What is the Kidevo Prime.t wheelchair?
The Kidevo Prime.t is described as "at last – a tilting wheelchair that is also designed for active, self-propelling use." It combines the therapeutic benefits of tilt-in-space positioning with the independence of active wheelchair use, making it unique in the paediatric wheelchair market. Designed for children from age 2 through to adulthood, it's custom-made and grows extensively with your child.
How is the Prime.t different from the regular Prime?
The key difference is the integrated tilt-in-space system. The Prime.t features a practical tilting system that allows 10 degrees forward and 50 degrees backward tilt, while the standard Prime has no tilt function. The Prime.t maintains all the modular benefits of the Prime while adding advanced therapeutic positioning capabilities.
What makes the Prime.t tilt system special?
The Prime.t features a revolutionary gas-spring-free tilt mechanism with several unique advantages:
- No gas pressure springs - Reduces weight and maintenance
- Constant centre of gravity - Doesn't change during tilting, providing necessary stability
- Extensive range - 10° forward to 50° backward (60° total range)
- Foot-operated - Simple design, extremely easy to operate by foot
- Active use compatible - Self-propelling possible even when tilted
- Space-saving - Functional design without excessive bulk
Who should choose the Kidevo Prime.t?
The Prime.t is ideal for children and youth who need:
- Active self-propelling capability
- Therapeutic tilt positioning for pressure relief or postural management
- Larger size range (26-50cm seat width)
- Long-term wheelchair from age 2 through adulthood
- Combination of independence and positioning support
- Maximum tilt range for complex positioning needs
What are the size specifications?
The Kidevo Prime.t accommodates:
- Maximum user weight: 75 kg
- Seat width range: 26-50 cm (24cm growth range)
- Seat depth range: 20-50 cm (30cm growth range)
- Tilt range: -10° to +50° (10° forward, 50° backward)
- Drive wheel sizes: 22", 24", 26"
Why is constant centre of gravity important?
When the centre of gravity remains unchanged during tilting, it provides several critical benefits:
- Stability - Wheelchair doesn't become tip-prone when tilted
- Driving behaviour - Self-propelling remains efficient at any tilt angle
- Safety - Caregiver can maneuver safely regardless of tilt position
- Confidence - Child feels secure and stable throughout position changes
This is a significant advantage over traditional tilt wheelchairs that use gas springs, which often shift the centre of gravity and affect stability.
How easy is the tilt mechanism to operate?
The tilt release features a simple design that is extremely easy to operate by foot. Caregivers can adjust the tilt position quickly and intuitively without bending down or using complex mechanisms. This foot-operated system allows for one-handed operation while maintaining control of the wheelchair.
Can my child self-propel the Prime.t while it's tilted?
Yes! This is one of the Prime.t's breakthrough features. Because the centre of gravity remains constant and the design is optimized for active use, children can continue to self-propel efficiently even when the seat is tilted. This maintains independence while benefiting from therapeutic positioning.
What are the therapeutic benefits of the tilt function?
The extensive tilt mechanism provides multiple therapeutic benefits:
- Pressure relief - Shifting weight reduces risk of pressure injuries
- Postural support - Different angles accommodate various positioning needs
- Comfort - Ability to change position throughout the day
- Fatigue management - Reclining helps children rest while seated
- Medical needs - Assists with breathing, digestion, and circulation
- Social interaction - Can be upright for engagement or reclined for rest
Is the Prime.t modular like the standard Prime?
Yes! The Prime.t maintains the modular design philosophy, allowing it to be quickly dismantled for transport. Like the standard Prime, it's tailor-made to your child and designed to grow with them through extensive adjustability.
What back support options are available?
The Kidevo Prime.t features a functional back system:
- Removable back - Can be taken off when needed
- Angle-adjustable - Back angle can be customized independently of tilt
- Further stabilisation - Additional support options available
- Custom-made options - Huge variety of upholstered back units
The back adjusts independently from the tilt function, allowing fine-tuned positioning.
How does the Prime.t compare to the Mini.t?
Both models offer active tilt-in-space functionality, but differ in size and capacity:
Mini.t:
- Age: 12+ months
- Seat width: 16-32cm
- Max weight: 50kg
- Tilt: -5° to +40°
- Wheels: 20", 22", 24"
Prime.t:
- Age: 2+ years to adult
- Seat width: 26-50cm
- Max weight: 75kg
- Tilt: -10° to +50°
- Wheels: 22", 24", 26"
The Prime.t offers larger dimensions, greater weight capacity, and more extensive tilt range for older/larger children.
What wheel and tire options are available?
The Prime.t offers three rear wheel sizes (22", 24", 26") that can be combined with:
- Various tire types (pneumatic, solid, etc.)
- Multiple handrim styles and sizes
- Different tread patterns
- Options optimized for self-propelling
What customization options are included?
The Prime.t offers extensive personalization:
- Range of eye-catching frame colours
- Custom-made upholstered seat and back systems
- Colourful spoke protectors
- Various tire and handrim combinations
- Therapy trays
- Positioning belts
- Grip ring knobs
- Multiple brake options including drum brakes
How long will the Prime.t last as my child grows?
With 24cm width growth (26-50cm), 30cm depth growth (20-50cm), and height adjustments, the Prime.t can accommodate many years of development. The 75kg weight limit allows use from early childhood (age 2-3) through teenage years and potentially into young adulthood, depending on individual growth patterns.
Is the Prime.t suitable for school use?
Absolutely! The Prime.t is ideal for school environments:
- Active self-propelling for independence
- Tilt function for positioning during long class periods
- Durable construction for daily use
- Therapy tray option for desk work
- Comfortable for all-day seating
- Promotes engagement through optimal positioning
Can the Mud Cruiser be attached?
Yes! The Prime.t is compatible with the Mud Cruiser outdoor wheel accessory. This mounts to the frame in seconds without tools, allowing children to tackle outdoor terrain while benefiting from the tilt positioning.
What positioning accessories are available?
The Prime.t includes or offers:
- Robust flat footplate - Standard one-piece design
- Alternative footplate options - High variety of positioning alternatives
- Adjustable head supports - Angle, height, and depth adjustable
- Transfer handles - For easy transitions
- Steering aids - Enable one-handed control
How does the Prime.t promote independence?
Despite the advanced tilt functionality, the Prime.t maintains focus on active mobility:
- Adjustable centre of gravity for efficient self-propelling
- Lightweight compared to traditional tilt wheelchairs
- Child can operate at any tilt angle
- Transfer handles support learning independence
- Steering aids for skill development
What's the maintenance like for the tilt mechanism?
The gas-spring-free design significantly reduces maintenance needs:
- No gas springs to fail or require replacement
- Fewer moving parts
- More reliable long-term performance
- Less time-consuming repairs
- Lower ongoing costs
Is the Prime.t crash tested?
While specific crash test certification should be confirmed with Mobility Joy Central Coast, Ottobock wheelchairs typically meet relevant international safety standards for paediatric mobility equipment.
