Vermeiren Inovys II User Manual

Preface

Congratulations on becoming the owner of a Vermeiren wheelchair! This wheelchair is manufactured by qualified personnel and designed to high quality standards. This manual is provided to help you familiarize yourself with the operation, capabilities, and limitations of your wheelchair. Please read it carefully. For any further questions, contact your specialist dealer.

Important Note: Proper care and regular servicing are essential for safety and product longevity. Warranty is based on normal use and maintenance as described in this manual. Improper use or lack of maintenance may void the warranty. Vermeiren reserves the right to implement product changes without prior notice.

Information Available: The most recent version of this manual is available on the Vermeiren website: www.vermeiren.com. An electronic version is available for visually impaired individuals.

The following manuals are available:

• User manual (for user and specialist dealer)
• Installation manual (for specialist dealer)
• Service manual for wheelchairs (for specialist dealer)

1 Your Product

1.1 Description

The Inovys II wheelchair is designed for easy operation, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It is foldable for compact storage and available in multiple sizes, with options for enhanced user comfort. The following diagram illustrates the important parts of the wheelchair relevant to the user. Refer to Chapter 5 for technical details and intended use limits.

Figure 1: Important Parts

• 1. Headrest (optional)
• 2. Backrest
• 3. Arm pad
• 4. Armrest
• 5. Side plate
• 6. Seat
• 7. Leg rest
• 8. Footplate
• 9. Foot strap
• 10. Calf rest
• 11. Brake
• 12. Front wheel
• 13. Frame
• 14. Rear wheel
• 15. Hand rim
• 16. Handgrip
• 17. Push bar
• 18. Tip cap
• 19. Identification plate

2 Before Use

2.1 Intended Use

This wheelchair is intended for indoor and outdoor use, designed solely for transporting one person with a maximum weight as specified in Chapter 5. It is not designed for transporting goods or other purposes. Operation can be by the user or an attendant, depending on the wheels. Users with physical or mental impairments that could endanger themselves or others should not use the wheelchair without an attendant. Consult your doctor and specialist dealer regarding such conditions. Only use Vermeiren-approved accessories and spare parts. Refer to Chapter 5 for technical details and usage limits.

2.2 General Safety Instructions

CAUTION: Risk of injuries and/or damage. Read and follow all instructions to avoid injury or damage to the wheelchair.

General Warnings:

• Do not operate the wheelchair under the influence of alcohol, medication, or other substances affecting riding ability. This also applies to the attendant.
• Be aware that parts can become hot or cold due to ambient conditions. Use protective clothing in cold weather and consider riding gloves for better grip on hand rims.
• Follow care and service instructions. The manufacturer is not liable for damage from improper servicing.
• The wheelchair may interfere with anti-theft systems.
• Report any serious incidents involving the product to Vermeiren, your specialist dealer, and the competent authority.

2.3 Symbols on the Wheelchair

The following symbols are applicable and can be found in ISO standards (ISO 7000, ISO 7001, IEC 417):

• [Maximum weight symbol]: Maximum weight of the user in kg.
• [Wheelchair symbol with arrow]: Outdoor/indoor use (battery and power adapter excluded).
• [Wheelchair symbol indoors]: For indoor use only (battery and power adapter).
• [Slope symbol]: Maximum safe slope in degrees.
• [Car symbol with cross]: Not intended to be used as seat in a motor vehicle.
• [TYPE symbol]: Type designation.

2.4 Transport and (Dis)assembly

2.4.1 Moving Out of the Way

Move the wheelchair using its wheels. If lifting is necessary and disassembly is not desired, grasp the frame firmly with both hands and lift. Do not use foot or arm rests, or wheels for lifting.

2.4.2 Transport by Vehicle

WARNING: Risk of injuries. Never use the same safety belt for passenger and wheelchair.

1. Disassemble and lift the wheelchair into the vehicle as per section 2.4.4.
2. Store the wheelchair and parts in the luggage compartment. If compartments are not separated or enclosed, secure the wheelchair frame to the vehicle.

A ramp can be used to push the wheelchair inside (see 3.5.4). Apply parking brakes after loading (see 3.1).

2.4.3 Use of the Wheelchair as Seat in a Motor Vehicle

WARNING: Risk of injuries.

The wheelchair is crash-tested (ISO 7176-19:2008) for use as a forward-facing seat in a motor vehicle. Vehicle access and maneuverability may be affected by wheelchair size and turning radius.

• The wheelchair's pelvic belt alone is not a substitute for an occupant restraint belt.
• Use the wheelchair's pelvic belt along with the vehicle's three-point belt to prevent head and chest impacts.
• Postural supports should only be used for restraint if they meet ISO 7176-19:2008 requirements.
• After any vehicle collision, have the wheelchair inspected by a specialist dealer or manufacturer's representative before reuse.

The wheelchair is tested with a four-point strap-tie system and a 3-point occupant-restraint system. Whenever possible, use the vehicle seat and store the wheelchair in the cargo area.

Steps to Secure the Wheelchair in a Motor Vehicle:

1. Ensure the vehicle has a suitable wheelchair tie-down and occupant-restraint system (ISO 10542).
2. Check tie-down and restraint system components for damage.
3. If the seat/backrest is adjustable, ensure the user is as upright as possible. A risk assessment is needed if the user's condition prevents this.
4. Remove and secure all accessories (trays, respiratory equipment).
5. Position the wheelchair facing forward, centered between floor tie-down rails.
6. Mount front securement straps as per manufacturer's instructions at the indicated place (marked with a symbol).
7. Roll the wheelchair back until front straps are tight.
8. Apply the wheelchair brake.
9. Mount back securement straps as per manufacturer's instructions at the indicated place (marked with a symbol).

Steps to Secure the Wheelchair User:

1. Remove armrests if possible.
2. Attach the wheelchair's pelvic belt.
3. Attach occupant restraint belts per manufacturer's instructions.
4. Position the pelvic belt low across the pelvis, with an angle of 30° to 75° to the horizontal. A steeper angle is preferable.
5. Adjust the belt tightly for user comfort.
6. Ensure the restraint belt connects straight to the anchor point, with no visible bends.
7. Reinstall armrests, ensuring belts are not twisted or held away from the body by wheelchair components.
8. Position the seatbelt buckle so its release button is not obstructed during a crash.
9. Ensure shoulder-belt restraints fit over the shoulders.

Figure 2: Improper belt-restraint fit (Shows belt held away from body by armrests/wheels)

Figure 3: Proper belt-restraint fit (Shows belt making full contact with shoulder, chest, and pelvis; pelvic belt low on pelvis)

2.4.4 Assembly

CAUTION: Risk of injuries or damage.

• Ensure fingers, clothes, and buckles do not get trapped during assembly.
• Be mindful of the footrest's swing range to prevent injury or damage.
• Verify all assembled parts are securely fastened before use.

Figure 4: Inovys II base frame with 16" and 24" wheels - disassembled parts

Assembly Steps:

• [1] Place the wheelchair on its wheels. Fold the backrest frame (34) open.
• [2] Mount the front of the spring to the backrest frame using fastener pin (33) and secure its brace. Ensure the backrest frame is firmly attached to the spring.
• [3] Hang the backrest using its four screws into the four brackets (35) of the backrest frame. Tighten the two upper star buttons (36) by hand. Ensure the backrest is secure.
• [4] Turn the armrest support's star knob (37) anticlockwise and remove it. Insert the armrest (9) into the support. Insert the star knob (37) and turn clockwise until finger-tight. Ensure the armrest is secure. Repeat for the second armrest.
• [5] Hold the leg rest (5) sideways and hang it in the footrest support (39). Ensure the leg rest hole (44) aligns with the lower support part and the leg rest pin (38) is inserted in the top support. Swing the leg rest (5) inwards until it clicks. Repeat for the second leg rest.
• [6] Swing the footplate (6) downwards. Repeat for the second footplate.
• [7] Swing the calf rest support (40) inwards. Turn the calf rest (8) to the back. Repeat for the second calf rest.
• [8] If applicable, mount the headrest (1) with its square tube into the headrest support (41) on the backrest. Turn the star knob (42) finger-tight.

Your wheelchair is now ready for use.

2.4.5 Disassembly

CAUTION: Risk of injuries or damage.

• Ensure fingers, clothes, and buckles do not get trapped during disassembly.
• Be mindful of the footrest's swing range to prevent injury or damage.

Disassembly Steps:

• [1] Apply both parking brakes (lever 10), see 3.1.
• [2] Close the calf rest (8) and turn the calf rest support (40) outwards. Fold both footplates (6) upwards. Repeat for the other calf rest.
• [3] Pull the leg rest lever (50) and swing the leg rest (5) outwards. Lift the leg rest to remove it. Repeat for the other leg rest.
• [4] Turn the star knob (37) anticlockwise. Pull and hold the star knob while removing the armrest (9) from its support. Retighten the star knob (37).
• [5] If applicable, demount the headrest (1): Loosen the star knob (42) of the headrest support and remove it. Pull the headrest up until it is free from the backrest support.
• [6] Loosen the two upper star buttons (36) of the backrest by hand. Pull the backrest upwards until it is released from the four brackets (35).
• [7] Demount the spring from the backrest frame by opening the brace of the fastener pin (33) and removing it.
• [8] Fold the backrest frame (34) down onto the seat. Place the fastener pin (33) back in the frame.

2.4.6 (Dis)Assembling Rear Wheels (only for 22"/24")

For transport, rear wheels may need to be disassembled.

• Removing the rear wheels: Press and hold button (43) while sliding the wheel axle out. Repeat for the other wheel and place the wheelchair gently on the tipping caps.
• Installing the rear wheels: Lift the wheelchair on one side. Press and hold button (43) while sliding the wheel axle in. Release the button to lock the wheel. Repeat for the other wheel and ensure both are secure.

2.5 First Use and Storage

CAUTION: Risk of battery damage.

• Store the wheelchair dry to prevent mould and upholstery damage.
• Check technical details for storage in Chapter 5.

3 Using Your Wheelchair

WARNING: Risk of injuries. Read all chapters and understand the intended use before operating. Do NOT use the wheelchair without fully understanding all instructions. Contact your specialist dealer, care provider, or technical advisor for any doubts or questions.

3.1 Parking Brakes (only for 22"/24" wheels)

CAUTION: Risk of injuries.

• Operate brake levers only when the wheelchair is stopped.
• An attendant should operate the brake lever if the user has impaired mobility.
• Ensure the wheelchair is on a flat horizontal surface before releasing brakes.
• Never release both brakes simultaneously.
• Brakes require adjustment by a specialist dealer.

CAUTION: Risk of damage.

• Do not use parking brakes to slow down the wheelchair during movement.

The wheelchair has two manually-operated parking brakes to prevent movement when parked.

• Releasing brakes [A]: Hold one hand rim (or attendant holds push bar). Pull the brake lever (10) of the OTHER wheel to the REAR. Repeat for the second wheel.
• Applying brakes [B]: Hold one hand rim (or attendant holds push bar). Push the brake lever (10) of the OTHER wheel to the FRONT until it locks. Repeat for the second wheel.

Figure 5: Operating parking brakes

3.2 Drum Brakes (only for 16" fixed wheels)

CAUTION: Risk of injuries.

• Ensure the wheelchair is on a flat horizontal surface before releasing brakes.
• Never release both brakes simultaneously.
• To park or stop on a slope, use parking brakes after coming to a halt.
• Brakes require adjustment by a specialist dealer.

• To operate drum brakes: Pull brake levers (60) in a squeeze motion. Block each lever by pushing lock lever (61) down. Release levers (60).
• To move/ride again: Pull brake levers (60) in a squeeze motion (this releases lock lever 61). Hold handgrips firmly while releasing brake levers (60).

Figure 6: Operating drum brakes

3.3 Moving to/from Wheelchair

CAUTION: Risk of injuries or damage.

• If you cannot transfer safely, ask for assistance.
• Do not stand on the footplates during transfer.

Transfer:

1. Position the wheelchair close to your chair, couch, seat, or bed.
2. Apply parking brakes (see 3.1).
3. Adjust backrest and seat to sitting position (see 3.4.1).
4. Fold footplates upwards or turn leg rests aside to clear the passage.
5. Remove armrest and/or leg rest if necessary (see 3.4).
6. Transfer using your arms' strength or with assistance.

Sitting in the Wheelchair:

1. Sit down with your lower back against the backrest.
2. Reinstall armrests/leg rests if removed.
3. Turn leg rests forward, fold down footplates, and place feet on them.
4. Ensure upper legs are horizontal and feet are comfortably positioned; adjust as per section 3.4.

3.4 Comfort Adjustments

CAUTION: Risk of injuries or damage.

• Some adjustments are made by an attendant/caretaker; others by your specialist dealer.
• Be mindful of the footrest's swing range to prevent injury or damage.
• Ensure fingers, clothes, and buckles do not get trapped during adjustment.

3.4.1 Backrest and Seat Inclination

CAUTION: Risk of injuries or damage.

• Stability decreases when moving from upright to inclined positions.
• Apply parking brakes before adjusting inclination.

Seat and backrest inclination can be adjusted simultaneously or separately by an attendant. Ensure the patient is seated and the wheelchair is stable.

• Seat Inclination: Squeeze lever (1) on the left handle towards the handle. Pull/Push the seat to the desired position (0° to +21°). Loosen lever (1) to lock.
• Backrest Inclination: Squeeze lever (1) on the right handle towards the handle. Pull/Push the backrest to the desired position (0° to +54°). Loosen lever (1) to lock.

Note: If your wheelchair has drum brakes, levers (1) are for brakes; additional levers (3) adjust seat/backrest inclination.

3.4.2 Armrest Height

Arm pads (3) can be adjusted in 6 height positions:

1. Turn star knob (45) anticlockwise to unlock.
2. Pull and hold the star knob to release the inner tube of the armrest (9).
3. Slide the inner tube of the armrest (9) up/down in the support (46) to the desired height, aligning holes.
4. Retighten star knob (45) clockwise.
5. Repeat for the second armrest, ensuring it is secure.

Figure 7: Adjusting armrest height

3.4.3 Push Handles / Push Bar Height

CAUTION: Risk of injuries.

• Use available adjustment holes on the push handle. Do not exceed maximum height adjustment.

Push handles (16) and push bar (23) can be adjusted in 7 height positions:

1. Loosen both star knobs (31) on the handle supports and remove them.
2. Adjust height of both push handles simultaneously by sliding them up/down in the supports, aligning holes.
3. Insert the two star knobs (31) into the supports and adjustment holes.
4. Turn star knobs clockwise until finger-tight.
5. Ensure push handles are firmly secured.

Figure 8: Adjusting push-handle height

3.4.4 Leg Rest Angle (BZ7-BZ8)

1. Loosen lever (62) at the rotation point.
2. Adjust leg rest angle by lifting/lowering footplates (between 100° - 190°).
3. Retighten lever (62) firmly.
4. Repeat for the second leg rest, ensuring both are secure.

Figure 9: Adjusting footrest angle

3.4.5 Tip Cap Height

1. Press and hold the spring button (63).
2. Slide the tip cap tube (64) in/out of the frame tube.
3. Release the spring button.
4. Repeat for the second tip cap, ensuring both are secure.

Figure 10: Adjusting tip cap height

3.5 Riding

You can ride the wheelchair yourself or with an attendant, depending on your condition.

CAUTION: Risk of entrapment.

• Prevent fingers from being caught by wheel spokes.
• Prevent hands from getting trapped on hand rims in narrow passages.
• When with an attendant, keep arms away from wheels and feet on footplates.

CAUTION: Risk of injuries and damage.

• Do NOT drive on slopes, obstacles, steps, or kerbs exceeding specifications in Chapter 5.
• Do not ride in traffic; stay on the pavement.
• Do not operate hand rims with wet hands.
• Be aware of road holes or gaps that may cause wheel entrapment.
• Avoid stones or objects that may block wheels.
• Be mindful of the footrest's swing range to prevent injury or damage.

Before each use, ensure:

• All adjustments are firmly secured (see 3.4).
• Parking brakes are working properly.
• Tires are in good condition (see 4).

3.5.1 Riding with an Attendant

1. Release brakes (or have attendant do so) while they hold the wheelchair to prevent movement (see 3.1 or 3.2).
2. The attendant grasps handgrips or push bar to move the wheelchair.
3. After stopping, apply brakes while holding the wheelchair in place (see 3.1 or 3.2).

3.5.2 Riding on Your Own

1. Release parking brakes one by one (see 3.1).
2. Move hands to the highest position on hand rims.
3. Lean forward and push/turn hand rims forward until arms are straight.
4. Swing arms back to the top of hand rims and repeat the push.
5. To stop: wait for the wheelchair to stop, then move forward/backward by operating hand rims. Apply parking brakes one by one (see 3.1).

3.5.3 Riding on Slopes

CAUTION: Risk of injuries.

• If the attendant lacks strength to control the wheelchair, stop and use brakes immediately.
• On slopes, use brakes when stopping, as the wheelchair may move unexpectedly.

1. Secure yourself with a safety belt.
2. Ask an attendant or bystander for help.
3. Drive slowly and straight. Lean slightly forward when going up, backward against the backrest when going down.
4. Never reverse on a slope.

Figure 11: Going up a slope (Illustrates leaning forward/backward)

3.5.4 Using Ramps

CAUTION: Risk of injuries caused by tipping over.

• Use only Vermeiren-approved ramps and do not exceed their maximum load.
• Ensure the wheelchair does not touch the ground or ramp due to inclination.
• Negotiate ramps only with one or two attendants.

1. Adjust backrest, seat, and footrest to reduce volume and increase stability during inclination.
2. Remove footrests (see 2.4.5).
3. Follow instructions in 3.5.3.

3.5.5 Using Stairs

CAUTION: Risk of injuries caused by tipping over.

• Stairs should always be negotiated with two attendants.
• Never use stairs unsuitable for wheelchairs.

To use stairs while seated:

1. Remove footrests (see 2.4.5).
2. One attendant tips the wheelchair slightly backwards by the handles.
3. The second attendant grabs the front of the frame on both sides.
4. Stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and keep arms inside the wheelchair.
5. Both attendants lift and pull the wheelchair step-by-step, rolling the rear wheels over the steps.
6. After using stairs, remount footrests (see 2.4.4).

Figure 12: Using stairs

3.5.6 Coping with Obstacles

CAUTION: Risk of injuries caused by tipping over.

• Always ask for assistance from one or two attendants.
• Ensure footplates do not touch the ground when taking an obstacle. Remove footrests if necessary.
• Do not use the wheelchair on an escalator.
• Wear your safety belt if available.

Negotiating Kerbs:

• Small Kerbs (up or down): With one attendant. Approach kerb forward (E/F). Lean backwards to reduce pressure on front wheels. Attendant holds handles firmly, using tip cap if needed to lift front wheels over the kerb rim. Gently place front wheels on the ground. Push with rear wheels up/down the kerb.
• Medium Kerbs (up or down): With one attendant. Reverse wheelchair so rear wheels approach kerb first (G/H). Lean forward when going down (G), backward when going up (H) to shift center of gravity. Attendant pulls wheelchair gently from/on the kerb.
• Higher Kerbs: With two attendants.
  • Going down: Remove footrests. Approach kerb forward. Lean backwards. Attendant holds handles firmly and uses tip cap to lift front wheels. Second attendant grabs front frame and moves backward, pulling rear wheels down. First attendant releases pressure to place front wheels on ground.
  • Going up: Remove footrests. Reverse wheelchair so rear wheels approach kerb first. Lean backward. Second attendant grabs front frame and moves forward, pulling rear wheels up. First attendant lifts and holds handles firmly to prevent tipping.

4 Maintenance

Your wheelchair requires minimal maintenance but regular inspection ensures trouble-free operation for years.

4.1 Points of Maintenance

CAUTION: Risk of injuries and damage.

• Repairs and replacements must be done by trained persons using genuine Vermeiren parts.

The last page of this manual has a service registration form for the specialist dealer. Service frequency depends on usage. Agree on a maintenance timetable with your dealer.

Before Each Use:

• Inspect all parts: present, undamaged, unworn.
• Clean all parts (see 4.2.2).
• Check wheels, seat, leg rests, arm rests, foot rests, footplates, and headrest (if applicable) for security.
• Check condition of wheels/tyres (see 4.2.1).
• Check condition of brakes (see 4.2.1).
• Check frame condition: no deformation, instability, weakness, or loose connections.
• Check seat, backrest, arm pads, leg pads, and head rest (if applied) for excessive wear (dents, tears).

Contact your specialist dealer for repairs or part replacements.

Yearly or More Often:

Have your wheelchair inspected and serviced by your specialist dealer at least annually.

If Stored:

Ensure the wheelchair is stored dry to prevent mould and upholstery damage.

4.2 Instructions of Maintenance

4.2.1 Wheels and Tyres

• Brake function depends on tyre condition, which can be affected by wear and contamination.
• Keep wheels free of wires, hair, sand, and carpet fibres.
• Check tyre tread depth. If less than 1 mm, tyres need replacement. Contact your specialist dealer.

4.2.2 Cleaning

CAUTION: Risk of damage by moisture.

• Never use a hose or high-pressure cleaner.
• Wipe rigid parts with a damp cloth (not drenched). Use mild soap suitable for varnishes and synthetics if needed.
• Upholstery can be cleaned with lukewarm water and mild soap. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents.

4.2.3 Disinfection

CAUTION: Risk of damage.

• Disinfections must be performed by trained persons. Consult your specialist dealer.

4.3 Troubleshooting

Contact your local specialist dealer if a technical problem occurs.

WARNING: Risk of injuries and damage to the wheelchair.

• NEVER attempt to repair the wheelchair yourself.

The following symptoms may indicate a serious problem:

• Strange sound.
• Uneven tread wear on tyres.
• Jerky movements.
• Wheelchair deflects to one side.
• Damaged or broken wheel assemblies.

4.4 Expected Lifespan

The average lifespan of your wheelchair is 5 years, which may vary with usage, driving circumstances, and maintenance.

4.5 End of Use

Dispose of the wheelchair according to local environmental legislation. Disassembly facilitates the transport of recyclable parts.

5 Technical Specifications

The technical details below are valid for standard settings and optimal ambient conditions. Values may change if the wheelchair is modified, damaged, or suffers severe wear.

Table 2: Technical Specifications

* Do not adjust the footrest in maximum length to prevent the footplate from touching the ground.
** Tested in standard configuration
NA: Not applicable

We reserve the right to introduce technical changes. Measurement tolerance ± 15 mm /1,5 kg / 1,5°.