Types of wheelchair elevators

Wheelchair elevators come in variable shapes, sizes, functions as well as look and feel. Nevertheless, they all share the common purpose of        transporting wheelchair users vertically. The designs of wheelchair elevators have largely been influenced by many factors - space for installation, ease of use, price, travel distance and a dash of technology here and there. Therefore, several types of wheelchair elevators such as an inclined platform lift or a vertical platform lift can be installed inside or outside the building.

Inclined platform wheelchair elevators work well in buildings with staircases as they are constructed according to the angle and direction of the staircase. These types of wheelchair elevators are installed onto the side wall of the staircase or onto the rail itself. Then, the elevator can be folded up and kept away when not in use. Protective rails and a medium operational speed prevent the wheelchair user from suffering unwanted accidents. These elevators can also be custom-built for use in churches, schools, nursing homes and even restaurants. They are manufactured by companies such as Garaventa and National Wheel-O-Vator.

The vertical wheelchair elevator has a higher array of flexibility as compared to the inclined wheelchair elevator. As it moves vertically, this type of wheelchair elevator can be installed inside the building, as long as there is adequate space. Alternatively, it can be built outside with added protection from strong aluminium rails and transparent Plexiglass. Outdoor vertical wheelchair elevators provide users with a bigger advantage of cutting through the crowd and going straight to the level of their choice from the ground floor.

Wheelchair elevators have to be made according to guidelines set in the ADA or American with Disabilities Act regulations. Here, measurement and adjustment details are specified as they play a huge role in ensuring safety. One example of these rules include a space of 42 inches to allow a wheelchair user to make a full 180 degree turn easily and special sensors that stop the elevator’s movement upon meeting an obstruction. It is obvious that all these have been put into place to ensure the safety and comfort of wheelchair users.