WHEEL SYSTEMS

Most products manufactured by ABCO Health Care incorporate a wheel system for ease of positioning and relocating.

There are two general types:

Single action retractable castors

This system allows for the most stable positioning during use as the couch is supported directly on the floor with no movement from the wheel mechanism.

Four small castors are engaged simply by pressing on the foot bar at one end of the couch or chair to lift it clear of the floor. When the couch is lifted on the castors it can be moved in any direction or rotated where it is.

These castors are not suitable for moving the couch with a person on it.

Braked castors

These are used where there is a need for routine movement of the couch with a person on it.

Each castor has an individual brake [three for total locking, one for 'tracking' lock to help control the direction of the couch during movement].

The rotating mechanism in the wheels cannot be completely locked and this can lead to instability during use of the couch [generally more of a problem with manipulation therapies].

The standard 125mm braked castor allows 155mm of clearance below the couch base which is suitable for most patient hoists.

Last modified: February 15, 2010