Invacare® LINX Control System
User Manual for DLX-REM110, DLX-REM211, DLX-REM216, DLX-REM050
1 General Information
1.1 About This Manual
This document supplements the product's user documentation. It is part of a product that complies with Class I medical device requirements. Invacare declares that the radio equipment type DLX-REM110, DLX-REM211, and DLX-REM216 complies with Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the EU Declaration of Conformity is available at www.invacare.eu.com. Use this component only after reading and understanding this manual. Consult a healthcare professional for advice. This document may contain sections not applicable to your specific component, as it applies to all available models.
Invacare reserves the right to change component specifications without prior notice.
Always ensure you have the latest version of this manual, available in PDF format on the Invacare website. For assistance, contact Invacare.
1.2 Symbols in This Manual
Symbols and signal words are used to indicate hazardous situations that could result in injury or property damage.
- ⚠️ WARNING! Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
- ⚠️ CAUTION! Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
- ℹ️ IMPORTANT! Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.
- ℹ️ Notes and Recommendations: Useful tips, recommendations, and information for effective and trouble-free use.
1.3 Warranty
Warranty terms and conditions are part of the general terms and conditions specified for each country where the product is sold.
1.4 Service Life
The estimated service life of this product is five years, provided it is used strictly according to its intended purpose and all operating and maintenance requirements are followed. The service life may be longer with careful use and maintenance, or shorter under improper use or extreme conditions. These estimates do not constitute an additional warranty.
1.5 Limitation of Liability
Invacare is not liable for damages arising from:
- Non-compliance with manual requirements.
- Improper use.
- Normal wear and tear.
- Incorrect assembly or setup by the purchaser or a third party.
- Technical modifications.
- Unauthorized changes and/or use of unsuitable spare parts.
1.6 General Safety Rules
- ⚠️ WARNING! Risk of injury or damage to the powered wheelchair. Do not install, service, or operate this equipment without reading and understanding all instructions and manuals for this product and any other products used with it. Follow instructions in the user manuals.
- ⚠️ WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Connector contacts on cables connected to the power module may remain live even when the system is switched off. Ensure live contacts are protected to prevent contact with people or materials that could cause a short circuit. When disconnecting live contacts, cover or secure them with non-conductive material.
- ⚠️ WARNING! Risk of serious injury or damage to the powered wheelchair or surrounding property. Incorrect settings can make the wheelchair uncontrollable or unstable, leading to hazardous situations like accidents. Adjustments to operating parameters should only be made by qualified technicians who fully understand programming, setup, wheelchair configuration, and user capabilities. Adjustments must be performed in a dry environment.
- ⚠️ WARNING! Risk of injury or damage to the powered wheelchair. Risk of unintended movement due to loose personal items (e.g., jewelry, scarves) getting caught on the joystick. Ensure no foreign objects obstruct the joystick when the power is on. Switch off the wheelchair immediately to stop any movement.
- ⚠️ CAUTION! Risk of injury due to unintended movement. If the wheelchair has a gyroscope function, it is recommended to use it with the gyroscope disabled when transporting the wheelchair in a moving vehicle (boat, bus, train) as the gyroscope function may be impaired, causing unintended movement. Use the drive function with the gyroscope disabled. If the wheelchair is not equipped with this function, contact your Invacare supplier.
- ⚠️ CAUTION! Risk of injury from contact with hot surfaces. The remote control module may become hot from prolonged sun exposure. Do not leave the wheelchair in direct sunlight for extended periods.
- ℹ️ IMPORTANT! Touching connector contacts may cause contamination or damage from electrostatic discharge. Do not touch connector contacts.
- ℹ️ IMPORTANT! None of the internal components are user-serviceable. Do not open or disassemble any housing.
2 Components
2.1 User Interface DLX-REM110
- Drive function
- Seat function
Diagram shows the DLX-REM110 remote control with labeled components: A - Power/Status button, B - Battery Charge Indicator, C - Speed Dial, D - Joystick, E - Sound Signal.
2.2 User Interface DLX-REM211SS
- Drive function
- Seat function
Diagram shows the DLX-REM211SS remote control with labeled components: A - Power/Status button, B - Battery Charge Indicator, C - Speed Dial, D - Connection Indicator, E - Seat Function Buttons, F - Drive/Mechanism Status Indicator, G - Sound Signal, H - Joystick, I - Drive Function Indicator, J - Drive Function Buttons.
2.3 User Interface DLX-REM216
- Drive function
- Seat function
- Lighting system
Diagram shows the DLX-REM216 remote control with labeled components: A - Power/Status button, B - Battery Charge Indicator, C - Speed Dial, D - Connection Indicator, E - Seat Function Buttons, F - Drive/Mechanism Status Indicator, G - Headlights and Right Turn Signal, H - Sound Signal, I - Joystick, J - Warning Lights and Left Turn Signal, K - Drive Function Indicator, L - Drive Function Buttons.
2.4 User Interface DLX-REM050 (for attendant control)
- Attendant control module with drive function
Diagram shows the DLX-REM050 remote control with labeled components: A - Power/Status button, B - Speed Dial, C - Sound Signal, D - Battery Charge Indicator, E - Joystick.
2.5 Status Indicator
The status indicator is located in the center of the power button. If the LINX remote control module is not powered on, the status indicator is off. When powered on and no system faults are present, the indicator is green. If a fault occurs during power-on, the indicator blinks red. The number of blinks indicates the fault type (see Section 5.1.1 Fault Codes and Diagnostic Codes, page 28). If the system cannot move due to a fault, the battery indicator blinks continuously.
2.6 Battery Charge Indicator
The battery charge indicator shows the battery's charge level.
Visual representation of battery levels using LED indicators:
- Maximum battery: Two green, two yellow, and one red LED illuminated.
- Reduced battery: Red, yellow, and one green LED illuminated.
- Reduced battery: Red and two yellow LEDs illuminated.
- Reduced battery: Red and one yellow LED illuminated. Battery needs charging soon.
- Very low battery: Only the red LED is illuminated. Battery needs immediate charging.
2.7 Product Markings
Diagram shows various product markings:
- Marking A: ⚠️ Warning symbol indicating the need to read the user manual before operating the module.
- Marking B: IPX4 rating, indicating the degree of protection against external influences (water splashes).
- Marking C: WEEE symbol (♻️) indicating compliance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive.
- Marking D: Warranty void seal indicator.
- Marking E: Dynamic Controls logo and website (www.dynamiccontrols.com).
- Marking F: Barcode and serial number (e.g., SIN: A14177143).
- Marking G: Part number.
- Marking H: Fuel pump symbol (⛽) indicating the charging port.
- Labels for H: 1. Hardware version, 2. Main hardware version, 3. Additional hardware version, 4. Software version, 5. Main software version, 6. Additional software version.
This product is supplied by a manufacturer committed to environmental protection. Dispose of the product responsibly at the end of its life cycle by taking it to a recycling point.
3 Setup
3.1 General Information on Installation
The tasks in this section must be performed by qualified and authorized service specialists during initial installation. They should not be performed by the user.
3.1.1 Input/Output Data for Condition-Based Control
The LINX system supports Input/Output (I/O) data for condition-based control, expanding the capabilities of existing models. This allows one input action to trigger one or more output actions based on specified conditions.
Condition-based control offers two main advantages: one input can activate multiple outputs, and input data can be overloaded. For example, a passenger button used to stop the wheelchair could also activate a seat function when the system is in a specific state.
The system allows for three types of rules:
- Always rules: One input activates one or more outputs.
- Conditional rules: One input activates one or more outputs if specified conditions are met.
- If/Else rules: One input activates an output if a condition is met, otherwise, an alternative output is activated if the condition is not met.
3.2 Electrical Wiring
For safe and reliable operation, follow basic electrical wiring principles. Cables must be securely fastened between connectors and at bends to prevent flexing stress on the connectors.
⚠️ WARNING! Risk of injury and damage to the remote control module. Damaged cables increase electrical resistance, potentially causing localized heating, sparks, or electrical arcs, which could ignite surrounding materials. Ensure all power cables, including the busbar, are protected from damage and contact with flammable materials during installation.
Ensure all cables are adequately tensioned and do not exceed their mechanical limits. Protect connectors and sockets from splashes and water. Cable sockets should be positioned horizontally or directed downwards. Ensure all connectors are fully plugged in.
⚠️ CAUTION! Cables and remote control modules can be damaged if not positioned correctly. Route and position cables and modules to avoid physical stress or damage, such as snagging, crushing, external object impact, or friction. Ensure cables do not extend beyond the wheelchair and are protected from potential collisions with external objects. Exercise particular care with wheelchairs featuring moving structures, such as seat elevators.
⚠️ WARNING! Risk of injury or damage due to electric shock. Prolonged user contact with a cable can wear down its insulation, increasing the risk of short circuits. Do not route cables where they may be subject to prolonged user contact. After installing the busbar, avoid excessive tension on cables and connectors. Minimize cable twisting wherever possible to increase service life and reduce the risk of accidental damage.
ℹ️ IMPORTANT! Repeated bending can damage the busbar. Use a cable carrier to support the busbar in areas where it bends regularly. The maximum stretch of the carrier should be less than the busbar length. The force applied for bending the cable should not exceed 10 N.
3.3 Connecting the Remote Control Module
⚠️ CAUTION! Risk of unintended stops. If the remote control module cable is damaged, it may disconnect during movement, causing the module to lose power, shut down unexpectedly, and result in an unintended stop. Always check the remote control module's plug for damage. If damaged, contact your supplier immediately.
ℹ️ IMPORTANT! The remote control module plug can only be inserted in one direction. Do not force the connection.
- Press gently to connect the remote control module plug to the socket until it clicks.
4 Usage
4.1 Operating the Remote Control Module
The control system always starts in Drive function mode 1, making the wheelchair ready for movement. For remote controls with multiple drive functions (DLX-REM211 or DLX-REM216), the drive function can be changed. See Section 4.4 Activating Drive Functions, page 20, for details.
Turning the Remote Control Module On/Off
- Press the power button Ⓐ.
- The system will turn off, and the status indicator will extinguish.
The power button can also be used for an emergency stop (see Section 4.7 Emergency Stop, page 23) and for locking the system (see Section 4.2 Locking and Unlocking the Remote Control, page 16).
4.1.1 Joystick Operation
The joystick controls the direction and speed of the wheelchair.
Diagram shows the joystick. When the joystick is tilted from the neutral (center) position, the wheelchair moves in the direction of the tilt. The speed is proportional to the tilt angle; the further the joystick is tilted, the faster the wheelchair moves. Returning the joystick to neutral slows down and stops the wheelchair. Releasing the joystick from any position other than neutral returns it to neutral, slowing and stopping the wheelchair.
The joystick can also be used to wake the system from sleep mode if this feature is enabled by the supplier. See Section 4.9 Sleep Mode, page 24.
4.1.2 Maximum Speed Control
The speed dial allows you to limit the maximum speed of the vehicle (i.e., the speed at maximum joystick deflection) to suit your needs and environmental conditions.
Diagram shows the speed dial (labeled A) with 10 incremental positions, from lowest to highest speed.
4.2 Locking and Unlocking the Remote Control
The locking function is disabled by default. Contact your supplier to change the configuration. If enabled, the system can be locked and unlocked using the following sequence:
Locking the Remote Control Module
Diagram shows the remote control. To lock:
- Press the power button Ⓐ and hold for over four seconds while the remote control module is on.
When entering the locked state, the battery charge indicator signals this with three flashes of the red, yellow, and green LEDs (leftmost, middle, and rightmost).
Unlocking the Remote Control Module
Diagram shows the remote control. To unlock:
- Press the power button Ⓐ.
- Press the sound signal button Ⓑ twice within ten seconds.
If the unlocking sequence is performed incorrectly or the power button is pressed again before completing the sequence, the system will return to the locked state.
If the DLX-REM050 attendant control module is used, it can also be locked or unlocked. The DLX-REM050 module automatically controls this when unlocking the system. Refer to Section 4.11 Attendant Control Module (DLX-REM050), page 25, for information on the DLX-REM050, and the user manual for the DLX-ACU200 module.
4.3 Operating Seat Functions with Electric Actuation
Activating Seat Functions
Diagram shows the remote control with seat function buttons.
- Press the seat function button Ⓐ. The wheelchair will switch to seat function mode, and the drive/mechanism status indicator © will illuminate yellow.
- Press seat function selection buttons Ⓐ and Ⓑ, or move the joystick left or right several times until the desired seat function is highlighted. Refer to the Seat Functions table.
- To activate the actuator, tilt the joystick forward or backward.
The distance the joystick is tilted determines the movement speed. A slight tilt results in slow movement; a full tilt results in faster movement.
Table of Seat Functions:
Seat Function | DLX-REM050 | DLX-REM110/211/216 |
---|---|---|
Powered Seat Tilt | Diagram of seat tilt. |
Diagram of seat tilt. |
Powered Backrest Recline | Diagram of backrest recline. |
Not available |
Seat Elevator | Diagram of seat elevator. |
Not specified |
Left or Central Powered Leg Rest | Diagram of powered leg rest. |
|
Right Powered Leg Rest | Diagram of powered leg rest. |
|
Both Powered Leg Rests | Diagram of powered leg rests. |
4.3.1 10-Setting Switch Module
To move a specific seat element, press and hold the corresponding button. The seat will move as long as the button is pressed. Use the buttons in the bottom row to return the seat to its home position.
Diagram shows buttons for seat movement. Buttons A-J control various seat movements: A - Tilt down, B - Tilt up, C - Leg rest lift up, D - Leg rest down, E - Left leg rest lift up, F - Left leg rest down, G - Right leg rest lift up, H - Right leg rest down, I - Recline back, J - Recline forward.
4.3.2 Speed Reduction and Seat Function Lock
Speed reduction and seat function lock capabilities are not available on all Invacare wheelchairs.
Speed Reduction
If the leg rest is raised beyond a certain point, the electronic drive unit significantly reduces the wheelchair's speed. When speed reduction is active, the drive mode can only be used for low-speed movement. To resume normal speed, adjust the leg rest until speed reduction is deactivated.
The speed reduction is indicated on the status display. If the leg rest is raised beyond a certain point, the leg rest symbol and drive symbol will flash. This pulsing flash continues during movement, indicating speed reduction, until the limitation is deactivated.
Seat Function Lock
Tilt Limit
The tilt limit switch is a function designed to prevent the backrest angle from exceeding a preset maximum tilt angle if the leg rest is raised beyond a certain point. The electronic drive unit stops automatically, and the seat tilt or backrest symbol starts flashing.
4.4 Activating Drive Functions
The selection key for drive functions allows you to choose one of three drive functions configured by Invacare, which can be adjusted by the supplier to your needs.
Diagram shows the remote control. To activate drive functions:
- Press the drive function key Ⓐ. The remote control module switches to drive function mode, the drive function indicator © shows the selected function (1, 2, or 3), and the drive status wheel illuminates green.
- Press the drive function selection keys Ⓐ or Ⓑ until the desired drive function is highlighted.
The drive function indicator © shows the drive function:
Visual representation of Drive Function 1, Drive Function 2, Drive Function 3 indicators.
4.5 Sound Signals
In addition to visual feedback for seat and drive functions, the REM2XX remote control modules can be configured with sound signals. Sound signals are sounds emitted by the remote control module's speaker in response to specific system events or navigation actions. Sound signal configuration must be performed only by a qualified technician using the LINX access tool (iOS or PC). Sound signals are particularly useful for:
- Visually impaired users.
- Users who cannot see the remote control module.
- Users who want additional feedback on their actions without constantly monitoring the remote control module.
There are two types of sound signals:
- Event signals: Occur in response to system events.
- Navigation signals: Occur in response to navigation actions.
Not all system events have a sound signal. For example, entering sleep mode does not produce a sound signal.
Examples of sound signals: Event signals consist of two or three notes played when transitioning to a specific state. Navigation signals are played in response to function activation. Function identifiers provide additional audio feedback after a navigation signal.
The manual provides examples of drive functions and their identifiers, showing how profile index, function, and identifier are represented by musical notes.
4.6 Lighting System Control
Headlight Control
If you are operating outdoors in low visibility or darkness, turn on the headlights.
Diagram shows the remote control. Press and release the headlight activation button Ⓐ. The headlights will turn on or off.
Hazard Light Control
Diagram shows the remote control. Press and release the hazard light button Ⓐ. The hazard warning lights will turn on or off.
4.7 Emergency Stop
Pressing the power button Ⓐ during movement will initiate an emergency stop. The remote control module will then be turned off.
4.8 Sound Signal
To activate the sound signal, press the sound signal button Ⓐ. The sound signal will sound as long as the button is pressed. The sound signal button is also used for unlocking the system. See Section 4.2 Locking and Unlocking the Remote Control, page 16.
4.9 Sleep Mode
Sleep mode is not a factory setting but can be activated by the supplier. If activated, the system enters sleep mode after a period of inactivity. The supplier can set this period. Transition to sleep mode is indicated by the gradual dimming of the LED indicators on the remote control module. While in sleep mode, the joystick, sound signal button, speed dial, and power button remain operational. The system can be woken from sleep mode by pressing the power button or moving the joystick.
4.10 Battery Charging
⚠️ WARNING! Risk of injury, death, or product damage. Improperly placed power cords can cause tripping, entanglement, or strangulation, leading to product damage, injury, or death. Ensure all power cords are properly routed and secured. Exercise particular care when charging the wheelchair near children, pets, or individuals with limited physical or cognitive abilities.
- Before charging, turn the power off and then on again if the wheelchair has not been used for 24 hours. This allows the improved battery sensor to register voltage accurately. If it remains off, the battery sensor will not show the charging status. Refer to the charger's user manual for more information on charging status.
- Connect the battery charger to the appropriate charging socket Ⓐ on the remote control module.
If the remote control module is powered on, the battery indicator will signal system connection to the charger by cyclically flashing indicators from left to right, then displaying the approximate battery charge status.
Visual representation of battery charging status indicators:
- Battery Charge Status 1: Red LED illuminated.
- Battery Charge Status 2: Red and one yellow LED illuminated.
- Battery Charge Status 3: Red and two yellow LEDs illuminated.
- Battery Charge Status 4: Red, yellow, and one green LED illuminated.
- Fully Charged: Two green, two yellow, and one red LED illuminated.
For information on drive lock mode, see Section 5.3 Drive Lock Indication, page 31.
Battery Synchronization
For NEW batteries only. The wheelchair must be powered on during charging to ensure correct battery level display. New batteries must be fully charged. Battery synchronization must be performed within 24 hours of powering on the wheelchair. Synchronization procedures are found in the LINX service manual and should be performed by a supplier or qualified technician.
4.10.1 Battery Alarm Signals
High Voltage Warning
Batteries are overcharged. All LEDs are illuminated, and the green LED flashes. 1. Disconnect the charger.
Low Voltage Warning
Batteries are discharged. Only one red LED is illuminated and flashing. 1. Turn off the wheelchair. 2. Charge the batteries immediately.
4.11 Attendant Control Module (DLX-REM050)
The power button on the attendant control module has a label reminding the user to read the relevant user manual before first use. The label can be removed after reading the manual.
The attendant control module is a component that allows an attendant to interact with the wheelchair's control system. If properly configured and connected, the attendant can control the drive function.
Changing the Module Controlling the System
To change the primary remote control module, turn off the system with any module, then turn it back on using the module that should take control.
Indicators for Priority Remote Control Module
- Priority Module: All indicators, including the battery charge indicator, operate normally.
- Non-Priority Module: The battery charge indicator is off, but all other indicators operate normally.
Troubleshooting and Indicators
System faults with two remote control modules are indicated by indicators on both modules.
If a fault occurs in one of the modules, the system can be controlled by the other module. However, if the power button on the priority module fails, the system will not operate. If any remote control module is disconnected after the system is turned off, the other module will display a fault signal (blinking code 2, see Section 5.1.1 Fault Codes and Diagnostic Codes, page 28) upon system power-on, indicating that two modules were expected. To resolve this, turn the system off and on again using the power button.
5 Troubleshooting
5.1 Troubleshooting
If a fault occurs in the electronic system, use the following guide to identify the source of the fault. Before starting diagnostics, ensure the electronic drive unit is powered on.
If the status display is off:
- Check if the electronic drive unit is powered on.
- Check if all cables are correctly connected.
- Ensure the batteries are not discharged.
If the status display shows a fault number:
- Proceed to the next section.
5.1.1 Fault Codes and Diagnostic Codes
If the system is powered on and a fault occurs, the status indicator blinks red. The number of blinks indicates the fault type.
The table below describes fault indicators and possible actions. The list of actions is not a strict order but recommendations. Any of these recommended actions may help resolve the problem. If in doubt, contact your supplier.
Table of Fault Codes:
Blink Code | Fault Description | Recommended Action | |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Remote control module fault |
|
Contact supplier. |
2 | Network or configuration fault |
|
|
3 | Drive fault 1 |
|
Contact supplier. |
4 | Drive fault 2 |
|
Contact supplier. |
5 | Drive 1: magnetic brake fault |
|
Contact supplier. |
6 | Drive 2: magnetic brake fault |
|
Contact supplier. |
7 | Module fault (not remote control module) |
|
|
5.2 OON ("Out Of Neutral")
OON ("Out Of Neutral") is a safety function that prevents accidental movement or stopping of the wheelchair in the following cases:
- When the system is powered on.
- After function switching.
- When the system exits a hold or drive lock state.
OON Warning for Drive Control
The joystick must be set to the central position in the following cases:
- When transitioning from a hold or drive lock state.
If the joystick is not returned to the central position, an OON warning for drive control will be displayed. The battery charge indicator and drive wheel indicator will flash continuously (all LEDs flash simultaneously and then turn off), warning the user. In this state, the wheelchair will not move. Returning the joystick to the central position clears the warning, and the wheelchair resumes normal movement.
OON Warning for Seat Control
When the system is powered on or after a function switch, direct access switches cannot be activated, otherwise an OON warning for seat control will be displayed.
If the switches are deactivated, the warning will disappear, and seat control commands will function normally. In case of an OON warning for seat control, the battery charge indicator and seat indicator will flash continuously (all LEDs flash simultaneously and then turn off), warning the user. In this state, seat control commands do not work. Deactivating the switches clears the warning, and seat control commands will function correctly.
5.3 Drive Lock Indication
In drive lock mode, the wheelchair cannot move when connected to the charger.
The drive lock mode is indicated by the battery indicator flashing sequentially from right to left. Sequential flashing will continue until the fault condition is resolved.
5.4 Critical Voltage
When the battery voltage drops below the critical voltage level, the following actions will occur:
- The status indicator will flash red (blink code 2, see Section 5.1.1 Fault Codes and Diagnostic Codes, page 28).
- The red LED indicator on the battery indicator will flash.
- A sound signal will sound every ten seconds.
6 Technical Specifications
Mechanical Characteristics
Characteristic | Specification |
---|---|
Operating, Storage, and Humidity Conditions | |
Operating temperature range (ISO 7176–9) | –25 °C to +50 °C |
Recommended storage temperature | 15 °C |
Storage temperature range (ISO 7176–9) | –40 °C to +65 °C |
Operating humidity range (ISO 7176-9) | 0–90% Relative Humidity |
Ingress Protection | IPX4¹ |
¹ IPX4 protection means the electrical system is protected against water splashes.
Operating Forces
Component | DLX-REM050 | DLX-REM110/211/216 |
---|---|---|
Joystick | 4.4 N | 1.9 N |
Power Button | 2.5 N | |
Speed Dial | 1.2 N | |
Sound Signal Button | 2.5 N |
Electrical Characteristics
Parameter | Min. | Nominal | Max. | Units |
---|---|---|---|---|
Operating Voltage (battery voltage) | 17 | 24 | 34 | V |
No-load current | - | 56 | - | mA at 24 V |
Quiescent current (when power is off) | - | - | 0.23 | mA at 24 V |