Tag Archives: wheelchair lift

How to adapt your pre-owned vehicle to meet your needs after a stroke

VMi New England Wheelchair vans & ramp:Lift options
Easy Car Makeovers for Adaptive Driving

Driving after a stroke is often a major concern for survivor’s and their loved ones. It prompts many questions about ability, safety and vehicle options. Often times, the physical disadvantages that result from stroke can compromise a survivor’s ability to operate their vehicle.

Advances in the vehicle modification industry have introduced new driving controls that are giving independence back to stroke survivors that want to drive. They allow them to get back behind the wheel in their own vehicle to go where they want to go, when they want to go.

Innovative vehicle modifications such as hand controls, left-foot accelerators, lifts and mobility seating can transform your personal vehicle into a vehicle that give you more freedom.

Mobility equipment dealers strive to remain at the forefront of the vehicle modification industry by providing cutting-edge technology and a full selection of adaptable equipment for your pre-owned vehicle.


Hand Controls For Stroke Survivors with Limited Use of their Feet

Automotive Innovations is New England’s  #1 hand control installation facility  manufacturer of hand controls and driving aids for the disabled. Hand control systems are specifically designed to give drivers the benefit of controlling a vehicle with both hands on the wheel making for a safer, smoother driving experience.

Unlike other manual and or servo hand control installers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, we have the ability to offer a custom fitment to your vehicle and you, for everything from a Fiat 500 to a Lamborghini Aventador no one else has the master craftsman, machining equipment and facility capable of performing a custom installation the way we can.

Push Rock hand controls have a handle in a vertical position; accelerating by rocking back in an arching motion using the fingers and/or the palm. There are several additional options to choose from:

  • Spinner knob: Attached to the steering wheel to allow controlled steering with use of one hand.
  • Single Pin: As an alternative to the spinner knob, this hand control was designed for clients that cannot open their hand fully.
  • Tri Pin: Great for an independent driver. It requires minimal gripping strength and/or reduced wrist stability.
  • V-Grip: This attachment is intended for drivers with moderate gripping strength.
  • Steering Wheel Extension: This device is individually customizable, so you can pick a diameter and height that best suits your needs. The easily removable device is completely compatible with any OEM steering wheel.

Servo electronic mobility controls offers driving control products that are safe and provide piece of mind every time you are on the road.

  • Lever:  A gas/brake input with adjustable levels of force and travel from the full gas to the full brake position.
    • It is designed for customers that have a wider range of motion and a larger effort level.
  • One handed steering and gas brake:  A input that you can steer that is available in a two-axis configuration for gas/brake and steering It has a adjustable range of motion and very low levels  of force to operate.
    • It is designed and custom build for each customers specific range of motion and abilities.
  • Wheel:  A steering input that can be adjusted to less than 2 oz of force at the proper orthotic position of 3 3/8” from center.
    • It is also able to be adaptable for customers that have a wider range of motion.

Left-foot Accelerator

Automotive Innovations’ offers the best left foot gas pedals with unmatched installations.  Left-foot accelerators are designed to offer a left foot gas pedal which acts exactly like your vehicle’s existing gas pedal. Our Left foot gas pedals are removable with features like a quick-release base so the entire assembly can be removed and re-installed quickly and easily.

 

Lifts for Stroke Survivors that use Wheelchairs or Walkers
Automotive Innovations can offer more solutions for the transportation of your mobility device than any other dealership in New England.

“Its worth the drive, I live in the western part of Massachusetts and will never trust my van with anyone other than Automotive Innovations. They have been taking care of me and my vans since 1996. When a company comes through for you time and time again whats that worth? For me it’s priceless and the drive is irrelevant.”
– Chris P Whately, MA

  • Scooter & Wheelchair Lifts while not always practical they do work in all types of vehicles. These fold-down wheelchair and scooter lifts make lifting and storing your manual folding wheelchair or scooter possible.


Mobility Seating

The mobility transfer seat is an innovative system for lower vehicles which can provide easer  access to an automotive seat. The seat power rotates out over the doorsill, bridging the gap for a safe transfer onto the seat. These seats are not always practical for every type of vehicle

Our goal is to match your lifestyle and your vehicle with equipment that will deliver independence.


Finding a Dealer That’s Up to Standards

Hand controls, left-foot accelerator, lifts and mobility seating offers opportunities for the stroke survivor to regain their mobility freedom in their pre-owned vehicle. You have just found the best mobility dealer in all of New England that offers a ever evolving selection of adaptable equipment.

It is important to select a reputable dealer to provide the adaptable equipment and installation for your pre-owned vehicle.

  1. Are they members of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) or another organization that has vehicle conversion standards?
  2. Are they Quality Assurance Program (QAP) certified?
  3. Do they provide ongoing service and maintenance?
  4. Do they provide 24/7 emergency service?
  5. Do they provide training on the adaptable equipment?
  6. Can the equipment be transferred to a new vehicle in the future?

BraunAbility UVL Wheelchair Lift

BraunAbility UVL Wheelchair Lift
The BraunAbility UVL, or Under Vehicle Lift, provides an innovative solution to your personal mobility needs. The mobility lift is mounted underneath the full-size wheelchair accessible vehicle, and is virtually out of site and out of the way until use of the lift. This design creates more interior space with easier access into the vehicle for friends and family. The lift is activated by the standard hand-held or operational remote control, and with one click of the button, the lift smoothly deploys from the underneath the vehicle. With its simple and smooth design, deploying and retracting your lift will come with ease and enjoyment as you enter and exit your wheelchair accessible vehicle.

The UVL van lift’s safety features include a slip-resistant platform, automatic rollstop and an integrated manual backup system which allows you to safely get on and off the ramp. Your mobility freedom is just a push of the button away with the BraunAbility UVL van lift!

Specifications:

  • Lifting Capacity: 750 lbs.
  • Weight: 365 lbs.
  • Platform width: 31″
  • Platform Length: 48″ and 53″

Ricon S-Series Commercial Platform Wheelchair Lift

Ricon S-Series Commercial Platform Wheelchair Lift
Ricon S-Series handicap platform lifts from Vantage Mobility International offer a wide variety of unique features that ensure efficient, safe, and comfortable travel in commercial wheelchair transport applications.

Whether for a bus, shuttle van, or ambulate, the S-Series line of platform mobility lifts utilizes a compact but sturdy design that integrates standee handrails and occupant safety belts. In short, the Ricon S-Series commercial lifts are perfect for any business looking for more wheelchair access.

Standard Features

  • ADA Compliant
  • Compact Design
  • Mechanical Inboard and Outboard Rollstops
  • Sto-Lok Technology
  • Stainless Steel Fittings
  • Lubrication Free Bearings

Ricon UNI-Lite Platform Wheelchair Lift

Ricon UNI-Lite Platform Wheelchair Lift
The Ricon UNI-lite platform handicap lift offers two distinct advantages over competing models on the marketplace. First, the UNI-lite is a lightweight electric mobility lift (other lifts are commonly hydraulic powered). Second, the UNI-lite is constructed of lightweight aluminum, creating less wear and tear on the suspension in a wheelchair van.

Like all VMI platform wheelchair lifts, the UNI-lite combines strength and reliability with features that provide convenience and easy use.

The affordable Ricon UNI-lite handicap lift is one of the lightest, smoothest, and quietest mobility platform lifts in the world. This is due to its lightweight aluminum construction and electric powered operation. The UNI-lite also includes some important safety and convenience features. Rollstops prevent a wheelchair or scooter from inadvertently rolling off the handicap platform lift while in use. Control switches are conveniently located on the handrails, so operating the lift is easy and simple.

Specifications
UL 2400-1

  • Stationary Frame Width – 37″
  • Lift Height – 47″-57″
  • Folded Installation Depth – 11.5″
  • Usable Platform Width – 26″
  • Usable Platform Length – 36″
  • Step-well Floor To Ground Travel – NA
  • Flat Floor To Ground Travel – 24″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 31″
  • Clear Entry Height – 44″-54″
  • Folded Floor To End Of Platform – 41″
  • Base Plate Width – 33.5″

UL 2806-2

  • Stationary Frame Width – 40″
  • Lift Height – 50″-57″
  • Folded Installation Depth – 11.5″
  • Usable Platform Width – 29″
  • Usable Platform Length – 40″
  • Step-well Floor To Ground Travel – 30″
  • Flat Floor To Ground Travel – 28″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 34″
  • Clear Entry Height – 47″-54″
  • Folded Floor To End Of Platform – 45″
  • Base Plate Width – 36.5″

UL 7808-2

  • Stationary Frame Width – 40″
  • Lift Height – 50″-57″
  • Folded Installation Depth – 11.5″
  • Usable Platform Width – 29″
  • Usable Platform Length – 44″
  • Step-well Floor To Ground Travel – 30″
  • Flat Floor To Ground Travel – 28″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 34″
  • Clear Entry Height – 47″-54″
  • Folded Floor To End Of Platform – 50″
  • Base Plate Width – 36.5″

Standard Features

  • Lightweight Aluminum Construction
  • Powerful, Quiet Electric Motor
  • Powered Rollstop
  • Smooth, Strong Operation
  • Adjustable to Fit Most Doors
  • Compact with Large Platform

UL 2810-2

  • Stationary Frame Width – 43″
  • Lift Height – 50″-57″
  • Folded Installation Depth – 11.5″
  • Usable Platform Width – 32″
  • Usable Platform Length – 40″
  • Step-well Floor To Ground Travel – 30″
  • Flat Floor To Ground Travel – 28″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 37″
  • Clear Entry Height – 47″-54″
  • Folded Floor To End Of Platform – 45″
  • Base Plate Width – 36.5″
  • UL 2808-3
  • Stationary Frame Width – 40″
  • Lift Height – 59″-65″
  • Folded Installation Depth – 11.5″
  • Usable Platform Width – 29″
  • Usable Platform Length – 44″
  • Step-well Floor To Ground Travel – 30″
  • Flat Floor To Ground Travel – 28″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 34″
  • Clear Entry Height – 56″-62″
  • Folded Floor To End Of Platform – 50″
  • Base Plate Width – 36.5″

UL 2910-3

  • Stationary Frame Width – 43″
  • Lift Height – 59″-65″
  • Folded Installation Depth – 11.5″
  • Usable Platform Width – 32″
  • Usable Platform Length – 40″
  • Step-well Floor To Ground Travel – 30″
  • Flat Floor To Ground Travel – 28″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 37″
  • Clear Entry Height – 56″-62″
  • Folded Floor To End Of Platform – 45″
  • Base Plate Width – 39.5″

Optional Features

  • Remote Control
  • Power Swing Door Operators
  • Power Sliding Door Operators
  • Different Dimensions for Models U6-2636, U6-2639, U6-2644, U6-2940, U6-2944, U6-3240, U6-3244, U6-2940T, U6-2944T, U6-3240T, U6-3244T

Ricon Reliant Platform Wheelchair Lift

Ricon Reliant Platform Wheelchair Lift

The Ricon Reliant wheelchair platform lift features a trim and compact design that allows maximum interior space. These platform handicap lifts also feature an all steel frame and hydraulic pump for reliability that lasts for years.

Ricon Reliant mobility lifts utilize the latest in engineering and manufacturing techniques like no-lube bearings at all major pivot points and Sto-Lok technology for a quiet ride.

Reliant platform wheelchair lifts are very simple to operate thanks to features like automatic rollstops, a non-skid platform, and handrails with on-board switches.

Specifications
S1100-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 47″
  • Folded Height – 40.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 30″
  • Usable Platform Length – 44″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 27″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 37.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 31″

S1101-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 47″
  • Folded Height – 40.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 30″
  • Usable Platform Length – 38″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 27″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 37.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 31″

S1200-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 47″
  • Folded Height – 46.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 30″
  • Usable Platform Length – 44″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 31″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 37.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 31″

S1203-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 47″
  • Folded Height – 46.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 30″
  • Usable Platform Length – 51″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 31″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 37.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 31″

Standard Features

  • Compact Design
  • Solid Wheelchair Lift Platform
  • Automatic Rollstops
  • Welded All Steel Frame
  • Non-Skid Platform
  • Permanent No-Lube Bearings
  • Built-in Manual Backup System

S1204-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 49″
  • Folded Height – 46.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 32″
  • Usable Platform Length – 44″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 31″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 39.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 33″

S1205-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 49″
  • Folded Height – 46.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 32″
  • Usable Platform Length – 51″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 31″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 39.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 33″

S1207-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 47″
  • Folded Height – 46.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 30″
  • Usable Platform Length – 48″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 31″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 37.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 31″

S1208-P

  • Stationary Frame Width – 49″
  • Folded Height – 46.5″
  • Installed Depth – 14″
  • Usable Platform Width – 32″
  • Usable Platform Length – 48″
  • Floor To Ground Travel – 31″
  • Traveling Frame Width – 39.5″
  • Clear Entry Width – 33″

Optional Features

  • Remote Control
  • Power Swing Door Operators
  • Power Sliding Door Operators
  • Different Dimensions for Models S1100-P, S1101-P, S1200-P, S1203-P, S1204-P, S1205-P, S1207-P, and S1208-P