Carrot-III Special Needs Restraint

Introduction

The Carrot-III "Special Needs Restraint" is designed to provide extra support for children who have difficulty sitting correctly in conventional seats. Always consult your doctor to ensure this restraint system is suitable for your child, and read all instructions in this manual before use.

This is a universal restrained system for children, approved according to ECE R44/04 by the Kraftfahrtbundesamt (Number of approval: 44R – 04301283).

It holds an EU conformity declaration for medical products (according to the adandom II, V, VI and VIII of the EU guideline concerning medical products 93/42/EWG). The car seat Carrot 3 conforms with the equivalent rules of the medical product and the guideline 93/42 EWG. Production is controlled by a quality management system according to ISO 9100.

Sole importer in Europe: RehaNorm Bingen GmbH, Am Ockenheimer Graben 50, D-55411 Bingen. Phone: +49 6721 906-0, Fax: +49 6721 906-66, E-Mail: information@rehanorm.de, Internet: www.rehanorm.de

⚠️ WARNING! DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur:

• Use only with children weighing between 15 kg and 36 kg (Class II& III). Tested successfully with a 10 kg dummy and a 49 kg dummy. Legal situations in some countries (e.g., Germany) allow transport of children under 15 kg and young patients between 36 and 50 kg. In most countries, a doctor's written document is required stating it belongs to the special needs of the patient.
• Use forward-facing position only.
• Do not alter the construction of the Carrot 3 unless specifically authorized in this manual.
• Adjust belts snugly around the child. A snug strap should not allow slack or twist, and should not press on the child's flesh or push the body into an unnatural position.
• Secure the child seat with upper and lower fixing straps to the vehicle's seat, and always use the vehicle's lap shoulder (3-point) safety belts.
• Tighten the internal 5-point-belt-system and the car's 3-point-belt-system firmly.
• Follow all instructions on the child seat and in this manual.
• Use this child seat only with vehicles equipped with lap shoulder (3-point) safety belts approved by ECE regulation No.16 or equivalent standards.
• Rigid items and plastic parts must be located and installed so they are not liable to become trapped by a movable seat or door during everyday use.
• To prevent injury due to hidden damage, discontinue use after a moderate or severe crash.
• The child seat must not be used without the cover.
• The child seat cover should not be replaced with any other than the one recommended by the manufacturer.
• When not in use, store this manual in the pocket on the back.
• This child seat must not be used in homes, boats, or other non-certified applications.
• The back seat of a vehicle is the safest location for a properly installed child seat. Study and ensure your child's safety, and consult your vehicle owner's manual.
• Secure the child seat even when unoccupied. An unsecured child seat may injure vehicle occupants in a crash.
• When using with airbags, refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for installation instructions and precautions.
• Never use the adjuster strap to lift or carry the child seat, as this could damage the harness adjuster and webbing. Always carry the child seat by its shell.
• Do not disassemble the harness and straps. Never remove buckle tongues. If reassembled incorrectly, the child seat may not perform as intended.
• The primary protection in a collision is the vehicle body. A correctly installed child seat will substantially improve chances for survival in most crashes. Ensure all users understand correct usage.

Safety Information

Important Notes

• Verify the child seat is securely installed/fixed to the car seat with provided upper and lower fixing straps (or with ISOFIX Latch and Tether straps), and the harness is properly adjusted around the child each time.
• Adjust the harness to fit the child's clothing. Remove bulky coats/jackets before placing the child in the seat.
• Cover the child seat when parked in direct sunlight to prevent parts from becoming hot enough to burn the child.
• Store the child seat in a safe place when not in use. Avoid placing heavy objects on top.
• Do not leave children unattended in a vehicle, even for short periods.
• Do not attempt to disassemble any part of the child seat or alter the use of its harness or vehicle's seat belts, except as described in this manual.
• Do not leave loose objects (e.g., books, bags) in the back of a vehicle. Loose objects can cause serious injuries during sudden stops.
• Do not leave folding vehicle seats unlatched. A loose seat back could compromise the child seat's protective function during a sudden stop.
• Do not use any items to raise the child seat off the vehicle seat, except as described in this manual, as this could cause the seat to slide and not protect the child adequately in a crash.
• Do not allow children to play with the child seat.
• This child seat is recommended for use in an upright position.

Certification

This child seat system conforms to European Safety Standard, ECE R44/04 (Class II& III).

⚠️ WARNING! This child seat must be used forward-facing position only.

⚠️ WARNING! When reclining the backrest, release and loosen the harness straps first, then re-tighten the harness after reclining. Reclining without loosening the harness may cause pushing and/or choking your child.

Diagram illustrating loosening harness before reclining and re-tightening after reclining.

Features

The Carrot-III features:

• Head Pillow
• Head-Support
• Head-Support Fixing Strap
• Comfort Pads
• Body Balance Pads
• Seat
• Vehicle's Belt Path
• Shoulder Strap Hole
• Backrest
• Chest-Support
• Harness Straps
• Harness Yoke
• Lower Fixing Strap
• Harness Adjuster Strap
• Harness Buckle

Seat Configuration Options

The child seat can be configured with optional accessories for different extensions:

• With a 50mm extension
• With a 100mm extension
• With 150mm Extension
• With 150+50mm Extensions
• With 150+100mm Extensions

Dimensions are provided for various configurations, including Backrest Height and Seat Length.

Optional accessories include:

• Rodded Seat Extension L
• Shoulder Protector Wing (Optional Accessory)
• Seat Depth Adjuster Knob
• Comfort Cushion
• Lap Belt Guide

Installation

Standard Installation (Fixing Strap Installation)

If your vehicle is not equipped with LATCH anchors, use the fixing straps.

1. Install using the fixing straps provided at the upper and lower parts of the child seat.
2. Secure the Head-Support to the vehicle's headrest using the Head-Support fixing strap. Secure the child seat main body to the vehicle's seat using the lower fixing strap.
3. Attach the buckles, push the child seat firmly into the vehicle seat, and pull both adjuster straps tight to remove slack. Verify the child seat is secure.
4. Verify all connectors are secure.

• When installing on a passenger seat, move the seat backward as much as possible to avoid potential airbag impact.
• If the fixing strap is too short to fix sideways on a bench seat, use the strap vertically.
• For assistance with securing the child seat, contact the distributor or retailer.

Installation with ISOFIX (Latch and Tether Anchor Strap)

ISOFIX Latch-Connector Strap and ISOFIX Top-Tether Strap are optional accessories. Contact the distributor for purchase and installation.

• Consult your vehicle owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for approved tether-anchor locations and assistance when using ISOFIX.
• Ensure your vehicle's ISOFIX Latch connector and Top-Tether are compatible. If not, use the standard installation with provided straps.

ISOFIX Installation Steps:

1. Press and hold each Latch adjuster release button, then pull each Latch strap to full length.
2. Verify the Latch strap is not twisted and attach the Latch connector to the vehicle seat's Latch anchor. Ensure a positive click sound.
3. After latching both sides, push the child seat firmly into the vehicle seat while pulling each latch adjuster strap tight.
4. If equipped with an approved tether anchor, attach the tether hook to it. Remove all slack from the tether to secure.
5. Verify all connections are secure.

⚠️ WARNING! This child seat must be fixed and secured with provided upper and lower fixing straps (or ISOFIX Latch and Tether straps). Securing only with the vehicle's lap shoulder belt is insufficient and may cause the child seat to not perform as intended, risking Death or Serious Injury.

Functions

Head Section

Head-Support Adjustment

The Head-Support can be adjusted to fit the head shape of individual users for better fitting and protection.

Forward / Backward Position Adjustment

The Head-Support can be adjusted forward and backward by 15mm each. This adjustment requires fixing tools; contact the distributor for assistance.

Head Pillow Position Adjustment

The Head Pillow can be easily adjusted to the most favorable position for the user.

Shoulder Section

Harness Strap Adjustment

1. To tighten the harness strap, pull the harness adjuster strap.
2. To loosen the harness strap, press and hold the harness adjuster release lever (in Red) while pulling the shoulder harness strap.

Note: Do not pull the comfort pad on the harness strap; pull and loosen the harness strap only.

Comfort Pads

Comfort Pads can be adjusted to a favorable position by moving the Velcro tape attached to the back of the Head-Support.

Shoulder Protector Wing Set (Optional Accessory)

Adjusting Shoulder Width

Sideway extension adjustment of the Shoulder Protector Wing is available up to 100mm (50mm rightward and 50mm leftward), with five positions per 10mm each. Press and hold the shoulder width adjuster button (in Yellow) while pulling the wing outward to the desired position for secure and comfortable fit.

IMPORTANT: As the child grows, the Harness Strap and Head-Support may need adjustment to longer settings. Consider purchasing the "Shoulder Protector Wing Set" for larger children. Contact the distributor for installation and adjustment.

Chest Section

⚠️ WARNING! The top level of the Chest-Support must be lower than the throat area. Positioning it too high may risk choking your child.

Adjusting Chest-Support

While pushing down the Chest-Support Height Adjuster lever (in Yellow), adjust the height of the Chest-Support to the appropriate position.

Fastening / Releasing Harness Buckle

1. Hold the harness buckle with one hand and insert the buckle tongues with the other. A positive click confirms proper connection.
2. Brace the rear of the harness buckle with one hand. Press the release button and slide both tongues to remove them from the buckle.

Backrest Section

IMPORTANT:

• The height of the Shoulder Harness Strap moves with the height of the Backrest.
• The level of the Shoulder Harness Strap must be at or above the child's shoulders, parallel to level ground.

Adjusting Backrest Height

Release the lock by pushing the Backrest Height Adjuster Button on the lower Backrest, then adjust the Backrest height while pushing the button.

Backrest Extensions (50mm / 100mm) (Optional Accessory)

Backrest Extensions are provided to fill the space exposed between the backrest and the seat when the backrest is extended.

Seat Section

Adjusting Seat Length

When a child sits with bent knees, adjust the total seat length to be slightly shorter than the length from the pelvis to the rear knee. Release the lock by pushing the Seat Extension Adjuster Release Lever (in Orange) on the front of the child seat, and adjust the position of the Rodded Seat Extension while pushing the lever.

Seat Extensions (50mm / 100mm) (Optional Accessory)

Seat Extensions are provided to fill the space exposed around the metal rods when extending the Rodded Seat Extension and/or the Foot Rest.

Rodded Seat Extension-Long (Optional Accessory)

For legs stretched out, ensuring lower limbs are supported.

Rodded Seat Extension-Short (Optional Accessory)

For bent knees, providing support up to the femora.

Adjusting Seat Depth

Seat depth can be adjusted by a maximum of 35mm by changing the position of the Seat Depth Adjuster Knob. Contact the distributor for adjustment and assistance.

Foot Rest (Long / Medium / Short) (Optional Accessory)

Foot Rest with adjustable length feature, provided in Long, Medium, and Short versions.

Supporting Table (Optional Accessory)

The Supporting Table provides better security for the child's upper limb.

Seat Angle Adjuster Mat (Triangle Mat) (Optional Accessory)

Use to increase and adjust the height of the front area of the child seat for better security and stability of the child's seating.

Securing Your Child

Once the child seat is installed and adjusted, follow these instructions to secure the child:

• Loosen the harness by pressing the harness adjuster lever on the front of the child seat, then pull the shoulder straps forward.
• Unfasten the harness buckle by pressing the release button and sliding the tongues out.
• Move the harness straps to the side of the child seat and place the child in the seat.
• Position the harness straps around the child and fasten the harness buckle. A positive click confirms proper connection.
• Gently pull up on the harness straps to tighten the lap section, ensuring it fits low on the child's body.
• The 3-point-belt of the car is essential for holding the Carrot 3 and providing security.
• After positioning the child with the 5-point-belt, pull out the car's 3-point-belt, insert the buckle tongue, and route the hip belt through the lower belt guides (red plastic parts). Tighten the belt in the lower part, ensuring it is positioned as deep as possible to properly hold the hip.
• Route the shoulder belt of the 3-point-belt through the belt guide in the seat area and then across the child's chest. Tighten the belt in the shoulder area.
• Ensure the neck and face of the child are not harmed by the belt. The car's 3-point-belt buckle should be lower than the belt guide in the sitting area to prevent the child from slipping under the hip belt in a crash. If the buckle is higher, consult your dealer.
• The 3-point-belt must be tightened before the trip and lie closely on the user. Ensure the belt is not twisted.
• The chest support pad should be positioned to ensure the hip belt is as deep as possible and the 5-point-belt buckle is not under the car's belt.
• If unsure about the correct positioning of the Carrot 3 and child, consult your dealer.
• Fasten the vehicle's lap shoulder belt over the child seat, routing it through the child seat's belt paths.
• Verify the vehicle's lap shoulder belt is not twisted or sagging, and the child is properly secured.

⚠️ WARNING! It is your RESPONSIBILITY to use Vehicle's Safety Belts at the same time. Securing a child only with the 5-point harness straps is insufficient and legally required to use the vehicle's lap shoulder (3-point) safety belt simultaneously. Failure to do so could result in the child seat not performing as intended and risk Death or Serious Injury.

Figure A illustrates correct lap shoulder (3-point safety) belt positioning over the child seat.

IMPORTANT:

• Always pull on the harness after securing the child to ensure buckle tongues are secure.
• Always park the car safely before making adjustments, including reclining the seat. Adjusting/handling the seat during driving risks DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY.
• During driving, the child seat should be in the most upright position possible. Excessive recline could prevent the seat from performing as intended in a collision.

⚠️ WARNING! When reclining the backrest, release and loosen the harness straps first, then re-tighten the harness after reclining. Reclining without loosening the harness may cause pushing and/or choking your child.

Care and Maintenance

Cover Removal

Do not attempt to remove or replace the cover yourself; it is complicated and requires equipment. Contact the distributor for removal or replacement.

Do not disassemble the harness or remove buckle tongues. If reassembled incorrectly, the child seat may not perform as intended.

Cleaning the Cover, Pillows and Pads

• Cover: SPONGE CLEAN with cold water and mild soap. TOWEL DRY.
• Pillow and Pads/Cushions: HAND WASH with cold water and mild soap. LINE or LIE FLAT DRY to prevent shrinking.
• Do not bleach, machine wash, machine dry, or iron.
• Regular cleaning is important, but washing may damage fabrics. Replace if fabric is damaged. Periodical replacement is recommended.

A Click Sound of the Harness Buckle

Periodically check the harness buckle's performance, especially if the child eats or drinks in the seat. If a positive click is not heard, the harness buckle needs replacement. Contact the distributor.

The Harness and The Straps

Do not disassemble the harness or straps. Never remove buckle tongues. If reassembled incorrectly, the child seat may not perform as intended.

Product Dimensions

Diagrams illustrating the dimensions and different configurations of the child seat are provided.

Warranty

LIMITED ONE-YEAR WARRANTY

This product is warranted against defective materials and workmanship for one year from the date of original purchase. Proof of purchase is required.

To make a claim, contact the authorized distributor or retailer where the product was purchased. Proof of purchase is required.

WARRANTY LIMITATIONS

This warranty does not cover damages arising from negligence, misuse, or use not in accordance with the product instructions.

The use of non-CARROT-IIIs covers, inserts, toys, accessories, or tightening devices is not approved. Such use may cause the child seat to fail Safety Standard, ECE regulation No.16, or not perform as intended in a crash, automatically voiding this warranty.

LIMITATION OF DAMAGES

The warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties, oral or written, express or implied. The manufacturer, distributors, or retailers are not liable for any damages, including incidental or consequential damages, arising from the use or inability to use this product.

Warranty Registration

Product Model Number: CARROT 3

Your Name: _________________________

Your Street Address: _________________________

City: ___________ State: ___________ Zip Code: ___________ Country: ___________

Telephone Number: _________________________

E-mail Address: _________________________

Date of Purchase: _________________________

Distributor: _________________________

General Agency: _________________________