Any non-standard control that is ordered or set up to be another option for driving a power chair is considered an alternative drive control.
Drive controls in general are categorised into two different functionalities:
Non-Proportional (Switch) are drive controls that are activated by switches or sensors and drive without a progressive increment from an OFF to an ON state. Some non-proportional drive controls, like the Stealth i-Drive, behave as a semi-proportional control, allowing for a better learning curve and more confidence during the users driving experience. Semi-Proportional drives allow the change of sensor state, or driving function activation, in a more progressive and smooth increment.
Proportional drive controls are more commonly used in a joystick where the driving functions (Left, Right, Forward, and Reverse) are dependent upon the amount of pressure, or force, applied to the control. Individuals with very limited motor skills are able to maintain a level of independence. Joysticks are classified by their pounds/grams of force or newton’s units of pressure; the smaller the amount of pressure required the less force the individual has to exert to operate the mobility base or any other function that has been programmed in the power chair interface.
Q-Logic Enhanced Display
An optional screen for use with specialty drive controls, providing clear system data at a glance
iAccess
An innovative and versatile control module for Quantum powerchairs, designed to expand the functionality of the Q-Logic 3 control system
Scoot Control
A wheelchair control used by the attendant or caregiver to control the electric wheelchair
Semi-Proportional
I‑Drive® Alternative Drive Control System
i‑Drive® Head Arrays
i‑Drive® Trays
i-Drive Trays can provide Capacitive or Fibre Optic Proximity Sensors with Gatlin Mounting only.
i‑Drive® Sip & Puff
The Sip & Puff option for i-Drive incorporates a wand that allows the use of breath for input control
i‑Drive® Precision Proportional Joysticks
Specially designed to work with the i-Drive system and can be easily configured with APS (Advanced Programming Software)
Proportional
Proportional Drive Control System
mo‑vis™ Micro Joystick
Small, ergonomic design was developed for easy use for those with poor or weak muscular power or restricted movement
mo‑vis™ Multi Joystick
Designed for those users with limited muscular power such as ALS or MS. It requires slightly more force than the Micro Joystick but is still ultra sensitive
Stealth Precision Mini Proportional Joystick
One of the most precise, robust, and multi-axis proportional controllers available for use on a power wheelchair
Stealth Mushroom
A unique mechanical and tactile configuration which appears to amplify minimal force and ROM, and provides a valid option for good hand control
mo‑vis™ All Round Joystick
The All-Round Joystick is a compact version of the standard electronic wheelchair joystick. Comes with two activation force versions
mo‑vis™ Heavy Duty Joystick
The All-Round Heavy Duty Joystick is a large, extremely durable joystick. Can serve as a hand or foot-operated joystick. Developed for users with excessive force
Frequently Asked Questions
What are alternative drive controls for power wheelchairs?
Alternative drive controls are specialist input systems that allow individuals to operate a power wheelchair without relying on a conventional joystick. They are designed for people with limited hand function, reduced muscle strength or restricted movement. Options include head arrays, Sip & Puff systems, proximity sensors and specialist joysticks. LCS Ltd supplies a range of alternative drive controls in Ireland, helping wheelchair users and healthcare professionals identify suitable solutions for individual mobility requirements.
Can someone with limited or no hand movement operate a power wheelchair?
Yes. Alternative drive controls can enable individuals with limited or no functional hand movement to operate a power wheelchair independently, depending on their abilities and clinical requirements. Systems such as Stealth i-Drive head arrays allow users to control wheelchair movement through head positioning, while Sip & Puff technology uses controlled breathing as an input method. A specialist assessment can help determine the most appropriate control system based on the user’s available movement, strength and coordination.
What is the difference between proportional and non-proportional wheelchair drive controls?
Proportional drive controls respond progressively to the amount of force or movement applied, allowing users to control wheelchair direction and speed through a joystick. Non-proportional controls use switches or sensors to activate specific driving commands, typically without progressive input. Semi-proportional systems, such as Stealth i-Drive, provide more progressive activation than conventional switch controls, helping users achieve smoother operation and greater confidence when driving.
How does a Sip & Puff wheelchair control system work?
A Sip & Puff system allows users to operate a power wheelchair using controlled inhalation (sip) and exhalation (puff) through a specially designed mouthpiece or wand. Different breath inputs can be programmed to activate driving functions, providing an alternative to conventional hand-operated controls. The Stealth i-Drive Sip & Puff system, available through LCS, is designed for individuals who have sufficient breath control but limited functional movement for operating a standard joystick.
What specialist joystick options are available for people with limited muscle strength?
LCS offers several specialist proportional joystick options, including the mo-vis Micro Joystick, Multi Joystick, All-Round Joystick and Stealth Precision Mini Proportional Joystick. These controls accommodate different levels of strength, movement and coordination. For example, the Micro Joystick is designed for users with very limited muscular power, while the Multi Joystick requires slightly more activation force. Heavy-duty joystick options are also available for users who apply greater force during operation.
How do I choose the right alternative drive control for a power wheelchair in Ireland?
Choosing an alternative drive control depends on the user’s available movement, muscle strength, coordination, positioning, cognitive abilities and functional goals. An assessment by an occupational therapist or specialist wheelchair clinician can help identify whether a head array, Sip & Puff system, proximity sensor or specialist joystick is most appropriate. LCS Ltd works with healthcare professionals and wheelchair users in Ireland to explore suitable control options and compatible power wheelchair configurations. To make an enquiry, contact LCS on 071 916 3905, email info@lcs.ltd or visit the LCS Contact page.