 On this page:
Demonstrations
The best way to find out more about the Smart Wheelchair is to arrange for a demonstration from its developers The CALL Centre, or from its manufacturer Smile Rehab Ltd, Ability House, New Greenham Park, Newbury, Berkshire RG19 6HN, U.K. Tel:(0)1635 37550 Fax:(0)1635 250995 Email: info@smilerehab.com Website: www.smilerehab.com
CALL Centre has books, a video and research reports describing how the Smart Wheelchairs have been evaluated and used in schools. CALL Centre also has two chairs available for loan from its Loan Bank (demand is high, however).
Training and Support
CALL and Smile Rehab provide full training and support with each chair. As well as giving a thorough introduction to the system and how it can be used, we can also help you get started with setting up switches and controls for users. Smile Rehab can also advise and, if necessary, provide specialised seating.
The existing Tools are always being improved. Software updates are free for one year and a nominal charge is made thereafter. We are hoping to develop sensing systems for detecting obstacles at a distance. It is also possible to buy Smart Wheelchair components for fitting to your own wheelchair.
Cost
The cost of a complete system with all the ‘tools’, 50 yards of line follower tape, one year warranty and two days training and installation is £7,700. Seating and controls are extra.
Delivery
The Smart Wheelchairs are now shipping. They have been improved to meet new European Commission regulations, and the first batch of ten were delivered in April 2000.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Tests
For those who are interested in these things, the Smart Wheelchair has been officially tested and approved for Electromagnetic compatibility. Photo 1 shows the emissions from the chair being measured, while in Photo 2 it is being zapped with large amounts of electromagnetic radiation, and remaining entirely unphased by the experience.
Photo 1 - The Chair undergoing emission tests
Photo 2 - The Chair survives blasts of electromagnetic radiation
|
