Image Source: https://www.oldmateelevators.com.au/limited-mobility/
One of the best innovations that science and technology have given us is the lifts and elevators. They have become a boon for people with disabilities and elderly people by allowing them to access the upper floors and areas that were inaccessible and impossible to reach. One of these lift types is the inclined wheelchair lift which stands out due to its simple design and easy operation.
These lifts are ideal for floor-to-floor use in both straight and curved structures. Understanding the operation of inclined wheelchair lifts is helpful for those planning to install them. The good news is that the installation process is pretty simple and easy to understand. Let us quickly review some details of how an inclined wheelchair lift operates.
WITH A MOTOR
The main operation begins with the motor that moves the platform on the track. Most inclined platform lifts come with a battery backup, and they charge continually to act as a backup during a power outage. The design is entirely motor-powered, and this is an advantage for the building owner, as he will not have to arrange a separate machine room. This also makes installation direct and less time-consuming.
WITH A RAIL AND PLATFORM
The framework of inclined platform lifts has two key components apart from the motor. One of them is the platform, designed to fold down and open once the user has reached the destination. Platforms are often textured to improve friction, and a small ramp is also attached to allow easy and smooth entry and exit.
The second component is the rail, i.e. made of steel or aluminium. Its role is to move the platform from one floor to another, and it is also attached to the automatic braking system. This ensures that the lift stops when it has reached its destination.
SAFETY FEATURES OF INCLINED WHEELCHAIR LIFTS
Every lift, including inclined wheelchair lifts and traction elevator, has a plethora of safety features. Yes, the features are not the same in different lifts, but some common safety features are present to make travel safe for the user. While getting an inclined wheelchair lift installed at your home, you must look for the following features.
STANDARD FEATURES
8 fpm rated speed
Screw drive system
Standard platform of 34″ w by 54″ deep
42″ high side guard panels
Travel capability of up to 6 feet
No pit required
Emergency manual lowering
Anti-skid surface on the platform floor
16″ automatic access ramp
Safety under-panel sensor to detect objects in the downward path
Constant pressure up/down buttons
Emergency stop button
Easy installation
115v AC operation
Some optional features that must be built into inclined wheelchair lifts are listed below.
OPTIONAL FEATURES
Keyed call/send stations
The emergency alarm on the car
Landing gates or landing doors
Public building package
12v DC battery operation