Vermeiren Bobby User Manual

Introduction

Congratulations! You are now the owner of a Vermeiren wheelchair. This wheelchair has been manufactured by expert and qualified personnel, designed and produced according to the highest quality standards implemented by Vermeiren. Please read this manual carefully. It will help you become familiar with the operation, capabilities, and limitations of your wheelchair. If you have any doubts after reading this manual, please contact your specialized dealer; they will be happy to assist you.

Important Note: To ensure your safety and prolong the product's lifespan, take good care of it and ensure regular checks and corresponding maintenance are performed.

This manual reflects the latest product developments. Vermeiren reserves the right to implement changes to this type of product without any obligation to adapt or change similar products previously delivered. The images are provided to clarify the instructions contained in this manual. The details of the product shown may vary with respect to your product.

Available Information: On our website www.vermeiren.com, you will always find the most recent version of the information in this manual. Consult this website regularly to stay informed of possible updates.

Visually impaired individuals can download the electronic version of the manual and use voice synthesis software to hear its content.

• Manual of instructions: For the user and the specialized dealer
• Maintenance manual for wheelchairs: For the specialized dealer
• EC Declaration of Conformity

1. Your Product

This section identifies the main components of the Vermeiren Bobby wheelchair.

Diagram Description: A blue Vermeiren Bobby wheelchair is depicted. Various parts are numbered for identification.

1. Cruceta (Crossbar)
2. Asideros (Handles)
3. Respaldo (Backrest)
4. Almohadillas del reposabrazos (Armrest pads)
5. Reposabrazos (Armrests)
6. Ruedas de tracción (ruedas traseras) (Drive wheels - rear wheels)
7. Frenos (Brakes)
8. Tapón (Cap/Plug)
9. Ruedas de dirección (ruedas delanteras) (Steering wheels - front wheels)
10. Reposapiés (Footrests)
11. Paleta (Footplate)
12. Asiento (Seat)
13. Placa de identificación de ubicaciones (Identification plate)

2. Before Use

2.1 Intended Use

This section briefly describes the intended use of the wheelchair. It also includes relevant warnings for instructions in other paragraphs, aiming to alert the user to potential misuse.

• Indications and Contraindications: The wheelchair is pushed by an attendant. It is designed for people with reduced mobility, for non-permanent use and for transport purposes. Its modular construction and various accessories allow it to be fully used by the elderly.
• The wheelchair can be used indoors and/or outdoors.
• The wheelchair is designed to transport one person with a maximum weight of 115 kg.
• It is not designed for transporting goods or objects, or for uses other than those described above.
• Only use accessories and spare parts approved by Vermeiren.
• Consult all technical data and limitations in Chapter 6.
• The warranty for this product is based on normal use and maintenance as described in this manual. The warranty is void if the product suffers any damage caused by improper use or lack of maintenance.

2.2 Explanation of Symbols

• ⚖️ Peso máximo del usuario en kg (Maximum user weight in kg)
• ?☀️ Uso en interior/exterior (Indoor/outdoor use)
• ↗️ Pendiente máxima segura en ° (grados) (Maximum safe slope in °)
• ℹ️ Tipo de modelo (Model type)

2.3 General Safety Instructions

• Do not use the wheelchair if you have consumed alcohol, medication, or other substances that affect driving ability.
• Be aware that certain parts of the wheelchair can become very hot or cold due to ambient temperature, sunlight, or heating. Exercise caution when touching the wheelchair. Wear protective clothing in cold weather. When going outdoors, you can use protective gloves to improve grip on the push rims.
• Do not modify this wheelchair in any way.
• To avoid injury or damage to your wheelchair, ensure that no objects or body parts get trapped in the spokes of the drive wheels.
• Note that your wheelchair may interfere with some types of anti-theft systems, depending on the configuration used. This may cause a store alarm to activate.
• In the event of a serious incident with your product, notify Vermeiren or your specialized dealer, as well as the competent authority in your country.

2.4 Transport

2.4.1 Moving Out of the Way

The best way to transport the wheelchair is to push it and use the wheels. If this is not possible (e.g., lifting the rear wheels to load it into a car), grip it by the front frame and the handles. Do not grip it by the armrests, footrests, or wheels.

2.4.2 Vehicle Transport as Luggage

• PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones (Risk of injury).
• DO NOT use the wheelchair as a seat in a vehicle; see the following symbol.
• Ensure the wheelchair is correctly secured to prevent any damage to passengers in case of collision or sudden braking.
• NEVER use the same seatbelt to secure both the wheelchair and the passenger.
• Fold the wheelchair to its most compact size following the instructions in section 2.5.
• Store the wheelchair and its wheels in the trunk or behind the passenger seat. If the trunk and car seats are NOT separated or closed off, securely fasten the wheelchair frame to the vehicle.

2.5 Folding/Unfolding the Wheelchair

PRECAUCIÓN: Danger of trapping fingers: do not place fingers between the wheelchair components.

To fold the wheelchair:

1. Fold or remove the footplates (see section 3.1).
2. Fold the backrest (see section 3.2).
3. Grip the seat at the front and rear and pull it upwards.
4. Push the handles to fold the wheelchair further.

To unfold the wheelchair:

1. Position yourself behind the wheelchair.
2. Unfold the backrest (see section 3.2).
3. Use the handles to open the wheelchair as much as possible.
4. Position yourself in front of the wheelchair.
5. Push the two seat tubes downwards until they lock into place.

2.6 Storage

Ensure the wheelchair is stored in a dry place to prevent mold and damage to the upholstery; see also section 6.

3. Using the Wheelchair

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones y daños (Risk of injury and damage).

• Read the previous chapters and familiarize yourself with the intended use. DO NOT use the wheelchair if you have not thoroughly read and fully understood all instructions.
• If you have any doubts or questions, contact your local specialized dealer, care provider, or technical advisor for assistance.
• Ensure that wheels or other moving parts do not accidentally pinch your hands, clothing, belts, buckles, or jewelry during use or adjustment.

3.1 Footrest Assembly and Disassembly

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones (Risk of injury).

• Ensure the footrests are locked in place before use.
• Keep objects away from the swinging motion of the footrests during assembly or disassembly.

To assemble the footrests:

1. Hold the footrest vertically by the outer part of the wheelchair frame and insert the tube cap (1) into the frame.
2. Turn the footrest inwards until it clicks into place.
3. Turn the footplate downwards.

To remove the footrests:

1. Pull the handle (2).
2. Turn the footrest outwards away from the wheelchair until it disengages from the guide.
3. Remove the footrest from the tube cap (1).

3.2 Backrest Folding / Unfolding

ADVERTENCIA: Riesgo de lesiones: ensure the backrest is securely fastened before use.

Folding the backrest:

1. Pull the levers (1), until the pin disengages from the hole.
2. Pull the upper backrest tubes (2) downwards until the backrest is fully folded.

To unfold the backrest:

1. Pull the backrest tubes (2) upwards until the backrest is firmly secured.
2. Ensure the backrest is securely fastened.

3.3 Brake Operation

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones (Risk of injury).

• Brakes are not used to reduce the wheelchair's speed during movement. Use the brakes only to prevent unwanted movement.
• Brake function depends on wear and presence of substances (water, oil, mud, etc.). Check wheel condition before use.
• Brakes can be adjusted and may wear out. Check brake function before each use.
• Ensure the wheelchair is on a flat, horizontal surface before releasing the brakes. Never release both brakes simultaneously.

To engage the brakes:

1. Pull the brake levers (1) upwards.
2. Press the part (2) to lock the brakes.

To release the brakes:

1. First release part (2).
2. Release the brake levers (1).

3.4 Transferring to and from the Wheelchair

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones y daños (Risk of injury and damage).

• If you cannot transfer safely, ask someone for help.
• Do not stand on the footrests.

1. Position the wheelchair as close as possible to the chair, sofa, or bed you wish to transfer to or from.
2. Ensure both wheelchair brakes are engaged.
3. Fold the footrests upwards to prevent standing on them.
4. Transfer to/from the wheelchair.

3.4.1 Correct Sitting Position

Some recommendations for comfortable wheelchair use:

• Sit with your back as close to the backrest as possible.
• Ensure the upper part of your legs is horizontal. If necessary, adjust the footrest length (see section 4.3).

3.5 Driving the Wheelchair

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones y daños (Risk of injury and damage).

• Before each use, ensure:
  • The parking brakes are functioning correctly.
  • The tires are in good condition (see section 5).
• Be careful not to trap fingers in the wheel spokes.
• DO NOT drive on slopes or over obstacles, steps, or curbs exceeding the dimensions detailed in section 6.
• When stopping on a slope (not too steep), use the brakes.
• Ensure all four wheels are in contact with the ground when ascending or descending a slope.
• When driving on slopes, do so as slowly as possible.
• Always stay on paved surfaces when circulating on public roads.
• Pay attention to the road to detect potholes or cracks where wheels could get trapped.
• Avoid stones or other objects that could block the wheels.
• Ensure the footrests do not hit the ground when crossing an obstacle.
• Do not use the wheelchair on escalators.
• If available, fasten the seatbelt.
• Always consider the turning radius of the footrests to avoid injuring others or damaging objects.
• When crossing stairs, always have the assistance of two helpers.
• Never attempt to use stairs that are not designed for wheelchairs.

4. Installation and Adjustment

This chapter contains instructions intended for specialized dealers.

The Vermeiren Bobby is a wheelchair designed for short trips and easy transport. To find a service center or specialized dealer near you, contact your nearest Vermeiren center.

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones y daños (Risk of injury and damage).

• Risk due to dangerous adjustments; use only the adjustments indicated in this manual.
• Making adjustments to the chair may alter its stability (tilting forwards or sideways).

4.1 Tools

To assemble the wheelchair, you will need the following tools:

• Set of 10mm wrenches
• Set of 4mm Allen keys
• Phillips head screwdriver

4.2 Delivery Contents

The Vermeiren Bobby wheelchair is delivered with:

• 1 chassis with armrests, front and rear wheels
• 1 pair of leg rests
• Tools
• Manual
• Accessories (optional)

4.3 Footrest Length Adjustment

PRECAUCIÓN: Risk of damage: ensure the footrests do not contact the ground. Maintain a minimum distance of 60 mm above the ground.

Adjust the footrest length as follows (3 holes in the inner tube, 3 holes in the outer tube; 120mm range):

1. Remove the screw (1).
2. Adjust the footrest length to your comfortable measurement.
3. Tighten the screw (1) correctly.

4.4 Footrest Angle Adjustment

Adjust the angle of the footrests as follows:

1. Loosen screw (1).
2. Adjust tube (2) to the desired angle. Marks (3) indicate the angle (95°-100°-105°-110°-115°).
3. Retighten bolt (1).

4.5 Brake Adjustment

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones: only your specialized dealer can adjust the brakes.

1. Turn part (1) to adjust brake tension.
2. Check brake function.
3. If necessary, repeat and turn part (1) until the brakes are properly adjusted.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Maintenance Points

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de lesiones y daños (Risk of injury and damage).

Any repair or changes can only be carried out by properly qualified personnel, and only original Vermeiren spare parts may be used.

The last page of this manual contains a registration form for the specialized dealer to record each maintenance. The frequency of maintenance depends on the frequency and intensity of use. Contact your dealer to arrange a common schedule for inspections, maintenance, and repairs. For the maintenance manual, visit the Vermeiren website: www.vermeiren.com.

Before Each Use

Inspect the following aspects:

• All parts: Present and without damage or wear.
• All parts: Cleanliness (see section 5.2.2).
• Wheels, backrest, seat, calf supports, armrests, footrests: Securely fastened.
• Condition of wheels/tires (see section 5.2.1).
• Condition of frame parts: No deformation, instability, weakness, or loose connections.
• Seat, backrest, arm pads, calf pads, headrest (if applicable): No excessive wear (e.g., dents, damage, or cracks).
• Brakes: No deterioration and in good working order.

Contact the specialized dealer for possible repairs or part replacements.

Annually or More Frequently

The wheelchair must undergo an inspection and maintenance session by the specialized dealer at least once a year, or more frequently. The minimum maintenance frequency depends on usage and should therefore be mutually agreed upon with the specialized dealer.

5.2 Maintenance Instructions

5.2.1 Wheels and Tires

The correct functioning of the brakes depends on the condition of the tires and can be affected by wear or dirt (water, oil, mud...). Keep wheels free of cables, hair, sand, and fibers. Check the tire tread. If the tread depth is less than 1 mm, the tires must be replaced. Contact your specialized dealer regarding this.

5.2.2 Cleaning

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de daños por humedad (Risk of damage from moisture).

• Never use a hose or high-pressure cleaner to clean the wheelchair.
• Clean all rigid parts of the wheelchair with a damp cloth (not soaked). If necessary, use a mild soap suitable for cleaning varnished and synthetic surfaces.
• The upholstery can be cleaned with lukewarm water and mild soap. Do not use abrasive cleaning products.

5.2.3 Disinfection

PRECAUCIÓN: Riesgo de daños (Risk of damage).

Disinfection can only be carried out by properly qualified personnel. Consult your specialized dealer regarding this.

5.3 Troubleshooting

Although the wheelchair is used as indicated, technical problems may sometimes arise. In such cases, contact your specialized dealer.

AVISO: Riesgo de lesiones y daños a la silla de ruedas (Risk of injury and damage to the wheelchair).

• NEVER attempt to repair the wheelchair yourself.
• The following signs may indicate a serious problem. It is therefore recommended to contact your specialized dealer if you notice the following issues:
  • Strange noises;
  • Uneven wear of the tread on one of the tires;
  • Jerky movements;
  • The wheelchair deviates to one side;
  • Damaged or broken wheel assemblies.

5.4 Expected Lifespan

The average lifespan of the wheelchair is 5 years. The lifespan will increase or decrease depending on the frequency of use, driving conditions, and maintenance.

5.5 Reuse

Before reusing the wheelchair, disinfect it, inspect it, and have it undergo maintenance according to the instructions in §5.1 and §5.2.

5.6 End of Life

At the end of its useful life, the wheelchair must be disposed of according to your local environmental laws. To transport recyclable materials from the wheelchair more conveniently, it is recommended to dismantle it first.

6. Technical Specifications

The technical data presented below are valid only for this wheelchair, with standard configuration and under optimal environmental conditions. Consider this data during use. The values presented here will no longer be applicable if the wheelchair has been modified, damaged, or suffers from intense wear.

We reserve the right to make technical modifications. Measurement tolerance ± 15 mm / 1.5 kg / 1.5°.