Vermeiren Forest 3 User Manual
This manual provides instructions for the Vermeiren Forest 3 electric wheelchair.
Foreword
Congratulations on becoming the owner of a Vermeiren wheelchair! This wheelchair has been manufactured by qualified personnel and is designed and produced according to Vermeiren's high quality standards. Thank you for your trust in Vermeiren products. This manual is intended to help you use this wheelchair and its operating options. Please read it carefully to familiarize yourself with its operation, capabilities, and limitations. If you have any questions after reading this manual, please contact your specialized dealer for assistance.
Important Note: For your safety and to prolong the product's lifespan, take good care of it and have it checked or serviced regularly. This manual reflects the latest product developments. Vermeiren reserves the right to make modifications to this type of product without being obliged to adapt or replace previously supplied similar products. Product illustrations are used to clarify instructions; details of the illustrated product may differ from your product.
Available Information: The latest version of the information described in this manual can be found on our website: www.vermeiren.com. Please check this website regularly for updates. Visually impaired individuals can download the electronic version of this manual and read it using a text-to-speech application.
This user manual is for the user and the specialized dealer. It is accompanied by a user manual for the control console and battery charger, installation instructions, and a CE conformity declaration.
1 Your Product
The Vermeiren Forest 3 electric wheelchair includes the following components:
Diagram Description: The diagram shows a side view of the Forest 3 wheelchair with numbered parts:
- Backrest
- Adjustable armrests
- Armrests
- Control Console
- Seat
- Light (optional)
- Footrests
- Directional wheels (front wheels)
- Footrest plate
- Battery protection
- Identification plate
- Drive wheels (rear wheels)
- Base chassis
1.1 Accessories
The following accessories are available for the Forest 3 electric wheelchair:
- Table (B15+B13)
- Manually adjustable legrest (BZ7 / BZ8)
- Electrically adjustable legrest (BZE)
- Headrest (L55, L58)
- Pads (lateral supports) for stability (L04) - only available with fixed backrest
- Anterior pelvic belt (B58)
- Crutch holder (B31)
- Light (SE19)
- Cup holder (SE24)
- Luggage compartment (SE27)
- Luggage rack (SE28)
- Electric seat tilt, backrest recline, lift
2 Before Use
2.1 Intended Use
This section provides a brief description of the intended use of your wheelchair. Relevant warnings are also included in other sections to highlight potential misuse.
Indications and Contraindications: This wheelchair is intended for use by the seated user. It is designed and produced as a transport aid for individuals with paralysis, limb loss, limb deformities/deficiencies, or cardiac insufficiency. Do NOT use this wheelchair if you have physical or mental handicaps that could endanger yourself or others while driving. Consult your doctor and ensure your specialized dealer is informed of this advice.
- This wheelchair is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- It is designed and manufactured solely for the transport of one (1) person with a maximum weight of 130 kg. It is not intended for transporting goods or objects, nor for any other use than described.
- Use only Vermeiren-approved accessories and spare parts. Consult Chapter 5 for technical details and limitations.
- The product warranty is based on normal use and maintenance as described in this manual. Damage due to improper use or lack of maintenance will void the warranty.
2.2 General Safety Instructions
[Attention] Risk of injury or damage
Please read and follow the instructions in this user manual. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to your wheelchair.
General warnings during use:
- Do not use your wheelchair while under the influence of alcohol, medication, or other substances that may impair your driving ability.
- Be aware that parts of your wheelchair can become very hot or cold depending on ambient temperature, sunlight, heating devices, or the drive motor. Exercise caution when touching them. Wear protective clothing in cold weather. After use, wait for the wheelchair/motor to cool down.
- Before starting the wheelchair, be aware of your surroundings and adapt your speed accordingly. It is recommended to use the lowest speed indoors. Outdoors, you can increase speed to a level where you feel comfortable and safe.
- Always be aware that your wheelchair may stop suddenly due to a discharged battery or a protective mechanism. Check possible causes mentioned in § 4.3. Wear your seatbelt to prevent injuries.
- Your wheelchair has undergone electromagnetic compatibility testing and complies with the relevant standard (see Chapter 6). However, sources of magnetic fields, such as mobile phones or high-power generators, may affect its performance. We recommend checking for damage or wear that could increase interference (see Chapter 4).
- Only drive on flat surfaces where both drive wheels touch the ground and there is sufficient contact for safe operation.
- Do not make modifications or replacements to attachment points, chassis, or structural components without consulting the manufacturer.
- Ensure your hands, clothing, belts, buckles, or jewelry do not get caught in the wheels or other moving parts.
- Be aware that your wheelchair may interfere with certain anti-theft systems, potentially triggering store alarms.
- In case of a serious incident involving your product, inform Vermeiren or your specialized dealer, as well as the competent authority in your country.
2.3 Symbols on the Wheelchair
The following symbols relate to your wheelchair and are found in corresponding ISO standards (ISO 7000, ISO 7001, and IEC 417):
- [Person with wheelchair icon] Maximum user weight in kg
- [House with arrow icon] Indoor/outdoor use (battery charger not included)
- [House with battery icon] Indoor use only (battery charger)
- [Degree symbol icon] Maximum safe gradient in ° (degrees)
- [Speedometer icon] Maximum speed
- [TYPE label] Type indication
- [Triangle with exclamation mark icon] Risk of pinching
2.4 Transport
[Attention] Risk of damage
Take measures to protect the wheelchair from damage during transport.
2.4.1 Clearing Space
Use the control console to move the wheelchair to its destination. You can also put the wheelchair in release mode (see §3.4) and use the push bar to move it.
2.4.2 Transport by Air
The wheelchair is equipped with sealed AGM batteries, allowing it to be transported by air. Consult your airline for correct handling procedures before booking your flight. Before handing over your wheelchair to airport personnel, disconnect the battery (see installation instructions).
2.4.3 Transport by Vehicle, as Luggage
[Warning] Risk of injury and damage
- Ensure the release lever is in the braking position during transport (see § 3.4).
- Use the control console to move your wheelchair to a stable position (see § 3.5).
- Remove all accessories attached to the wheelchair, such as trays and respiratory equipment, and store them safely.
- Use a ramp to drive the wheelchair into the vehicle's luggage compartment.
- If the trunk is not separated from the passenger compartment or is not closed, secure the wheelchair correctly in the vehicle using a four-point strap system (see Figure 1).
2.4.4 Transport by Vehicle, as a Seat for the User
The wheelchair has passed the collision test according to ISO 7176-19:2008 and is designed and tested solely for use as a forward-facing seat in a motorized vehicle. The wheelchair underwent dynamic testing using a crash test dummy (DAE) with a four-point strap system and a three-point passenger restraint system. However, it is preferable for the user to occupy a vehicle seat and use the vehicle's restraint system. The wheelchair should be stored as luggage in a separate compartment (see §2.4.3).
[Warning] Risk of bodily and material damage
Use the wheelchair's pelvic belt and the vehicle's three-point belt to prevent impact between the user's head or chest and the vehicle. Do not use posture supports to restrain the user unless they are certified according to ISO 7176-19:2008. If you have been involved in a car collision, have your wheelchair inspected by a specialized dealer or manufacturer representative before reusing it.
Attaching the Wheelchair
- Ensure the vehicle is equipped with a four-point wheelchair strap system and a passenger restraint system compliant with ISO 10542, and that these systems are not cut, contaminated, damaged, or broken.
- Use the control console to move your wheelchair to a stable position (see §3.5).
- Remove all accessories attached to the wheelchair, such as trays and respiratory equipment, and store them safely. If this is not possible, attach them to the wheelchair away from the occupant, placing energy-absorbing padding between the tray and the user.
- Use a ramp to drive the wheelchair (with the user) into the vehicle as per instructions in §3.2.1.
- Orient the user forward in the direction of travel and position them centrally between the floor fixation rails.
- Ensure the user is seated as upright as possible. If the user's condition prevents upright seating, conduct a risk assessment to estimate safety during transport.
- Turn off the control console and ensure the release lever is in the braking position (see §3.4).
- The location of each attachment point on the wheelchair is indicated by the following symbol: [Attachment point symbol].
- Verify that the end fitting of the strap is compatible with the wheelchair's attachment points.
- Secure the front safety straps as indicated by the manufacturer (see Figure 1).
- Place the release lever in the release position and roll the wheelchair backward to firmly tighten the front straps (see §3.4).
- Secure the rear safety straps as indicated by the manufacturer (see Figure 1).
- Return the release lever to the braking position (see §3.4).
Attaching the User
- Attach the wheelchair's pelvic belt.
- Attach the vehicle's user restraint belts following the strap system manufacturer's instructions.
[Information icon] Install the pelvic belt low, across the pelvis, so that the belt angle remains within the preferred zone of 30° to 75° relative to the horizontal, as illustrated. A steeper angle within the preferred zone is desirable.
Figure 2: Pelvic belt angle
- Adjust the belt snugly according to the strap system manufacturer's instructions, while respecting user comfort.
- Ensure the restraint belt connects in a straight line to the vehicle's anchor point and that there are no visible creases in the belt, for example, at the rear wheel axle.
- Position the seatbelt buckle so that the release button is not activated by wheelchair components in case of a collision.
- Ensure the belts are not twisted or held away from the body, as shown in Figure 6.
- Ensure the shoulder restraint belts rest properly on the user's shoulders (see Figure 7).
Figure 3: Incorrect position of seatbelt restraints
Figure 4: Correct position of seatbelt restraints
2.5 First Use and Storage
[Attention] Risk of battery damage
- Never fully discharge the battery.
- Do not interrupt the charging cycle; only disconnect the battery charger when the battery is fully charged.
- Ensure your wheelchair is stored in a dry environment to prevent mold formation and damage to the upholstery. Use a protective cover if necessary.
- Check technical details for storage in Chapter 5.
Ensure the battery is fully charged before using the wheelchair. Ask your dealer if this has already been done. For charging, follow the instructions in §3.7.
3 Using Your Wheelchair
[Warning] Risk of injury
Read the preceding chapters first and familiarize yourself with the intended use. Do NOT use your wheelchair without first reading and fully understanding all instructions. Also, read the instructions in the manual for the operator console and battery charger! If you have any doubts or questions, do not hesitate to contact your local dealer, care provider, or technical advisor for assistance.
3.1 First Use
[Attention] Risk of injury and damage
- Always consider the range of motion of the footrest and control console to avoid injuring people or damaging nearby objects.
- Always disconnect the battery charger from the wheelchair before starting to move.
- Ensure you are well-acquainted with the wheelchair's operation before using it in crowded and potentially dangerous areas. Practice first in a spacious, open area with few people around.
- Observe the effects of center of gravity shifts on the wheelchair's behavior, for example, on inclines (uphill or downhill), on side-sloping ground, or when overcoming obstacles. Seek assistance from a companion.
- The surface of the control unit may become slightly warm during use.
- When reversing, the speed is reduced.
To start using the wheelchair:
- Ensure that:
- The wheelchair is on a flat surface.
- The battery is fully charged (see § 3.7).
- The motor is engaged (see § 3.4).
- The tires have the correct pressure (see § 4.1).
- The wheelchair is adjusted for your needs and comfort (see §3.6).
- You have the correct seating position (see § 3.6).
- Follow the instructions in the control console user manual.
- Start the wheelchair.
- Set the control to the minimum speed.
- Practice driving and make adjustments to the wheelchair.
- When you feel comfortable enough, try driving at a higher speed.
- Next, practice turning, both forward and backward. Repeat these maneuvers a few times.
- Ensure your wheelchair is stable when you stop.
- Turn off the wheelchair.
3.2 Driving Outdoors
[Warning] Risk of accident - Adjust your driving behavior and speed.
- Respect the traffic laws, which may differ by country. This applies to driving on sidewalks, roads, or paved/unpaved surfaces.
- Do not drive on roads with heavy traffic.
- Consider climatic conditions. Avoid driving in humid weather, extreme heat, snow, ice, or temperatures below zero (see technical specifications in Chapter 5).
- Even with lights on, your wheelchair is not suitable for public road use in reduced visibility (darkness, fog, twilight). Ensure you are visible, even during daylight, by using fluorescent clothing or your own front and rear lighting.
- Be considerate of other road users for whom your wheelchair may be an obstacle. Pay special attention when turning and reversing. If you are not used to reversing, practice in an open area first. Indicate your intended direction before turning.
- Try to drive straight in narrow passages to avoid getting stuck.
- Consider the braking distance. Remember that braking distance depends on speed, surface, climatic conditions, and user weight.
3.2.1 Beware of Slopes, Curbs, Obstacles, or Ramps
[Attention] Risk of injury from unexpected movement
- Fasten your seatbelt when seated in the wheelchair.
- Be cautious on sandy roads, soft ground, and in holes or cracks that can trap wheels or reduce traction.
- Do NOT drive over slopes, obstacles, steps, or curbs larger than the dimensions specified in the technical specifications (Chapter 5).
- Always approach a curb from the front.
- Do not put your wheelchair in release mode on a slope. The wheelchair may start moving and injure you or others.
- Do not use your wheelchair on escalators or stairs.
- Use only Vermeiren-approved ramps and do not exceed their maximum load capacity.
When you stop on a slope, the brake will automatically engage to prevent the wheelchair from moving forward or backward.
[Attention] Risk of damage
- Always park your electric wheelchair on flat, horizontal surfaces in easily accessible locations.
- If necessary, accelerate the wheelchair slightly to climb a slope, obstacle, curb, or ramp. Beware of the risk of rolling back.
- Ensure the wheelchair does not touch the ground or ramp during inclination.
- Note that the braking distance on downhill slopes can be considerably longer than on flat ground.
Procedure:
- Begin driving as per instructions in § 3.1, step 1.
- To ascend or descend stairs/steps, use lifting equipment or a ramp. If these are not available, the wheelchair can be lifted manually by at least three people, gripping the chassis firmly with both hands. Do not use the backrest, footrest plate(s), armrests, or wheels for gripping.
- Beware of obstacles or slopes:
- Set the wheelchair to its most stable position (see § 3.6).
- Drive as slowly as possible to manage the obstacle or slope.
3.3 Control Console
[Attention] Risk of injury or damage
- Be aware that stability decreases when the wheelchair moves from a seated to a reclined position.
- Ensure there is enough space around the wheelchair to operate the backrest and seat.
- When the seat is reclined to the furthest forward position, the footrests may touch the front wheels. This position is primarily intended for transfers to/from the wheelchair.
[Information icon] The operation manual for the control console is described in a separate user manual supplied with your wheelchair. If this manual is missing, please contact your specialized dealer immediately.
Place the joystick in the neutral position (center) before pressing the on/off button to avoid blocking the electronics. To unlock, turn the control console off and on again.
Technical Protections: The control console allows you to operate all drive components and motors to adjust your body position. For your safety and to prevent damage to the wheelchair, movements are monitored by electronics. This may result in movement blockage, speed reduction, or complete stop. Consult the control console user manual for more information.
To prevent accidental battery discharge, your wheelchair is equipped with an automatic shut-off system. This system turns off the console automatically when it is not used for an extended period. If this happens, simply turn your console back on.
3.4 Brake and Release Lever
[Attention] Risk of injury or damage
- Only operate the release lever when your wheelchair is STOPPED! A companion should operate the release lever. NEVER operate it while seated.
- Do not use the release mode on slopes or inclines (see symbol on the motor: [Release lever symbol]).
[Information icon] Ensure the release lever is in the braking position BEFORE starting the wheelchair. The electromagnetic brakes do NOT function if the wheelchair is in release mode. This is indicated on the control console. Driving is impossible.
Your wheelchair is equipped with electromagnetic brakes. Brake operation depends on the position of the release lever (1). The electromagnetic brakes function automatically only when the release lever (1) is in the braking position. In this situation, the brakes engage if:
- The wheelchair is OFF.
- The wheelchair is ON and the joystick is released.
Release Lever Operation:
- Turn the lever inwards to put the wheelchair in release mode. The motor is then disconnected. The wheelchair can be moved manually.
- Turn the lever outwards to connect the motor for driving. This must be done before starting the wheelchair.
3.5 Transferring To/From the Wheelchair
[Attention] Risk of injury or damage
- If you cannot perform the transfer safely, ask someone for help.
- Do not lean on the footrest plate(s) during transfers to or from the wheelchair.
Transfer
- Position the wheelchair as close to you as possible when sitting on a chair, armchair, seat, or bed.
- Engage the brakes by turning the release lever to the braking position (see § 3.4).
- Use the control console to move the backrest and seat to the seated position (see control console user manual).
- Fold the footrest plate(s) upwards to avoid resting on them.
- If necessary, turn an armrest backward/upward to make space (see § 0).
- Transfer to or from the wheelchair using your own strength, or with the help of a companion(s) or lifting equipment.
Sitting on the Wheelchair
- Sit on the seat with your lower back against the backrest.
- Lower the footrest plate(s) and place your feet on them.
- Lower the armrests, if applicable.
- Ensure the top of your legs is horizontal and your feet are in a comfortable position. Adjust if necessary (see § 3.6.4 and § 3.7.5).
- Ensure your arms are bent and resting comfortably on the armrests. Adjust if necessary (see § 3.7.1 and § 3.7.2).
Set in Stable Position
For transport and when crossing obstacles, the wheelchair must be set to maximize stability:
- Seat in horizontal position
- Backrest vertical
- Armrests in lower position
- Footrest plate folded upwards or set to a higher position to avoid hitting obstacles.
- Control console turned inwards.
3.6 Comfort Adjustments
[Attention] Risk of bodily or material damage
The following comfort adjustments can be made by a companion or caregiver. All other adjustments are made by your specialized dealer, in accordance with installation instructions (see Foreword). Always consider the range of motion of the footrest and control console to avoid injuring people or damaging nearby objects. Be careful not to pinch your fingers, clothing, or buckles during adjustment.
3.6.1 Operator Console
The operator console has a pivoting system and can be turned horizontally left/right. Grip the control support (2) under the operator console and move it left/right to the desired position.
3.6.2 Armrests
Position
The armrests can be rotated backward (upwards) to facilitate transfers on/off the seat.
- Gently lower the lever (3) of the toothed fixation (4). The armrest is unlocked (in the lower position).
- Rotate the armrest upward/backward to its final position.
- Pull the lever (3) to close the toothed fixation. The armrest is locked in its final position.
Angle
The same procedure is used to modify the armrest angle:
- Repeat the previous step 1.
- Then, hold the armrest in the desired position, locking it with the lever (3).
- Repeat the operation for the second armrest.
- Ensure both armrests have the same angle.
- Ensure both armrests are securely fixed.
3.6.3 Armrests (Handles)
The height (without transition) and angle (in 7.5° increments) of the armrests (5) can be adjusted:
- Turn the knob (6) a few turns counter-clockwise. To adjust the angle, turn it at least four turns.
- Slightly pull/push the armrest to adjust the height.
- Hold the armrest at the desired angle.
- Turn the knob clockwise until it is manually tightened.
- Repeat the operation for the second armrest.
- Ensure both armrests are securely fixed.
3.6.4 Footrest B06
To Remove
- Pull the footrest lever (7) and tilt it (8) outwards.
- Lift the footrest to remove it.
To Install
- Hold the footrest (8) on the side and insert it into its support (9).
- Tilt the footrest inwards until it locks into position.
3.6.5 Footrest Plate of B06
Angle
To modify the angle of the footrest plate (10):
- Loosen the knob (1) of the toothed fixation (12).
- Turn the footrest plate upwards/downwards and hold it at the desired position.
- Tighten the knob (11).
- Repeat the operation for the second footrest plate.
- Ensure both plates are securely fixed.
3.6.6 Legrests BZ7-BZ8
- Release the lever (13) at the rotation point.
- Adjust the legrest inclination by raising/lowering the footrest plates (between 100° - 190°).
- Retighten the lever (13) firmly by hand.
- Repeat this operation for the second legrest. Ensure both legrests are securely fixed.
3.6.7 Headrest L58 (if applicable)
To Mount:
- Loosen the knob (14).
- Mount the square tube of the headrest (15) into the designated support (16).
- Firmly retighten the knob (14).
To remove, repeat the steps above in reverse order.
To Adjust Height/Depth:
- Loosen the levers (17).
- Set the headrest to the desired position.
- Firmly retighten the levers (17).
3.6.8 Spring
For your comfort, the spring tension can be adjusted. The springs are located at the rear of the electric wheelchair, behind the battery housing.
- If you turn the adjustment ring (18) to the left, the spring will lengthen and soften.
- If you turn the adjustment ring (18) to the right, the spring will shorten and tighten.
3.7 Battery Status and Charging
[Warning] Risk of injury and damage due to fire
- Use only the battery charger supplied with the wheelchair. Using any other charger can be dangerous (fire hazard).
- The battery charger is intended only for charging the batteries supplied with the wheelchair, not for other batteries.
- Do not modify any parts, such as cables, plugs, or the battery charger. Never open or change the battery or connection points.
- Protect the battery and its charger from flames, high and low temperatures (see Chapter 5), humidity, sunlight, and significant shocks (e.g., drops). Do NOT use the battery if this has occurred.
- Charge the battery using the charger indoors, in a well-ventilated space, and out of reach of children.
- Read the battery charger user manual before charging the wheelchair battery. For more information, contact your specialized dealer or visit our website: www.vermeiren.com.
[Attention] Risk of damage
- The battery's self-discharge and the resting current of connected users will slowly drain the battery. The battery can suffer irreversible damage if it is completely discharged. Therefore, ensure it is recharged in time (see the control console user manual):
- For intensive use (long distances, daily use): Recharge immediately after use.
- For moderate use (short distances, daily or a few times a week): Recharge when the battery indicator shows 50% autonomy.
- For limited use or storage: Recharge once a week.
- Read the storage and maintenance instructions in § 4.1 and technical details in § 5.
- Disconnect the battery charger only when the battery is fully charged (see symbols on the charger).
- Do not recharge batteries below 0°C. Move the battery to a warmer location and start charging.
- Clear the battery connection point of any dust or contamination.
- If a problem prevents battery charging according to these instructions, contact your specialized dealer.
- For instructions on changing batteries, see the installation manual.
- For all information on battery status indication, read the control console user manual.
- It is recommended to disconnect the battery charger from the mains when not in use to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
To recharge the battery:
- FIRST, plug the battery charger into a 230 V AC power outlet. Use the battery charger directly, without an extension cord, on the power supply (without a timer).
- Connect the adapter to the control console.
- Wait until the battery is fully recharged. Consult the battery charger manual for more information.
- Unplug the battery charger.
- Remove the battery charger from the outlet. Let it cool down and store it in the pouch.
4 Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures your wheelchair is preserved and operates optimally. For the maintenance manual, consult www.vermeiren.fr.
4.1 Maintenance
[Attention] Risk of bodily or material damage
Repairs and replacements can only be carried out by trained persons, and only original Vermeiren replacement parts may be used.
[Information icon] The last page of this manual contains a registration form for the specialized dealer to record each service. Read the battery charger user manual regarding maintenance.
Before Each Use
Inspect the following points:
- All parts: present and not damaged or worn.
- All parts: clean (see § 4.2.2).
- Wheels, seat, legrests, armrests, footrest plate, and headrest (if applicable): securely fixed.
- Battery status: charge the battery if necessary (see §3.7).
- Control console, battery, power module, motors, battery charger, lighting, and relevant cables: no damage, such as frayed, broken, or exposed wires.
- Condition of wheels/tires (see § 4.2.1).
- Condition of chassis elements: no deformation, instability, weakness, or loose connections.
- Seat, backrest, armrests, legrests, and headrest (if applicable): no excessive wear (such as dents, damage, or tears).
Contact your specialized dealer for any repairs or parts replacements.
Monthly
If your wheelchair is stored for an extended period, you must always charge the batteries every month. It is also possible to leave the battery charger connected to the battery and the mains during this period. For more information, see § 3.7.
Annually or More Often
Have your wheelchair inspected and serviced by your specialized dealer at least once a year, or more frequently. The minimum maintenance frequency depends on usage and should be determined in agreement with your specialized dealer.
In Case of Storage
Ensure your wheelchair is stored in a dry environment to prevent mold formation and damage to the upholstery.
4.2 Maintenance Instructions
4.2.1 Wheels and Tires
[Information icon] Correct brake operation depends on the condition of the tires, which can change due to wear and contamination (water, oil, mud...).
- Remove threads, hair, sand, and fibers from your wheels.
- Check tire tread depth. If the tread depth is less than 1 mm, the tires must be replaced. Contact your specialized dealer for this.
- Inflate tires to the correct pressure (see tire pressure markings).
- For instructions on changing tires, see the installation manual.
4.2.2 Cleaning
[Attention] Risk of damage due to moisture
- Keep the control console clean and protect it from water and rain.
- Never use a hose or high-pressure cleaner to clean the wheelchair.
Wipe all rigid parts of the wheelchair with a damp (not wet) cloth. If necessary, use a mild soap suitable for lacquers and synthetics. The upholstery can be cleaned with lukewarm water and mild soap. Do not use abrasive cleaning products.
Keep the battery charger ventilation openings clean and free of accumulated dust. Blow away dust and clean the battery charger opening with a slightly damp cloth if necessary.
4.2.3 Disinfection
[Attention] Risk of damage
Disinfection can only be performed by qualified persons. Consult your specialized dealer regarding this.
4.3 Troubleshooting
Even with appropriate use, technical problems may occur. In such cases, contact your local specialized dealer.
[Warning] Risk of injury and damage to the wheelchair
- NEVER attempt to repair your wheelchair yourself.
- For control console malfunctions, contact your specialized dealer. They will decide if the console needs reprogramming.
In case of a fault, an error code will be displayed on the control console.
[Information icon] For an overview of all error codes on the control console, please read the control console user manual.
The following symptoms may indicate a serious problem. Therefore, always contact your specialized dealer if you detect any of the following anomalies:
- Abnormal noise;
- Cut/damaged cable harnesses;
- Cracked or broken connectors;
- Uneven wear on the tread of one of the tires;
- Jerky movements;
- Wheelchair deviates to one side;
- Damaged or broken wheel assemblies;
- Wheelchair does not turn on (blown fuse);
- Wheelchair is powered but does not move (see 4.3.1).
4.3.1 Overload Protection
To protect the motor from overload, the motor will automatically cut out in the following situations:
- When climbing or descending slopes that exceed the maximum inclination indicated in Chapter 5.
- When the nominal load exceeds its upper limit.
To use the wheelchair again: place the joystick in the neutral position, eliminate the overload, and wait for the motor to cool down.
4.4 Expected Lifespan
The wheelchair is designed for an average lifespan of 5 years. Depending on the frequency of use, driving conditions, and maintenance, the lifespan of your wheelchair may increase or decrease.
4.5 Re-use
Before each re-use, have the wheelchair disinfected, inspected, and serviced in accordance with the instructions in §4.1 and §4.2.
4.6 Disposal
At the end of its lifespan, your wheelchair must be disposed of in accordance with local environmental legislation. It is recommended to dismantle the wheelchair to facilitate the transport of recyclable materials.
5 Technical Specifications
The technical details below apply only to this wheelchair, with standard settings and under optimal ambient conditions. Please consider these details during use. The values are no longer valid if your wheelchair has been modified, damaged, or shows serious wear. Remember that driving performance is influenced by ambient temperature, humidity, slopes (uphill or downhill), surface type, and battery condition.
Table 1: Technical Specifications
Description | Specifications |
---|---|
Brand | Vermeiren |
Type | Electric wheelchair, class B |
Model | Forest 3 |
Max. patient weight | 130 kg |
Driving Characteristics | |
Maximum speed | 6 km/h | 10 km/h | 14 km/h |
Range* | Approx. 50 km (80Ah) | Approx. 42 km (80Ah) | Approx. 37 km (80Ah) |
Acoustic level | < 65 dB (A) |
Ground clearance | 74 mm |
Maximum safe gradient | 9° |
Obstacle clearance | 100 mm |
Minimum turning radius | Approx. 1320 mm |
Overturning width | 1200 mm |
Electrical Characteristics | |
Drive motors | 2 x 220W or 2 x 350W with electromagnetic braking system |
Batteries | 2 x 12V AGM / 80 Ah / 20 h |
Battery charger | Refer to battery charger manual (6A or 8A); IP21; Insulation Class II |
Fuse | 150 Amp |
Degree of protection | IPX4 |
Dimensions | With manual backrest and seat | With electric backrest and seat |
Seat plane angle | 1.7° - 5.7° - 9.7° | 0° - 15° |
Backrest angle, adjustable (angle between seat and backrest) | 96°-103°-109° - 115° - 121° - 129° | 90° ... 137° |
Total length (footrest in standard depth) | 1120mm (with seat angle of 0°) |
Total height (backrest not reclined) | 1036 mm (with seat angle of 0°) |
Folded/dismantled length (footrests dismantled, console turned inwards) | 836 mm (with seat angle of 0°) |
Effective seat depth | 420 mm - 520 mm |
Seat cushion thickness | 70 mm |
Seat surface height at the front edge (without seat cushion) | 415 mm (with seat angle of 0°) |
Adjustable seat width | 400 mm - 450 mm - 500 mm |
Total width (depending on seat width) | 595 mm - 610 mm - 650 mm |
Backrest height | 625 mm |
Backrest padding height | 530 mm |
Angle between footrest B06 and seat | 85° |
Distance between footrest plate and seat | 326 mm - 350 mm |
Footrest plate depth | 337 mm - 357 mm |
Footrest plate angle | From -50° to 60° |
Armrest angle | From 11° to 26° | 101° (folding) |
Weight | |
Total mass | 139 kg (for 450 mm seat width, depending on accessories) |
Mass of the heaviest part (which can be dismantled or removed) | Base chassis: 135.10 kg |
Mass of parts that can be dismantled or removed | Footrests B06: 1.95 kg / piece |
Wheels | |
Rear wheel diameter (number) | Race Profile: 350 x 70 mm air (2) | Block Profile: 342 x 70 mm air (2) |
Tire pressure, rear wheels** | Max. 3.5 bar |
Front wheel diameter (number) | 260 x 85 mm air (2); 230 x 65 mm air (2); 200 x 50 mm air (2) |
Tire pressure, front wheels** | Max. 3.5 bar |
Environment | |
Storage and operating temperature | +5 °C to +41 °C |
Electronics operating temperature | -10°C to +40°C |
Storage and operating humidity | 30% | 70% |
We reserve the right to make technical modifications. Measurement tolerance ± 15 mm / 1.5 kg / 1.5°. * Theoretical range will be reduced if the wheelchair is frequently used on inclines, uneven terrain, or curbs. ** As different tires may be used, check the correct tire pressure for the tire you are using.
Service Registration
This section contains a service registration form for dealers to record inspections, servicing, repairs, or disinfection.
Contact Information
Vermeiren GROUP
Vermeirenplein 1 / 15
2920 Kalmthout
BE
Website: www.vermeiren.com
Instructions for Distributors: This instruction manual is part of the product and must accompany every product sold.
Version: F, 2022-05 | Basic UDI: 5415174 122127Forest 3 KF
All rights reserved, including translation.