Mobility scooters have come a long way from their ancestor

Article Written By: Michiel Van Kets

The modern wheelchair, is not far from its 18th century predecessor. It was built with 2 large front wheels and one small wheel in the back. As the design progressed, wheelchairs were made with wood and wicker. The first folding wheelchair was made using steel and designed by a duo whose one member had been crippled in a mining accident. We still see these today, although they are lighter, hardier and easier to use.

The folding wheelchair was a great leap in assisted-mobility design, but not all disabled individuals were able to use them. After WW2, many surviving soldiers suffered from spinal injury, which meant that quite a number of them were unable to maneuver their wheelchairs on their own. With the cooperative efforts of engineers, soldiers and war veterans who suffered such a plight, the first motorized wheelchair was invented. This was considered a first for engineered rehabilitation!

Today there are many versions of the wheelchair, both motorized and manual; built for different uses, terrains and physical requirements. To make it more versatile, aluminium, titanium or even carbon fiber is used instead of iron or steel. Also available are posture-molded designs, athletic-influenced designs, even designs that allow the user to manipulate over curbs, small objects or uneven terrain.

The invention and innovative progression of the wheelchair have paved the way for more sophisticated forms of independent aided-mobility, such as the standing wheelchair for use in a sitting or standing position; the bariatric wheelchair for individuals weighing over 250 pounds; the knee scooter for those who suffer from leg injuries below the knee; athletic powerchairs for various sports, including basketball and soccer; and recently the handcycle, related to the wheelchair and modeled after the mountain bike.

But during all these advancements with the wheelchair, another device was given life in the 60's and continues to progress and improve in design today. It is the motorized scooter. Although it is not as flexible as the wheelchair: it cannot be pulled up to a table, it cannot be folded and stowed away and it cannot be used by individuals who are unable to stand up and walk on their own.

Although not as flexible in usage as the wheelchair, it allows the user to travel faster and at longer distances, for longer periods. It can travel over all kinds of terrain – even over muddy, bumpy farmland! One such mobility vehicle is the TGA Breeze. Designed with the latest electronic control options, an adjustable seat, all-wheel adjustable suspension – even while on the move, brakes, illuminating and indicator lights.

It is elevated enough for ground clearance, but not too high to make it difficult to get into. It runs on battery power and is easy to charge. It can travel at speeds of up to 8mph. Front and rear baskets are standard. The scooter is built for absolute safety and ease of maneuverability. Users can have the option of left-hand geared controls, along with the regular right-hand version.

About the Author

Michiel Van Kets - ValueMobility.co.uk, a retailer of high value Mobility Scooters such as TGA Breeze.

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