Dual Control Joystick – Instructions
The Dual Control Joystick enables an attendant to drive the powered wheelchair, controlling both speed and direction.
Some notes about the joystick
The direction the wheelchair travels in varies according to the direction of joystick deflection. When driving on a flat surface, the speed of the wheelchair varies according to the amount of joystick deflection.
Starting for the first time
Adjust the dual control speed to ‘slow’, so the dial is at a quarter of the maximum setting.
Check that the dual control toggle switch is set to ‘attendant’.
Switch the wheelchair on.
Grip both push handles and gently place your thumb within the dual joystick cup-shaped knob.
Then, looking forwards, gently push the dual control joystick very slightly forward. You will hear a loud click as the brakes disengage. Push the joystick slightly further and the powered wheelchair will begin to drive forward.
Continue to grip both push handles and walk forward, deflecting the joystick to control the speed of the wheelchair to match your walking pace.
Move your thumb slowly to change direction and speed, avoiding rapid joystick movements as this will result in rapid changes in speed and direction. At all times continue to grip the push handles.
Slowing and stopping
The wheelchair will slow as the joystick deflection is reduced and will stop when the joystick is allowed to return to its middle position. During stopping, continue to grip both push handles until the wheelchair has stopped and you hear the click as the brakes re-engage.
Negotiating slopes and kerbs
Approach slopes directly, not at an angle.
Cross roads at a pedestrian crossing or, if there is no pedestrian crossing, cross where there are dropped kerbs.
If the powered wheelchair is fitted with a kerb climber then the wheelchair is capable of climbing kerbs. To climb kerbs, grip both push handles, face the kerb directly, not at an angle and drive forward at a reasonable speed. The kerb climber will come into contact with the kerb and the front wheels should lift up of the road. Keep the joystick deflected forward, while gripping both push handles, and the rear wheels will continue to drive forward causing the powered wheelchair to drive up onto the pavement.
The powered wheelchair should be reversed very slowly, when driving from the pavement and dropping down a kerb onto the road surface. Firstly, manoeuvre the wheelchair so it points away from the kerb directly and not at an angle. Then grip both push handles and gently deflect the joystick into reverse. The powered wheelchair will drive backwards slowly towards the kerb with both rear wheels dropping down onto the road surface simultaneously. Continue to grip both push handles, while holding the joystick in reverse and the wheelchair will continue to drive backwards onto the road surface.