Up Speed / Down Speed: Sets actuator speed in each direction.
Acceleration / Deceleration: Sets the rate of speed change.
Set point 1: Soft stop angle adjustment for standing function actuators.
3. Axis Setup Submenu (Assignment & Movement)
Controls simultaneous movement for a single action (e.g., anti-shear recline).
Axis Channels: Defines which actuators operate for the axis.
Axis Display: Sets the axis appearance on the UI.
Actuator Mode Entry Axis: Sets the default axis selected in Seating Mode (typically Mode 2).
Note: The R-net system uses Inhibits to apply safety limits to drive speed or actuator movement based on the position of other modules (e.g., limiting drive speed if the seat is elevated).
⚠️ Retrofitting and Module Management
CRITICAL WARNING:
Only a qualified technician from an authorized supplier should modify the seating system. Improper work risks altering the chair’s center of gravity, leading to falls/tip-overs, or electrical damage.
Safety & Hardware Considerations
Wiring Integrity: Must follow precise cable routing, guides, and tie-wraps to prevent pinching.
Actuator Replacement: Requires a position reset for the new actuator.
Special Boot-up Modes: Used for position reset/troubleshooting. NEVER use with a user in the chair as limits are disabled, risking serious injury.
Configuration Errors: Error code 965A may indicate R-net settings in e-bx are incompatible with the chair's actuator setup.
Programming & Documentation Needs
Required Tools:R-net PC Programmer software and the R-net Programmer's Kit (Dongle).
Documentation: Having the chair’s Serial Number and the original factory programming is critical for troubleshooting.
đź“ž Technical Support & Training
Given the complexity and safety risks, formal support channels are recommended for advanced training.
Support Contacts
Amylior Technical Support:
Phone: 1-888-453-0311 ext. 2
Email: techsupport@amylior.com
Documentation: Extensive guides and blueprints are available online.
20 steps for technicians to resolve electronics, chair, and programming issues.
Initial Resets and Diagnostics (Chair Side)
Action:
Turn the power **"OFF" on the joystick**, wait 10 seconds, and then turn it back **"ON"**. This simple cycle checks for potential joystick/screen issues.
Action:
1. **Unplug the chair’s batteries**. 2. Wait **1 minute**. 3. **Plug the batteries back in** and turn on the joystick. This action is typically used if the Power Module needs a comprehensive reset.
Action (Visual Check):
Observe the joystick's battery voltage display. A fully charged battery will show **all 10 lights on** (Voltage between 25.3 and 27.5 Volts). If only one light is on or flashing, the voltage is less than 23.5 Volts.
Action (Multi-meter):
Measure battery voltage at the joystick and the individual terminals of both batteries. A **voltage drop greater than 2 V** while driving normally may necessitate battery replacement or further investigation.
Action:
Inspect all cabling, connectors, and wire ties. Ensure wire ties are not too tight. Check for loose wires, damage, or breaks.
Action (Intermittent Issues):
Move and pull (without disconnecting) on each cable to attempt to **recreate the error**.
Action:
1. Engage and disengage the motors. 2. Cycle the power to the chair. 3. **Switch the left motor with the right motor** to help identify the source of a drive error, such as a free wheel or brake issue.
Feature:
Utilize an **LCD joystick or keypad** when a programmer is unavailable, as it provides **text for diagnostics**. This is superior to using an LED joystick, which is limited to a sequence of blinking lights.
Action:
1. Squeeze the tabs together to open the battery access door. 2. Drop the panel down and pull out the batteries. 3. **Press the breaker button to reset the breaker**. If the problem is not solved, the battery harness may need replacement.
Action:
If a specific cable is suspected (e.g., producing "BAD CABLE" errors), **disconnect the faulty cable and replace it with a temporary cable** (such as a spare actuator extension cable, 1000455). This saves time by verifying the cable's status without unnecessary disassembly.
Action:
Access the calibration menu (either via On Board Programming (OBP) or R-net PC Programmer) and select **Joystick Calibration**. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the automatic procedure. This procedure is **mandatory if a new joystick is installed**.
Action:
If the chair has multiple actuators, check if any functions have **disappeared from the selection list**. Resolution (if using e-bx): A missing function indicates a communication problem; attempt to switch the actuator cable to an **unused e-bx port**.
Advanced Diagnostics and Programming (Using Programmer Tools)
Action:
Connect the R-net dongle to the computer’s USB port.
Plug the R-net dongle into the chair (e.g., by removing one R-Net cable connected to the e-bx).
Turn the chair on via the joystick.
Open the **"R-Net Programmer"** application.
Action:
Unplug the cable from the power module and plug it into the Dongle.
Plug the bus cable that comes with the Dongle into the spot where the power module cable was plugged in.
Start the chair's system.
Connect the mobile device to the Dongle's SSID network and enter the PW (password) shown on the Dongle's label.
Open the browser and enter the address **http://powerchair.net**. This allows monitoring of input states (e.g., e-bx and ISM).
Action:
Connect the programmer.
In the programmer software, click the arrow pointing down or select **Controller/Read from Controller** to retrieve the chair’s current settings.
Click **File/Save As** to establish a clean starting point before major investigation.
Action:
Connect the programmer.
In the software, navigate to Tools and select **System Logs**.
Read the log data for the affected module (e.g., e-bx).
Save the log to a file (**File/Save to file**) to leverage this historical data for insights.
Action:
1. Open the previously saved (**known good**) program file on the programmer. 2. Transfer the program by clicking the up arrow or selecting **Controller/Write to Controller**. This rules out issues related specifically to recent programming changes.
Action:
If the last known good file was not saved, use the programming utility function. 1. In the R-net Programmer, click **Controller**. 2. Select **Create Presets**. 3. Confirm to delete and write your own default settings by clicking **Yes**. This restores the programming stored in the power module to "factory programming".
Purpose:
Designed to determine if an actuator is defective or if the controller is the cause of the problem. Temporarily **disables actuator movement limits**.
WARNING:
Never use this mode if the user is in the chair due to disabled movement limits.
Instructions (Activation):
Turn the joystick OFF.
Locate the button under the e-bx, push and **hold it**.
While holding the button, turn the joystick **ON**.
**Release the button immediately** upon the first green LED flash.
Purpose:
Used to execute a **position reset of actuators** by moving them from minimum to maximum positions, especially after actuator replacement. The chair enters drive lock-out.
Instructions (Activation):
Turn the joystick OFF.
Locate the button under the e-bx, push and **hold it**.
While holding the button, turn the joystick **ON**.
Release the button upon the **second green LED flash**.
Instructions (Reset):
Must be performed using a pushbutton keypad (**SWKEYPAD**). Retract all actuators to neutral position before exiting.
Action:
If power supply checks are adequate but electronic errors persist (e.g., communications problems 9800-9821, or persistent power trips), **replacing the main control module** (R-Net power module, e-bx, or ISM) is often the fastest way to isolate a core electronic failure.
Action: Gather the following essential items before contacting technical support:
The chair’s **Serial Number** (to identify factory configuration).
A copy of the chair’s **programming** (to compare current vs. original settings).
A copy of the chair’s **fault log** (leveraging historical data for insights).
Confirm possession of a programmer (dongle/PC programmer/Wi-Fi dongle) or a **multi-meter**.
Alltrack Power Wheelchair Development and R-net Seating Control Report
Alltrack Power Wheelchair Development and R-net Seating Control Report
This report provides an update on the new and upcoming developments in the hardware and electronics of the **Alltrack power wheelchair line**, followed by a focused overview of the **R-net electronic control system's seating parameters** (specifically the Amylior ISM/e-bx functionality) to aid in streamlining wheelchair configuration and parts management.
Part 1: Alltrack Hardware and Electronics Developments
The Alltrack power wheelchair series continues to implement modular and enhanced components, particularly focusing on refined mechanical parts and integrated electronics that enhance flexibility and troubleshooting capabilities.
A. Recent and Upcoming Hardware Developments (Guiding Trials and Parts Stock)
Several key hardware updates have been introduced across the Alltrack line, which should be considered when planning wheelchair trials and managing parts inventory:
New SIGNATURE Footrests/Legrests (Released February 2024)
The first components of the newly redesigned **Amyseat Signature Series power seating system** were released starting February 12, 2024. These updates include redesigned standard (STD) and heavy-duty (HD) swing-away footrests, pediatric footrests, and manual and power Elevating & Articulating Legrests (ALR).
Design Change: Traditional round tubing has been replaced by a **proprietary aluminum extrusion**.
Benefits: This change results in components that are **stronger and more resistant to rotation**, feature a sleeker design, and are **lighter weight (up to 25% less)** than previous designs.
Interchangeability: The manual and power elevating legrests are comprised of the **same hanger used with the HD footrests**, providing parts continuity and harmonized adjustments across the line.
Availability: These new Signature footrests/legrests became available on all Alltrack power wheelchairs starting February 12, 2024.
New LED Lighting Package (Recent/Upcoming)
Effective January 9, 2023, the standard light package transitioned to a **New LED Lighting Package** for the entire Alltrack power wheelchair line. This new lighting package will be fully incorporated into the optional LED Lighting Package in **early January 2024**.
Colored Drive Wheel Caps (Released May 2023)
As of May 2023, color has been added to the Alltrack drive wheel, with a matching cap installed standard at the factory on every power chair.
B. Electronic Control System Architecture
The Alltrack series offers two primary electronics options: the **PG Drives VR2** (non-expandable 90 A) or the **R-net** (expandable 90 A or 120 A). The shift towards robust, expandable electronic systems highlights improved functionality, especially in power seating controls:
e-bx Seating Controller and iQ Actuators
The current proprietary electronics architecture utilizes the **e-bx seating controller** with **iQ Actuators**, introduced starting February 6, 2020.
Key Feature: This system provides **intuitive plug-n-play functionality** and seamlessly integrates with the entire R-net line via a **unique handshake protocol**.
Capability: The e-bx architecture offers **true plug-n-play flexibility**, capable of controlling and programming **up to 6 actuators**.
Memory Seating: The system supports **easily programmable memory seating capabilities**. Up to five individual memory settings/combinations of seat function can be saved.
Troubleshooting: The system incorporates **error detection software** for excellent troubleshooting capabilities.
R-net Expandability and Specialty Controls
The R-net system is highly modular and supports specialty drive controls from various manufacturers, including **Switch-It, Stealth, ASL, and MO-VIS**. The full complement of R-net electronics and specialty controls is available, along with the Smart-Track assistive driving package (requiring the R-net 120 Amp controller in some cases).
Part 2: Focus on Alltrack R-net Seating Parameters (Amylior ISM/e-bx)
To assist with efficiently reconfiguring Alltrack chairs, particularly when retrofitting or removing power seat modules, a focus on the R-net programming structure, specifically the **Amylior ISM (Intelligent Seating Module)** branch, is critical.
The Amylior-specific multiple function controller is the **e-bx**, which is found within the R-net programming environment under the path **“Seating > Amylior ISM”**. Note that standard PG Drives Technology R-net documentation often refers to ISM (Intelligent Seating Module) or SM (Seating Module) generally, but for Amylior systems utilizing the e-bx/iQ actuators, the specific parameters are housed under **Amylior ISM**.
A. Accessing and Utilizing Amylior ISM Parameters
Programming the R-net electronics requires Amylior's instructions, the **R-Net Programmer software**, and an R-net Dongle (either wired or Wi-Fi). The Amylior ISM settings are organized into three key sub-menus:
Sub-Menu
Description
Key Programmable Parameters
1. General
Displays actuator settings and values.
**Maximum and Minimum limit values** (Max limit #X, Min limit #X).
2. Actuator Setup
Contains settings influencing the performance of individual actuators.
**Acceleration, Deceleration, Speed Up/Down** for each actuator channel. This menu also holds soft start/stop position angles for specialized features like the stander actuator (e.g., using "Set point 1").
3. Axis Setup
Adjusts movements related to specific power functions (axes).
**Acceleration & Deceleration values on axis** and **actuator “Latched” mode** settings.
B. Actuator Channel and Axis Assignment
The e-bx controls up to 6 actuator channels. Understanding how these channels are assigned to physical components is essential for troubleshooting and configuring:
Actuator Channel (#)
Default Functionality
Notes/Context
1
Seat tilt actuator
2
Backrest recline actuator
3
Seat elevate actuator
4
Center mount legrest actuator
5
Left legrest actuator *or* Left stander actuator
Assigned based on whether the chair has separate power legrests or the standing option.
6
Right legrest actuator *or* Right stander actuator
Assigned based on whether the chair has separate power legrests or the standing option.
The R-net system supports up to 12 actuator axes. When modifying axes, particularly in chairs with the standing option (Alltrack M3 Ascent), the assignments include:
Axis 1: Tilt
Axis 2: Recline
Axis 3: Seat elevate
Axis 8: Center mount legrest
Axis 10: Stander
C. Streamlining Power Seat Module Configuration (Troubleshooting & Installation)
For seamlessly modifying the power seat package (retrofitting or removing), mastery of programming, fault detection, and physical installation procedures is paramount.
Programming and Initial Checks:
Save Everything: Before making modifications, always **save the chair’s programming** and the **event log (faults/error codes)** to a PC/device. This provides a clean starting point.
Factory Reset: If configuration errors (like error **965A**—configuration mistake between R-net and e-bx settings) are detected, reloading a previously saved program or performing a **"Reset to Preset"** feature (restoring factory programming) should be attempted first.
Actuator Position Reset: If replacing an **individual actuator**, a **position reset** must be executed for the new actuator. This can often be achieved through the **Second special boot-up mode** using a 5-push button keypad to move the targeted actuator from minimum to maximum position.
Module Replacement: If replacing an **entire module** (tilt, recline, seat elevate, legrests), a position reset is typically **not necessary** because the new module is factory-calibrated.
Physical Installation and Safety (Avoiding Wear/Damage):
Wire Management is Critical: Qualified technicians performing seating system modifications **must ensure there is no potential for pinched wires** throughout the entire range of movement of the power positioning options, as this can cause damage to the electrical system and lead to injury.
Cable Routing: When installing cables for moving modules (e.g., power elevate or center mount), ensure tie wraps are tightened only halfway so that cables can move freely, preventing strain or pinching.
Faulty Actuator Diagnosis: If an actuator constantly stops under load, it should be replaced. If a function disappears entirely, the actuator is likely not communicating. If the replacement of an actuator does not solve the problem, reducing the speed and/or acceleration of the involved actuators in the R-net Programmer may be necessary.
To view the current settings of the R-net system, especially the Actuator Status (Channel Current, Total Current, Axis Direction), you can use the **System Logs** feature within the R-net programmer software.
Key Takeaway
Mastering seamless reconfiguration requires treating the modular seat components (**hardware**) and the electronic control system (**software/programming**) as interconnected parts. The introduction of the e-bx/iQ architecture simplifies mechanical assembly via plug-n-play features, but technician efficiency relies heavily on correctly configuring the specific **Amylior ISM** parameters (**General, Actuator Setup, Axis Setup**) to match the installed hardware, while diligently practicing proper wire management to prevent system damage. This approach ensures customized chair bases meet customer requirements reliably.
This process is analogous to tuning a complex musical instrument: the individual strings (actuators) must be calibrated correctly (position reset, speed/acceleration parameters set via Amylior ISM) to harmonize with the overall composition (the chair's specific configuration profile), otherwise the resulting performance (chair function) will produce an error (a configuration mistake).
Mobility System Function Limitations
Mobility System Function Limitations
Safety measures restrict movement when stability or user position might be compromised. The restrictions below apply to Standard, ISM, and Custom functions.
