For many power wheelchair users, having an attendant or caregiver control option can make everyday mobility more flexible.
There are situations where the wheelchair user may not be able to operate the primary drive controls independently, or occasions when a caregiver simply needs the ability to guide the chair. In these moments, an attendant control can provide a practical way for another person to operate the wheelchair while the user remains comfortably seated.
The Permobil R-Net Attendant Control with Mounting Brackets is designed for compatible Permobil F3, F5, M3, and M5 power wheelchairs. Using the R-Net system, the attendant module provides access to driving, seating, speed, and other wheelchair functions that are available within the system.
The result is a flexible secondary control solution designed around the needs of both wheelchair users and the people assisting them.
What Is the Permobil R-Net Attendant Control?
The Permobil R-Net Attendant Control is a secondary wheelchair control system that allows a caregiver or companion to operate a compatible power wheelchair.
The control can be connected to the wheelchair’s system communication bus and provides access to functions available through the R-Net system.
This can include:
- Driving the power wheelchair
- Controlling available seating functions
- Adjusting attendant drive speed
- Accessing other available system modes
- Transferring control between the user and attendant
This makes the attendant control more than simply a second joystick. It is designed to provide a convenient interface for caregivers who need additional control over the wheelchair.
Permobil Attendant Control for Caregivers
Caregivers often need to adapt to the situation around them.
There may be times when the wheelchair user is able to operate the chair independently and other times when assistance is needed. Having a dedicated attendant control allows the caregiver or companion to take control when necessary.
The Permobil attendant control is designed to let the caregiver control the wheelchair while the user remains seated.
This can be particularly useful when navigating certain environments, assisting with positioning, or helping a user who is unable to operate the primary drive control.
Instead of requiring the caregiver to move behind or beside the chair and manually guide it, the attendant can use the secondary control to operate the power wheelchair.
R-Net Attendant Module
At the heart of this system is the R-Net Attendant Module.
The module can be connected at any point within the R-Net system communication bus. Once integrated into the system, it can provide control over driving, seating, and other functions supported by the wheelchair.
This approach allows the attendant control to work as part of the wheelchair’s broader electronic control system rather than functioning as a completely separate device.
For users and caregivers, this means the secondary control can provide access to multiple wheelchair functions through one integrated interface.
Drive Control for a Power Wheelchair
One of the most important functions of an attendant control is the ability to operate the wheelchair’s drive system.
The Permobil R-Net Attendant Control allows a caregiver or companion to take control of the wheelchair’s movement when required.
This can be especially useful when the user is unable to operate the primary joystick or when an attendant needs to guide the chair through an environment.
The attendant can use the control to manage the wheelchair’s movement while the user remains seated.
This creates an additional layer of flexibility for everyday mobility.
Control Wheelchair Seating Functions
The R-Net Attendant Module isn’t limited to driving.
It can also provide access to available seating functions within the wheelchair’s system.
Depending on the wheelchair’s configuration and programmed functions, the attendant may be able to control seating features through the R-Net system.
This can be useful when a caregiver is assisting the user and needs to make a seating adjustment without requiring the user to operate the primary control.
Because available functions can vary depending on the wheelchair configuration, the exact capabilities should be confirmed for the specific chair.
Simple Transfer of Control Between User and Attendant
One of the most useful aspects of the R-Net Attendant Control is its control-transfer functionality.
The system uses a simple push-button to transfer control between the wheelchair user and the attendant.
This allows the person operating the chair to change without requiring a complicated process.
When the attendant needs to take over, control can be transferred to the secondary control. When the user is ready to resume control, the system can be configured to allow the appropriate transfer back.
This creates a smoother experience for situations where both the user and caregiver need access to wheelchair operation.
Flexible Control Options
Traditional attendant systems are often configured so that the user cannot regain control while the attendant has control.
The R-Net system provides greater flexibility.
It can be programmed to allow the user to regain control from the attendant when this exception is required.
This means the control system can be configured according to the needs of the individual and their care environment.
That flexibility can be valuable for users who alternate between independent wheelchair operation and assisted mobility throughout the day.
Adjustable Attendant Drive Speed
The Permobil R-Net Attendant Control includes additional keys that can be used for setting the attendant’s drive speed.
Having speed control available directly from the attendant interface provides another way to tailor wheelchair operation to the environment.
For example, an attendant may prefer a slower speed when maneuvering through a crowded indoor space and a different setting in a more open environment.
The ability to access drive speed from the attendant control makes these adjustments more convenient.
Actual speed settings and available functions depend on the wheelchair’s programming and configuration.
Access to Other R-Net System Modes
The R-Net Attendant Control can also provide access to other system modes available within the wheelchair.
This helps make the attendant module a more comprehensive control solution rather than a simple drive-only accessory.
The exact modes available depend on the wheelchair’s individual configuration and programming.
For caregivers, having access to relevant wheelchair functions from the attendant control can reduce the need to switch between different controls or rely on the user for adjustments.
Permobil F3, F5, M3 and M5 Compatibility
This attendant control configuration is designed for compatible Permobil F3, F5, M3, and M5 power wheelchairs.
Compatibility is an important consideration when selecting a secondary wheelchair control.
Although the attendant control is intended for these Permobil models, individual wheelchair configurations and electronic setups can vary.
Before purchasing or installing the system, verify compatibility with the exact wheelchair model, R-Net configuration, and existing control system.
This helps ensure that the attendant control can provide the intended functions on the specific power wheelchair.
Attendant Control With Mounting Brackets
This product includes mounting brackets, providing the hardware needed to mount the attendant control in an appropriate location.
Proper positioning of the secondary control is important because the attendant needs convenient access while maneuvering the wheelchair.
The mounting configuration should be selected and installed according to the wheelchair’s specifications and the user’s or caregiver’s needs.
A well-positioned attendant control can make the system easier and more comfortable for a caregiver to use during everyday mobility.
Secondary Joystick for Power Wheelchairs
An attendant control is sometimes described as a secondary joystick because it provides another person with access to the wheelchair’s driving functions.
For users who cannot independently operate the primary drive control, this type of accessory can be especially valuable.
It also provides flexibility for caregivers who need to take over control temporarily.
Rather than replacing the user’s primary control, the attendant system adds another control point to the wheelchair.
This creates a more adaptable mobility system where control can be shared between the user and attendant.
When Is an Attendant Control Useful?
There are many everyday situations where an attendant control can be helpful.
For example, a caregiver may need to guide a wheelchair user through a busy environment. A user may be tired or unable to operate the joystick at a particular time. An attendant may also need to make seating adjustments while assisting the user.
In each of these situations, having access to a secondary control can make wheelchair operation more convenient.
The Permobil R-Net Attendant Control provides this additional flexibility while allowing the user to remain seated in the power wheelchair.
you may also like some of our products:
Supporting Independent and Assisted Mobility
One of the strengths of the R-Net system is that it can accommodate both user and attendant control.
The wheelchair user can maintain control when they are operating the chair independently, while the attendant can take over when assistance is required.
The ability to transfer control helps create a more adaptable experience.
For some users, this can mean greater independence because they can operate the chair themselves when appropriate while still having a caregiver available when needed.
The system therefore supports both independent mobility and assisted mobility within the same wheelchair configuration. visit the official Permobil makers site
Designed for Everyday Flexibility
Wheelchair needs can change from one moment to the next.
A user may independently navigate through one part of their day and require assistance in another. A caregiver may need to take control temporarily before handing the chair back to the user.
The Permobil R-Net Attendant Control is designed to accommodate these changing situations.
With drive control, seating functions, speed adjustment, system modes, and control-transfer capabilities, it provides a flexible secondary interface for compatible Permobil power wheelchairs.
Key Benefits of the Permobil R-Net Attendant Control
Caregiver Control
Allows an attendant or companion to operate the wheelchair while the user remains seated.
Drive Function
Provides access to wheelchair driving through the secondary control.
Seating Control
Can provide access to available seating functions within the R-Net system.
Speed Adjustment
Additional keys allow the attendant to adjust drive speed according to the programmed system settings.
Control Transfer
A simple push-button allows control to be transferred between the user and attendant.
Flexible Programming
The R-Net system can be programmed to allow the user to regain control from the attendant when required.
Mounting Hardware Included
The product configuration includes mounting brackets for installation on compatible wheelchair setups.
A Practical Solution for Caregiver-Controlled Mobility
The Permobil R-Net Attendant Control is designed to make assisted power wheelchair operation more convenient and flexible.
Whether a caregiver needs to take over driving, help navigate an environment, or access available seating functions, the attendant control provides a dedicated interface for doing so.
Its integration with the R-Net communication system means it can work with the wheelchair’s available functions, while the simple control-transfer button makes switching between user and attendant straightforward.
For compatible Permobil F3, F5, M3, and M5 power wheelchairs, it offers a practical way to add secondary control without taking away the user’s ability to operate the chair when appropriate.
Final Thoughts
The Permobil F3, F5, M3 and M5 R-Net Attendant Control with Mounting Brackets is a useful accessory for users who need or prefer the option of caregiver-assisted wheelchair control.
By providing access to driving, seating, speed settings, and other available R-Net functions, the attendant module gives caregivers greater flexibility while keeping the user comfortably seated.
The simple push-button control transfer makes it easy to switch between user and attendant operation, while programmable settings provide additional flexibility for different mobility needs.
For individuals who cannot always operate their primary drive controls, as well as caregivers who need an additional way to guide the wheelchair, the Permobil R-Net Attendant Control offers a convenient and adaptable solution for compatible power wheelchair systems.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.