The Costly Electric Wheelchair –IBOT

The iBOT is essentially a gyro-balanced mobility piece of equipment that is able to operate on two or four wheels and, can stabilize the user without manual interference as it adjusts itself to allow for shifts in weight. As compared to the average electric wheelchair’s price of approximately US$6500, the iBOT costs a whopping US$30,000 and, only those with money to spare can afford this marvel.

Choosing an electric wheelchair requires making sure that it be of a reputable make and, should be purchased from a licensed supplier to ensure that one gets complete back-up support. One should especially not purchase second-hand electric wheelchairs as they may have cracks in the frame or faulty batteries as well as worn out motors.

Propelling the electric wheelchair can vary as there are different modes such as rear wheel drives, mid-wheel drives, and front wheel drives. Rear wheel drives are most common and, though it makes the wheelchair move fast, it does not have good turning capability as compared to the other modes. Mid wheel driven wheelchairs are the best for turning though, they may be a bit unsteady when starting and stopping and, are not too suited for uneven surfaces. The front wheel driven wheelchair is slower but, steadier and, can also turn well.