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59 Issue 7
Batteries and charging
The range of your vehicle
Most manufacturers of mobility products
state the range of their vehicles either in
the sales literature or within the Owners
Manual. The range stated sometimes
differs from manufacturer to manufacturer
even though the battery size is the same.
Sunrise Medical measure the range of
their vehicles in a consistent and uniform
manner, but variances still occur due to
motor efficiencies and overall product load
weight.
The range figures are calculated to I.S.O.
Standard 7176. Part 4: Wheelchair
Energy Consumption Theoretical
Range.
This test is carried out in controlled
conditions with new, fully charged
batteries, on a level test surface and a
user weight of 75 kg. The range figures
stated should be seen as a theoretical
maximum and could be reduced if any
single, or combination, of the following
circumstances occur:
1. User weight heavier than 75 kg.
2. Batteries whose age and condition are
less than perfect.
3. The terrain is difficult e.g. very hilly,
sloping, muddy ground, gravel, grass,
snow and ice.
4. The vehicle climbs kerbs regularly.
5. The ambient temperature is very hot
or very cold.
6. Incorrect tyre pressures in one or more
tyres.
7. The use of powered options (tilt, recline,
riser, lights etc).
8. Lots of start/stop driving.
Myths and legends
Over the years, battery technology has
moved forward but, unfortunately, some of
the advice given on battery care has not.
This has resulted in a number of confused
and at times contradictory instructions on
the ‘best’ way to care for your batteries.
This section will help to dispel some of these
myths and legends.
1. Batteries can be charged immediately
after use. You do not need to allow them
to cool prior to charging.
2. Mobility batteries do not develop a
memory from using a repetitive charge
and discharge cycle. This only applies
to nickel cadmium batteries commonly
found in products such as camcorders.
3. Batteries when new do not require any
special attention with regard to their
charge and discharge cycle. Following
the relevant ‘care plan’ is the best advice
we can give.
9. Also thick pile carpets within the home
can affect range.
All this technical information may seem
complicated and a little daunting, but
please remember, that the battery sizes
available on each Sunrise Medical
product should give sufficient range to
cope with the majority of customer’s
lifestyles.