Batteries, Charging And Range; Batteries - Sunrise Medical QUICKIE Q500 M General Manual

6.0 Batteries, charging and range

6.1 Batteries

Batteries are the power source for almost all of the modern ̀
mobility products available today. The design of batteries
used in mobility products is significantly different to the
batteries used to start a car for example. Car batteries are
designed to release a large amount of power over a short
period of time, while mobility batteries (commonly called
deep cycle batteries) release their power evenly, over a long
period of time. Therefore, due to the lower production
volumes and increased technological requirements, mobility
batteries are typically more expensive.
Commonly two 12 volt batteries are used together in a
mobility product, giving a total voltage of 24 volts. The size of
the battery (e.g. its available power) is expressed in amps per ̀
hour e.g. 70amp/hr. The higher the number, the bigger the
battery size, weight and, potentially, the greater the distance
you can travel. Sunrise Medical only uses standard
maintenance free batteries into these types of wheelchairs.
This type of battery uses a method of carrying the electrolyte
commonly referred to as 'gel', that is held within the battery
case. As the name implies, no maintenance is required other
than regular charging. You can safely transport this type of
battery without fear of acid spilling. Furthermore, they are
approved for transportation on aircraft, trains, and ships.
CAUTION!
• Do not fit car batteries to the wheelchair. Fit only deep
cycle, maintenance free mobility batteries.
• When the batteries are worn out, take them to the local
authority disposal point.
• Return the batteries directly to the battery manufacturer
for recycling, when they no longer hold a charge.
• The battery terminals need to be checked regularly for
signs of corrosion. If any corrosion is apparent, clean the
terminals completely and apply petroleum jelly or silicone
grease to the terminal. Do not use ordinary grease. Ensure
that the terminal nut and bolt, cable clip, and exposed
cable are completely covered with petroleum jelly or
silicone grease.
DANGER!
• Do not expose any part of the battery to direct heat (i.e.
naked flame, gas fire).
• Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal
tool onto the battery. It could spark or short circuit the
battery or other electrical parts that may cause an
explosion. Also take off all personal metal effects and
dangling objects when working on the battery.
Q500M/Q400M General Manual
BATT 1
POS
BATT 2
POS
DANGER!
• Do not, under any circumstances, tamper with the batteries.
If in any doubt contact your local Sunrise Medical authorized
dealer.
• Avoid contact with acid on damaged sealed type batteries or
wet batteries.
• Battery acid can cause burns to the skin as well as damage to
floors, furniture and your wheelchair.
• If battery acid comes into contact with the skin or clothing,
wash immediately with soap and water.
• If battery acid comes into contact with the eye, immediately
flood the eye with running cold water for at least 10 minutes
and seek medical attention immediately.
• Acid spills can be neutralized with baking soda and water.
• Take care to keep batteries upright at all times, especially
when transporting your wheelchair.
Safety cut-outs
In the event of a short circuit there are several safety systems
built into your wheelchair to safeguard your electrical circuits
(Fig. 6.1).
1. Fusible 100A links are connected into the battery harnesses
to protect the batteries and ̀ w iring.
2. 15A auxiliary power circuit fuses for auxiliary modules.
To replace them contact your Sunrise Medical authorized
dealer, who will also diagnose the original fault.
18
AUX.
15A
BATT 1
NEG
BATT 2
NEG
100A
Fig. 6.1
248035 Rev. G