (lever pushed forward) under all conditions. Serious injury may result if the wheel lock is not effective! It is advisable that only specialist staff carry out wheel lock adjustments.

Handling

Unfolding the wheelchair
Unfold the frame of the wheelchair by pushing down evenly on the outer edges of the seat using both hands (1) until the seat is fully extended (2).

Caution: Do not hold the sides of the seat while pushing down. You could trap your fingers! Hands and fingers must remain on top of the seat while pushing down.

Raise the upper half of the backrest by pulling both push handles backward and upwards (3)

Folding the wheelchair
Fold the backrest by using both hands to press the black plastic levers on the folding back release hinges against the frame (1) before folding the upper part of the backrest down evenly on both sides (2).

Fold the frame by first folding the footplates into the upright position (3) and then pulling the seat evenly upwards using both hands to hold the middle of the seat at the front and rear (4).

Getting in and out
Make sure that you have tested your mobility limits with an expert before the first use of your wheelchair. During untrained entering and exiting of the wheelchair, it can become unstable and tip over.
The wheel locks must be locked during these maneuvers. Footrests should be folded up or can be removed.

Using the wheel locks
The wheels are locked when the handle is pushed completely down and forward. To unlock, pull the handle upward and backward. Lock both wheels before each embarking or disembarking. Lock the wheels when in an elevator or a similar situation. The wheel locks should not be used to reduce speed while moving.

Using the attendant brakes
Some STRONGBACK 8 / 125 / 12 models come with attendant brakes. To operate the brakes, simply squeeze the attendant brake handle (1) (2).

The attendant brakes can be locked in one of the following two ways (depending on the type of attendant brake installed on your wheelchair):

• Push the lower handle straight down until it stays in the locked position (2).
• With the brake handle pulled (3), push the locking lever (4) and release the brake handle.

To release the locking mechanism, simply pull the brake handle.

Caution: Check the proper operation of the attendant brakes before each wheelchair ride, especially before the first use. Brake failure or operating errors can result in serious injury to the user or the attendant.
If you suspect that the attendant brakes are not working properly or need to be adjusted, take the wheelchair to the dealer where you bought your wheelchair. The chair must not b used before it has been checked and repaired.

Swiveling the footrests

• To swivel the footrests, hold the top of the footrest and pull it gently upwards to release it from its locked position (1), then swivel the footrest forwards or backward until it is in the desired locked position.
• The footrests can be locked into place to the rear (2) to the side (2) and to the front (4).
• The lateral locked position is only intended for use when the user of the wheelchair is getting in and out of the chair. The chair should not be moved with the footrests locked in this position as the footrests may get caught on an obstacle or obstruction.

Caution

• Take care not to trap your fingers when swiveling the footrests to the rear.
• Move the footrests slowly and keep your fingers out of harm’s way.

Caution

• Do not stand on the footrests as they may break, increasing the risk of injury.
• The wheelchair could also tin over.

Removing the footrests
The footrests can be completely removed. To do this, the black plastic clip with the black locking pin (1) must be pulled horizontally out of the tube. Then the entire footrest can be pulled out of their sockets. When inserting it, make sure that the hole for the locking pin in the footrest and the hole in the frame tube are aligned.

Using the Flip-Back Armrests
Some STRONGBACK 125 / 12 models come with flip-back armrests. To operate the flip-back armrests, simply lift the armrest and fold it back until it is vertical. Flipping the armrests backwards will allow for easy transfer in and out of the chair.

Maintenance and service

As the user, you are likely to be the first to notice any damage to the wheelchair. Check the condition of your wheelchair regularly. If you discover a problem, consult an expert without delay. The wheelchair should be serviced by a specialist at least once a year. Before using the wheelchair for the first time and after every service or adjustment it is essential to check the following:

• Have all nuts, screws, and bolts been securely tightened? Self-locking nuts should only be used once and then replaced.
• Are there any signs of damage or wear and tear?
• Are all the settings correct?

Caution: Check all screw and bolt connections carefully immediately after carrying out repairs or adjustments. Any safety nuts that are removed during repairs should be replaced with new safety nuts when the wheelchair is re- assembled.

Checks prior to each use
We recommend that you check the following each time you use the wheelchair:

• Check that the brakes are working properly.
• Check that the wheels are functioning properly by testing whether the wheelchair travels in a straight line.
• Check that all removable parts are securely fixed in place, e.g. footrests, etc.
• Check the wheelchair for visible signs of damage, e.g. damage to the frame, backrest, seat and backrest upholstery, wheels, footplates, etc.
• Check the seat and backrest for material defects, tears, or loss of tension in the material.

Monthly checks

• Check that all moving parts, including the folding mechanism, move freely and quietly. Squeaking sounds suggest there may be damage and the wheelchair should be checked over by a specialist retailer.
• Check the proper operation of the brakes. If you suspect that the wheel lock or the attendant brakes are not working properly or need to be adjusted, take the wheelchair to the dealer where you bought your wheelchair.

Replacing parts
You can easily replace attached parts such as footrests yourself if they have become damaged. Please contact your specialist retailer to obtain the correct parts. To ensure that the replacement parts are correctly mounted, please refer to Chapter 6) and Chapter 7).

Spare parts and accessories

• Your specialist retailer will have all the necessary information relating to replacement parts.
• You can also find out more about recommended and available accessories on our website.

Cleaning and disinfecting
Clean the wheelchair using a soft cloth and soapy water. The wheels can be cleaned using water and a brush with plastic bristles (do not use a wire brush!). Do not use any corrosive cleaning agents as they could harm the armrest material and cause damage. Ensure that the wheelchair is thoroughly dried after cleaning. Never use a hose, high-pressure cleaner or similar devices to clean the wheelchair as the frame could become rusty. Approved sprays or disinfecting tissues can be used to disinfect the wheelchair.

Storing the wheelchair
The wheelchair should be kept or stored in a dry, dust-free place at normal room temperature.

Disposal
Please contact your specialist retailer if your wheelchair is no longer in use and requires disposal. If you wish to dispose of the wheelchair yourself, contact your local waste disposal operators by the local waste disposal regulations. Below is a description of the materials used in the wheelchair to assist with the process of disposal or recycling. There may be specific local regulations about disposal or recycling and these must be complied with when disposing of the wheelchair (this may include cleaning or decontaminating the wheelchair before disposal.)

• Steel: Quick-release axles, hinges, bolts and screws, studs and pins
• Aluminium: Frame (chassis)
• Plastics: Handles, tube plugs, casters, footplates, arm pads, drive wheels, side panels
• Padding and upholstery : Polyester fabric with PVC coating and foam material

Re-using the wheelchair

The STRONGBACK 8 / 125 / 12 is suitable for re-use by another user. The wheelchair should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected under the care and hygiene instructions included here. All technical documents on how to use the wheelchair safely should be included when the wheelchair is passed on to the new user. The wheelchair should first be checked by an authorized dealer under the maintenance and service protocol (see the maintenance and service requirements in Chapter 11) and passed on to the ne owner in perfect working order.

Guarantee / Legal Claims

• The frame of your STRONGBACK 8 / 125 / 12 is covered by Strongback Mobility’s two-year manufacturer’s warranty against material and manufacturing defects from the date of purchase. The seat, footrests, and all other parts are warranted for 12 months from the date of purchase. If the legal warranty in your country is more extensive, then this applies.
• To claim the warranty, please contact your dealer.
• Please keep the original packaging for later shipment for maintenance or repair.

For the US
Jurisdiction: Any disputes, claims, or legal actions arising shall be subject to the exclusive ¡urisdiction of the state and federal courts located within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Technical specifications

1. Models with drum breaks 1″ / 2 cm more
2. Total weight including tools, footrests and wheels
3. Minimum usable weight including wheels, excluding tools, footrests
4. Models with attendant brakes add 0.6 lbs. / 0.3 kg,
   • Models with drum brakes add 1.5 lbs. / 0.7 kg
     All values are approximate.

Specialist repairs and servicing

We recommend that you have your STRONGBACK 8/125/12 inspected by your specialist retailer at least once a year. In the event of malfunctions or defects, the wheelchair should be returned to the dealer for immediate rectification/repair. Upon request, you should provide the dealer with all the necessary information and documents for carrying out the renairs and maintenance Please use the following as a service record for vour wheelchair.

Servicing carried out by

Your specialist retailer

FAQ

• Q: What is the warranty period for the XYZ-123?
  • A: The warranty for the XYZ-123 is 1 year from the date of purchase.
• Q: Can the XYZ-123 be used for outdoor purposes?
  • A: No, the XYZ-123 is designed for indoor use only.
• Q: How often should I clean the XYZ-123?
  • A: It is recommended to clean the XYZ-123 after every use t maintain optimal performance.

CONTACT

International

• Strongback Mobility AG
• Firststrasse 3а
• 8835 Feusisberg / Schweiz
• +41 43 5415254
• info@strongbackmobility.com
• int.strongbackmobility.com

Europe

• Strongback Mobility Europe GmbH
• Erkrather Straße 401
• 40231 Düsseldorf / Germany
• +49 211-97633839
• info@strongbackmobility.de
• www.strongbackmobility.de

United States of Amerika

• Strongback Mobility USA
• 1317 Conrad Lane
• Virginia Beach, VA 23454 / USA
• + 1 (757)349-7790
• usa@strongbackmobility.com
• www.strongbackmobility.com

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