Rascal 600B/700B Owner’s Manual
EMC Part: 19278100 Rev. 3
◦
06/29/2009
6
Safety Considerations – Electromagnetic Interference:
This vehicle has an immunity level of 20 V/m which should protect it from
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from Radio Wave Sources. The rapid
development of electronics, especially in the area of communications, has
saturated our environment with electromagnetic (radio) waves that are
emitted by television, radio and communication signals. These EM waves
are invisible and their strength increases as one approaches the source. All
electrical conductors act as antennas to the EM signals and, to varying
degrees, all power wheelchairs and scooters are susceptible to
electromagnetic interference (EMI). This interference could result in
abnormal, unintentional movement and/or erratic control of the vehicle.
This following statement shall be incorporated to the user's manual for all
electric vehicles:
Powered wheelchairs and electric scooters may be susceptible to
electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is interfering electromagnetic
energy emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur
radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios and cellular phones. The
interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the vehicle to release its
brakes, move by itself or move in unintended directions. It can also
permanently damage the vehicle’s control system. The intensity of the EM
energy can be measured in volts per meter (V/m). Each vehicle can resist
EMI up to a certain intensity level. This is called the "immunity level." The
higher the immunity level, the greater the protection. At this time, current
technology is capable of providing at least 20 V/m of immunity level which
would provide useful protection against common sources of radiated EMI.
Following the warnings listed below should reduce the chance of
unintended brake release or vehicle movement that could result in serious
injury:
1.
Do not turn on hand-held personal communication devices such as
citizens band (CB) radios and cellular phones while the powered
wheelchair is turned on.
2.
Be aware of nearby transmitters such as radio or TV stations and try
to avoid coming close to them.
3.
If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the vehicle off
as soon as it is safe.
4.
Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the
vehicle, may make it more susceptible to interference from radio
wave sources. (NOTE: There is no easy way to evaluate their effect
on overall immunity of the vehicle.)
