Category Archives: Hand controls

Hand controls for wheelchair van and vehicle users in New England, Boston MA

The annual hoopla for Presidents’ Day car sales is in full swing

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Presidents Day Sale Wheelchair van

New England Wheelchair Van Presidents Day Sale

The annual hoopla for Presidents Day wheelchair van sales is in full swing in Bridgewater where every day is an Abilities Expo. But just when did the holiday become synonymous with automotive selling extravaganzas? And why?

The tradition, at least locally, started about a century ago, when entrepreneurial car dealer Alvan T. Fuller held a Washington’s Birthday “open house” to promote sales of Cadillacs and Packards at his car emporium on Commonwealth Avenue. Sending out invitations to potential customers, he apparently posted signs reading “Washington’s Birthday Holiday. Open. Come on in”, according to archived Globe stories.

The tactic worked wonders. By the 1920s, Fuller’s once-struggling business “was recognized as the world’s most successful auto dealership,” according to his biography on the state’s official website, mass.gov. Fuller, who later became governor, is also famous for sending Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti to the electric chair.

Interestingly, those inaugural holiday sales events were a lot like the ones we see today, as dealers competed with bands, cherry pie, free coffee, balloons and all sorts of gimmicks, according to John White, the Globe’s auto writer emeritus. And their popularity apparently waned little over the decades. Fuller’s 1958 Globe obituary hailed him as sole creator of an endearing, local tradition.

“Alvan T. Fuller, who built Malden bicycle repair shop into an automobile agency fortune, inaugurated the Washington’s birthday display of new autos in an effort to boost sales after erecting ‘Fuller’s Folly,’ his agency on Commonwealth Ave.

His promotion soon was copied by other dealers and today is a highlight of the holiday in Greater Boston area.

Whether Fuller’s idea was the template for Presidents’ Day sales across the country is hard to say.

Presidents Day weekend is ideal for sales pushes, he said, because it falls at the right time of the year for car dealers to launch their new spring lines. Since many have the day off from work — and there are no parades, parties or football games to attend — customers have extra time to peruse car lots. And by mid-February, most of winter’s nastiest weather is usually over, so people are more apt to drive around for deals.

No one can say for sure when car sales across the country got pegged to Presidents Day, one might guess it happened not long after the holiday was fixed to the third Monday of the month in 1971. (Before then, we celebrated Washington’s birthday on Feb. 22.)

The National Automobile Dealers Association, based in McLean, Virginia, wasn’t behind the push,  Local dealerships like Fuller’s led the way.

Presidents Day WHEELCHAIR VAN SALES EVENT

Reduced and no effort Advanced Quadriplegic and Paraplegic Driving Controls

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We have installed Advanced Driving Controls, or “High-Tech Driving Systems”, creating options for wheelchair drivers with higher levels of disability for over 25 years. Our driving controls are truly a custom mobility solution for todays quadriplegic driver. As a result, the key components of these systems are combined, fitted and installed based on an extremely thorough process developed over decades of evaluation, prescriptions and fine-tuning experience.

We have installed quadriplegic assistive driving controls and adaptive mobility devices for individuals with disabilities with more severe higher levels of injury that require more sophisticated types of assistive technology to enable them to drive safely in hundreds of vehicles.
The mobility driving controls and technologies we install have been accepted by the Federal Veterans Administration Agency for sale and distribution throughout the United States.

We are a leading installer of adaptive driving systems in the New England Area. Automotive Innovations offers an electro-mechanical driving system that gives people with disabilities an opportunity to drive.
We believe independence is an important part of life, which is why we strive to build the best Adaptive Mobility vans on the market.

A quad servo driving systems can be installed into almost any vehicle. We can install systems into anything from a Lamborghini to a Ford. We always tailor our driving systems to meet the Independent needs of the individual. Each of our vans is designed for a specific individual and there adaptive mobility equipment needs.

Servo driving systems are designed with our customers in mind. All secondary controls (i.e.. heating, AC, windows) are on touch pads or toggle switch consoles that are within inches of your hands so they are easily accessible. The steering can be a zero effort, reduced-effort or servo steering system. This allows our customers the ability to make turns with very little effort. The Gas and Brake system is also a hand-controlled function, which is built custom for each customer’s unique needs.

Automotive Innovations has a long history of providing adaptive vehicle mobility solutions and modifications for quadriplegic drivers.

We install a variety of primary driving control options designed to operate the gas, brake and steering controls of a motor vehicle. In years past, we developed a number of independent driving systems such as the popular Electronic Gas Brake, Servo Steering, and Joystick steering.

Primary driving control system provides low-effort control and mobility solutions for your specific requirements to operate the factory gas, brake, and steering controls. A variety of unique interfaces to the control system are available and can be mounted nearly anywhere in the driver’s area of the vehicle. These “input devices,” as they are called, have the look and feel of factory driving controls, but are designed specifically for the purpose of maximizing your abilities.

Servo steering and servo gas brake utilizes a sophisticated design to convert your limited mechanical input into the ability to manipulate the factory gas and brake pedals and or the factory steering column. Whether you require just gas and brakes, or just steering, or gas, brakes, and steering, Automotive Innovations Bridgewater, MA has adaptive mobility equipment solutions for you!

Reduced Effort Modifications

Reduced effort steering systems. All the modifications that are done in Bridgewater, MA are used in conjunction with hand controls and other accessible adaptations to reduce the physical strength required to perform the operations of braking and steering. Reduced effort braking and reduced effort steering are modification packages that make the steering wheel or brake pedal easier to turn or push. The level of assistance or “reduced-effort” is adjusted to the level prescribed by the driver rehabilitation specialist, based on the strength of the driver.

Reduced Effort Steering

Reduced Effort Steering modification to steering boxes and steering racks are available for most all American vans and most cars with factory power steering. Standard factory power steering requires approximately 40 ounces of effort to operate. Steering modifications can reduce the required effort to 20-24 ounces (low effort) or 6-8 ounces (no effort). (These statistics will vary depending on model of car and tire size)

Reduced effort steering modification reduces the amount of effort it takes to move a steering wheel. There is low effort to no effort available depending on the model of car and tire size.

Low effort and no effort braking modifications significantly reduces the required pressure needed to press down on a pedal to brake.

Backup Steering Systems

Emergency power assisted steering if factory power steering system fails. Test circuits are provided which enable customers to check system prior to driving. Audio and visual alarms alert driver to factory power steering failure–backup system instantaneously activates. Does not require low or no effort steering modification.

Custom Steering Column Extensions

We install custom steering systems, columns, and extensions.

Foot Steering Systems
For those customers without arms or the use of them, the foot steering system is usually combined with sensitized steering and adaptations for other dash controls. Automotive Innovations understands that most items concerning foot controlled steering need to be customized and built to and individuals specific needs.
Automotive Innovations Bridgewater, MA can install your custom foot steering system. Call us today 508-697-6006 and speak with one of our mobility experts.  We recommend mid- to full-sized American cars and some minivans for this modification.

Servo Hand Controls

Gas Brake Hand Controls in the advanced driving aid category are of course more advanced and are typically for individuals with very limited mobility and strength for operating a vehicle. A slight touch of various adaptive devices allow the car to accelerate and brake with ease.
Electric Gas and Brakes are operated from an electric servo in the form of a joystick, Tri-Pin or lever input device. Individuals can then use their hands to control their speed and to brake.

Servo Steering Controls

Servo steering allows the steering control to be located almost anywhere to assist the operator and can be fitted with a miniature or small steering wheel.

Horizontal Steering Systems

Horizontal Steering System accommodates a limited range of motion when the driver cannot use a conventional steering wheel.

The horizontal steering system is customized to meet the needs of those with high-level spinal cord injuries and all others who experience limited arm strength and range of motion. It is usually used in conjunction with our servo hand controls.

Wheelchair Van Secondary Driving Controls

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Secondary Driving Controls
Here are the options for Secondary Driving Controls that we offer:

  • Ignition Starting
  • Lights Turn Signals/Hazards
  • Horn/Dimmer
  • Wipers | Cruise On/Set
  • Windows Locks
  • Electric Park Brake
  • Electric Shift
  • Left and Right Power Mirror Control

Crescent Industries Voice Scan Controls
The operation is simple:

Step 1 – Activate the scan by pushing the switch.
Step 2 – When the desired function is heard, activate the switch again and the function begins!!

Activate the switch and a voice (yours if you like) announces the functions. When the desired function is heard, activate the switch again to select the function. VoiceScan can be programmed in either one or two channel mode. The one channel mode allows all functions to be operated from a single switch, while the two channel mode allows for two priority functions. In either mode, VoiceScan can control up to 16 functions. Voice Scan is field programmable-it can be customized at your shop! And, like our Touch Pads and Elbow Pads, VoiceScan can be used with any vehicle function.

16 button pad
The Command 16 system builds on proven technology in adaptive driving while providing high reliability. It’s progressive modular design provides ease of installation and customization. The Command 16 consists of three components: the console, the vehicle interface, and the relay packs. The Command 16 can be configures to control any device and will fit any vehicle.
Quick and Simple Installation
Installation is simply a matter of installing the relay packs, mounting the console, and plugging the system together.
Custom and Versatile
The Command 16 can control any function in any vehicle and is back-lit for night time operation.

4 button pad
A four switch Elbow Console that contains four mechanical switches. The Command 4 can be any four functions of your choice. Common configurations are turn signals, horn and dimmer, or turn signals and wipers.

Remote Controls
We have remote controls for all lifts including:

  • Ricon
  • Crow River
  • Crow River Vangater II
  • Braun
  • I.M.S.

Remotes come standard with magnetic entry, but may be ordered with any combination of remote, magnetic entry, and front station. Stand alone magnetic entry systems are also available for all lifts.

Electronic Gear Selection
Electronic Gear Selection allows the operator to push a button for a gear selection.

Voice Scan installed using one to two targets or buttons to operate a multitude of functions within the vehicle while utilizing a verbal audible menu with advanced remote accessory controls including single touch and voice scan. The products are reliable and easily serviced, including a warranty that commits to customer satisfaction

Safe, Simple and Rugged. OEM Steering Wheel may remain in all vehicles, if placement of the servo steering wheel permits. Backup Power Steering System allows the user to steer if the engine shuts off, and is automatic. Customized orthotic adaptations and adjustable force and feedback are available to suit each application. Reduced-effort or Zero-effort force used to steer.

EGS Electric Gear Shifter Directly attaches to the OEM shifter hardware. Utilizes the OEM transmission control display on the vehicle’s dash. Activated through several switching options.

Electronic Park Brake
Electric parking brake system offers enough torque to stop your vehicle when parking in steep areas or in an emergency situation. Activated through several switching options and can be located in any area that is most accessible to the user’s range of motion.

We are committed to coming up with new and innovative mobility solutions to meet your adaptive mobility equipment needs in the New England Area!

Our electronic mobility controls have been enabling consumers in the New England Area with the ability to have a safe and independent driving system for more than 20 years

We build quality long lasting electric mobility driving controls, our servo steering, electronic gas and brake devices and other adaptive mobility equipment have been exceeding the expectations of consumers in the New England area for more than two decades.

Sure-Grip Mechanical Hand Controls

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Easyspin RF 360 – New
The Easyspin RF360 utilizes precise radio frequencies to operate up to 6 secondary functions wirelessly from the stylish and ergonomic spinner.

The Spinmaster spinner knob and Easyspin indicator system have been the standard in one-handed steering for more than a decade but our drive to improve and refine led us to supersede these proven performers. While inheriting the distinctive characteristics of its predecessors; featuring durable construction, smooth and reliable operation, and quick release mechanism, as well as the original and unique Spinmaster steering wheel clamp, the Easyspin RF360 ups the ante with its own innovative features.

Suits Any Vehicle Wiring Configuration
The standard configuration for the Easyspin RF360, VAC6, can include up to 6 vehicle accessory controls in only one mode of operation.

With 6 functions you can cover operation of all frequently used accessories such as:

  • Indicators
  • Headlights
  • Horn
  • Washers and
  • Sequential wipers.

You can also control non-essential vehicle accessories such as:

  • Electric windows
  • Tiptronic gear shifting
  • Cruise control and
  • Integrated phone controls while maintaining quick access to those frequently used accessories.

The user can alter the button configuration at any time to suit their needs. Simultaneously holding two buttons for a couple of seconds will instantly swap their functions. Any button, any function, total flexibility.

The design of the Easyspin RF360 with its integrated buttons and unique hammerhead shape has been created specifically to fit your hand’s ergonomics. It didn’t happen by accident, over 18 months were spent undertaking research, development and testing with designers, occupational therapists and clients. It also features a soft rubber overlay grip for your comfort.

Features:

  • Ergonomic shape and soft overlay rubber grip for your comfort
  • Operate up to 6 functions
  • Supported by the world renowned Spinmaster steering wheel clamp, known for providing superior durability and gripping strength without damaging your steering wheel
  • Features a quick release function so that it may be removed at any time with the press of a button, allowing unrestricted access for other drivers
  • Strong, robust design, constructed from heavy-duty mining-grade injection molded glass filled UV resistant nylon to withstand years of regular use
  • 2 years battery life with LED low battery warning light, easily accessed battery slide and life-extending sleep mode
  • Mechanical Hand Controls

Push/Rock
The original and the best, the Sure Grip Push/Rock system, has become known for its comfort, precision and overall safety.

Unlike other hand controls styles, the push/rock system puts the operating handle in a vertical position; the driver eases the handle back to accelerate and pushes forward to brake. This unique rocking motion allows full-range braking and acceleration with minimal hand travel while keeping the hand in a natural position.

Sure Grip’s Push/Rock controls are known for having the easiest gas in the industry today thus, allowing for hours of fatigue free driving. The push/rock style will give you the driving experience you have been longing for.

Sure Grip hand control designs prevents contact with legs or knees at higher speeds. The upright handle also allows the installation of controls in smaller vehicles or tight spaces other controls would not fit. Controls do not impede pedal use.

Push/Pull

The Sure Grip Push/Pull hand control uses the same movement to apply the gas and brake as other Push/Pull controls; however the pivot point for the Sure Grip control is on the left-hand side of the wheel close to the handle, this allows for a shorter stroke and greater leverage. In addition to the pivot point, the handles position is at a slight angle, an angle that makes a big difference to the driver. The benefits of Sure Grip’s unique Push/Pull hand control design include:
Less strain on fingers and thumb
Flexible hand positions for lower fatigue and cramping while driving
The ability for both hands to keep contact with the steering wheel
In addition to the benefits enjoyed as a result of the handle and its position, drivers will also appreciate the other features that Sure Grip’s Push/Pull offers including:
Superior pedal feel, with constant acceleration and no “dead spots”
Limited modifications to the vehicles dash

Push/Right Angle
Unlike other Push Right/Angle controls, the Sure Grip Push Right/Angle’s body doesn’t pivot or move when the accelerator is applied. The pivot point for the Sure Grip control is on the left-hand side of the wheel, and only the handle pivots. A stationary main body has many benefits for the driver including:

Increased leg room for getting in and out of the vehicle, as many installs allow brake rod to pass through the dash
Full acceleration without the control hitting the drivers lap
Greater two-handed contact with the steering wheel due to the shortened stroke of the handle
In addition to the benefits enjoyed as a result of the stationary main body, drivers will also appreciate the other features that Sure Grip’s Push Right/Angle offers including:

Superior pedal feel, with constant acceleration and no “dead spots”

  • Lower fatigue while driving
  • Limited modifications to the vehicles dash

Push/Twist
Pivot Point
The Sure Grip Push/Twist control uses the same motorcycle style acceleration as other Push/Twist controls, but has an auxiliary handle that makes the twisting motion easier and allows for longer, more comfortable driving.

  • In addition to the unique benefits enjoyed with our other hand controls, such as increased leg room and ease of use, drivers will also appreciate the other features that the Sure Grip Push/Twist offers including:
  • Superior pedal feel, with constant acceleration and no “dead spots”
  • Lower fatigue while driving
  • Limited modifications to the vehicles dash
  • Easier braking

AutoLock is an accelerator lock out device that comes standard on all of Sure Grip’s hand controls, and is an added safety feature for the driver or those that share the vehicle. With the push of a button or knob, the accelerator function of the hand control can be disabled and help prevent accidents through misuse of the control by mechanics, valets or any other unqualified user. Autolock is available in both electronic and manual formats.

Sure Grip Recreation
Sure Grip hand control users now have the option of adding the Push/Rock style of driving to their favorite recreation vehicles. Sure Grip has developed easy installation applications for many of the nation’s top selling side-by-sides, go carts and golf carts.

The Handling You Need 

Sure Grip has always given its users great control of their vehicles. Now that Sure Grip has hand controls designed specifically for smaller off-road vehicles that same control can be enjoyed wherever you decide to go.
Unlike other hand controls Sure Grip’s handle is in the vertical position, which gives precision control and the ability to drive with both hands on the wheel. With two hands on the wheel, drivers have the control needed when headed off the beaten path.