The conversion of the steering wheel in cars for the disabled goes far beyond a technical adaptation. It symbolizes a significant step towards inclusion and equality in road traffic. People with physical disabilities should experience the freedom and independence that driving offers.
Everything you need to know about the features and benefits of the Car conversion (steering wheel systems): Steering wheel conversion for handicapped accessible cars need to know.
Car conversions for accessible vehicles play a crucial role in promoting mobility for people with reduced mobility. One of the key aspects of this conversion is adapting the steering system to provide an accessible driving experience.
A necessary step towards inclusion
Converting the steering system in cars for the disabled is far more than just a technical adaptation. It symbolizes a significant step towards inclusion and equality in road traffic. People with physical disabilities should experience the freedom and independence that driving offers.
The variety of steering systems
There are different types of steering systems that can be adapted to the driver's individual needs. From hand throttle and brake pedals to steering aids and steering wheel buttons, modern technologies offer numerous options for adapting a car to specific requirements.
Technological advances for more self-determination
With advances in vehicle technology, the options for car conversions have also expanded. Electronic steering aids, automated steering systems and other innovations make it possible to adapt the steering system to suit the driver's individual abilities and preferences.
Advice and expertise are crucial
A successful steering conversion requires thorough advice and expertise. Professionals in the field of car conversions can assess individual needs and recommend the most suitable adaptations. This personalized approach ensures not only safety, but also maximum comfort for the driver.
Concluding remarks: More than just technology
Converting the steering system in cars for the disabled is far more than just a technical adaptation. It is a step towards a more inclusive society that enables mobility for all. Innovative technologies and individual adaptations make steering a car not only easier, but above all a source of self-determination and freedom for people with mobility impairments. Below is a list of some of the different steering systems that are being used as part of this important transformation process:
Steering wheel extensions: Steering wheel extensions adjust the length of the steering wheel to the driver's individual needs. This can help people with certain physical limitations to grip the steering wheel more easily.
Lever installation
Blinker and wiper levers are fitted with the routing on the side best suited to your needs. This allows you to operate the levers with the most suitable hand. The levers are simply mechanically relocated to the other side. The functionality of the original lever is retained.
Rotary knob
Our steering wheel rotary knobs are of excellent quality, the design is modern and of course matches the Veigel hand controls visually.
The steering wheel knobs are removable and available in 50 mm Ø. Two types of clamps are available as standard for mounting on the steering wheel.
MyCommand multifunction rotary knob
Everything perfectly under control: With the MyCommand multifunction control knob, you can control up to 14 secondary functions intuitively and without any delay in response - modern design and optimum ergonomics included. The clear and uncluttered design enables intuitive and safe operation. The My Command adapts perfectly to the steering wheel and the interior of the vehicle. Safe driving is ensured by using the MyCommand, the product meets the strict standards of the automotive industry. The control panel can be removed in one easy step and gives an early acoustic signal when the battery charge is running low. Everything perfectly under control: With the MyCommand multifunctional rotary knob, you can control up to 14 secondary functions intuitively and without reaction delay - modern design and optimum ergonomics included. The clear and uncluttered design enables intuitive and safe operation. The My Command adapts perfectly to the steering wheel and the interior of the vehicle. Safe driving is ensured by using the MyCommand, the product meets the strict standards of the automotive industry. The control panel can be removed in one easy step and gives an early acoustic signal when the battery charge is running low.
MFD TOUCH multifunction rotary knob
Functionality and elegance have been combined in the MFD TOUCH since 2014. A consistent further development for standard functions such as indicators, windscreen wipers, lights and horn with larger buttons and improved ergonomics in an automotive design. As with all products in the MFD family, the four large buttons understand the combination of long and short presses. A new feature is the securely coded communication with the on-board electronics via radio standard. The "Petri+Lehr MFD TOUCH AIS" (Automotive Installation System) is the first and currently only Canbus retrofit system approved by car manufacturers and is invisibly integrated into the vehicle's on-board electronics. Technology clearly meets design.
The elegant new MFD TOUCH, developed and manufactured by Petri+Lehr, can also be found in the delivery program for driving aids at Mercedes-Benz ex works.
Technical data MFD TOUCH:
Multifunction rotary knob MFD 1
Steering wheel rotary knob
The Petri+Lehr steering wheel rotary knob (LDK) is removable and therefore meets the requirements of the TÜV. Simple and easy to grip, the LDK blends harmoniously into the interior of your vehicle. The holder on the steering wheel is softly foamed and has a pleasant surface texture. A holder below the steering wheel is available for some Mercedes-Benz models. Wherever it is fitted, the LDK simply sits comfortably in your hand.
Tetragabel
The Petri+Lehr tetra fork ensures safe steering in any case without having to reach for it. Removable at any time, the fork and the steering wheel knob are mounted on the steering wheel using a quick-release axle and clamp holder. Particularly suitable if the finger function is lost (e.g. quadriplegia). Residual strength in the wrist must be available.
Two-pronged
Thanks to adjustable pins and individual adjustment to the hand, this two-pronged handlebar ensures even safer steering without the need to grip. Also mounted on the steering wheel using a quick-release axle and clamp holder, the two-pronged grip can be removed at any time. Particularly suitable if the finger function is lost (e.g. quadriplegia). There must be residual strength in the wrist.
Trident
All three pins are adjustable using slotted hole holders and can be individually adjusted to secure the hand and wrist. The trident is mounted on the steering wheel with the clamp holder using a quick-release axle and can be removed at any time. Can be ridden without residual forces in the wrist.
Tetra button
Leather-covered and ergonomically perfect, the Tetra knob feels soft and comfortable in the hand. It offers more hand contact surface than a conventional rotary knob and optimally supports the available residual forces.
Driving aid for drivers who, due to a disability, can only use their left hand (left arm) to operate the wiper lever. The deflection lever can be used to operate both the windshield wipers and (usually) the wipe/wash function.
EB-5000
This remote control allows you to access the vehicle's main electrical functions (indicators, lights, horn, windshield wipers, etc.) without having to let go of the steering wheel. The remote control is equipped with an automatic blinker reset function as standard. Optionally, other or additional functions can be switched to the remote control (e.g. fog lights or power windows). It is also possible to install the remote control at a different location (e.g. on the hand control).
Using the 'SmartSteer' multifunction button, you can access all of the vehicle's important electrical functions (indicators, lights, horn, windshield wipers, etc.) without having to let go of the steering wheel, similar to the EB-5000 remote control. In this case, however, the controls are operated with the thumb and not the index finger.
EB-4200P
The functions of the 'SmartSteer Premium' correspond exactly to those of the 'SmartSteer' variant, the difference is in the shape of the transmitter.
EB-4500
This remote control allows you to access the vehicle's most important electrical functions (indicators, lights, horn, windshield wipers, etc.) without having to let go of the steering wheel or the auxiliary device. The remote control is equipped with a dynamic blinker reset as standard.
The reversing lever for direction indicator can be used to operate both the direction indicator and the high beam and headlight flasher functions, as well as an additional electrical function. The windshield wiper reversing lever can be used to operate the wiper functions and an additional function.
If starting the vehicle (inserting and turning the ignition key) is no longer possible, this product provides a remedy. First, a transponder card / transponder chip is used to deactivate the immobilizer, then the ignition is switched on and finally the engine is started. The switches are always arranged in consultation with the customer.
The (additional) starter button is a cheaper alternative to removing the ignition lock. It can be used whenever it is still possible to insert the key and switch on the ignition, and only starting the engine proves to be too difficult. Here too, you determine the position of the switch.
This conversion makes it easier to operate the automatic selector lever. The selector lever extension is usually required by people who have a short right arm ('Contergan'), a right hand prosthesis or a restriction of the right arm.
A steering column extension is often required by people who steer their vehicle from a wheelchair and do not have sufficient knee room. However, it can also be a great relief for people with short arms or simply enable an optimum sitting/steering position.
With this electronic steering system, we can reduce the necessary operating forces to almost zero as required. When setting the operating forces for the integrated brake and accelerator controls, as well as when designing the input modules for other functions, we focus precisely on your requirements and wishes. To increase your safety, the technology is enclosed in attractive plastic covers. These significantly reduce the risk of injury, especially in the event of a crash.
This system (also known as the 'Franz system') enables people without arms to drive a vehicle safely. Steering is carried out using a 'bicycle crank' with an appropriately adapted foot holder. All relevant electrical functions (direction indicators, lights, windshield wipers, horn, etc.) are converted so that they can be operated with the feet or knees if required.
Advantages over previous solutions
This system (also known as the 'Kempf system') was also designed for people without arms. The steering is operated with the right foot using a turntable. The brake and accelerator are operated with the left foot. Of course, 'mirror-inverted' operation is also possible. All relevant electrical functions (direction indicators, lights, windshield wipers, horn, etc.) and the operation of the door, seat belt, etc. are also adapted accordingly.
Finger accelerator Guidosimplex trigger
The new Hsens technology developed for the 906ELG device enables gradual and precise acceleration by activating a trigger. The ergonomics of the handle are designed to keep both hands on the steering wheel for perfect control in all driving situations. Its small size and the wireless technology used make it easy to operate the brake lever, gearshift and all controls on the steering wheel and dashboard of the vehicle. The wearing comfort is perfect and can be optimally adapted to the user's hand via a comfortably adjustable strap.
Space Drive - electronic digital controls
Space Drive Mini - electronic digital controls
7-function infrared control
The infrared control mounted on the steering wheel ensures quick operation of the headlights, indicators, windshield wipers, horn, etc. using a keypad. By rotating the keypad, the operation of the selection buttons can be individually adapted to the driver's needs. To ensure that the symbols remain visible at night, they can be illuminated with a switch. All original functions are retained. The device is also equipped with a grip ball for turning the steering wheel and can be mounted on the right or left side.
Lodgesons Steering Ball + Keypad
The infrared control mounted on the steering wheel ensures convenient operation of the headlights, indicators, windshield wipers, horn, etc. By rotating the keypad, the operation of the selection buttons can be individually adapted to the driver's needs. The symbols can be illuminated with a switch so that they are also visible at night.
The PARAVAN Voice Control
The PARAVAN MultiMote
There are various steering wheel conversions, including hand throttle and brake pedal systems, steering wheel buttons, electronic steering aids, automated steering systems, steering with joystick and steering wheel extensions.
The costs vary greatly and depend on the type of fitting, the parts required and other individual factors. A precise cost estimate should be carried out by a specialist.
These systems allow drivers to accelerate and brake without using their feet. A hand lever replaces the accelerator pedal and braking takes place via a similar hand control.
Steering wheel buttons make it easier to steer with one hand, allowing greater independence for people with limited hand or arm function.
Electronic steering aids make steering easier by providing technological support. These systems can be customized to make it easier to steer the vehicle.
Automated steering systems take over some or all of the steering tasks to provide a simpler driving experience for people with reduced physical mobility.
The steering with joystick enables precise steering movements and is particularly useful for people with limited hand or arm function.
Steering wheel extensions adapt the length of the steering wheel to individual needs and help people with certain physical limitations to grip the steering wheel more easily.
Multifunction steering wheels integrate various controls, such as switches for indicators or windshield wipers, into the steering wheel to facilitate access to vehicle functions.
A three-pronged steering wheel has three spokes and offers an easier grip. This can be particularly advantageous for people with limited hand strength.
In most cases, wheelchair-accessible steering systems can be installed in various vehicle types, depending on individual requirements and the space available.
The installation of steering wheel conversions can affect the vehicle warranty. It is advisable to clarify this with the car manufacturer or dealer.
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