The Hand Brake Lever Extension is used for people that do not have full strength in their hand & unable to press the button to release the hand brake.
Vehicle Modification for Disadvantaged Drivers in Melbourne
Frank’s Engineering, in consultation with occupational therapists, aims to assist many physically disadvantaged people to continue leading as independent a life as possible through vehicle modifications. The products available are wide and varied, designed to provide the maximum benefit to our clients. We’re constantly on the lookout for innovative new products, to continue improving the quality of life for physically disadvantaged drivers in Melbourne.
Hand Controls
Monarch Hand Controls
The Monarch Hand Controls are available with 2 different formats:
- Push/Pat – Down towards lap for acceleration, forward for braking
- Push/Pull – Pull for acceleration, push for braking.
Wired & Wireless Satellite Accelerator
The new innovative AC2002 Satellite Accelerator has been designed to be used in any driving situation, giving maximum freedom of movement and precise acceleration. Available for left or right hand and designed to be worn like a glove. The spring loaded sliding hand locator, changeable brackets and padding ensure correct fitment to all hand sizes. The advanced design eliminates any interference when holding or turning the steering wheel. The Satellite Accelerator is available in two models wired & wireless & various colours.
Acceleration is achieved by lightly pressing the thumb against a small lever. This actuates a potentiometer and dedicated ECU that interfaces with the vehicles original electronic system. The dedicated software enables individual programming to suit both driver and vehicle characteristics. This translates to a smooth progressive acceleration curve. The safety cut out mechanism eliminates acceleration on vehicle start up and when braking is applied. In the event that both accelerator and brake are applied simultaneously, the accelerator is cancelled.
Brake Lever
This product comes with a brake lever. Get in touch with us to find out more.
Over Ring Accelerator
The new innovative FR33 Over Ring Accelerator has been designed to provide comfortable, safe and precise acceleration.
The design reflects the new philosophy of driving aids, returning both hands to the steering wheel. Acceleration is achieved by lightly pushing the ring towards the steering wheel. Indestructible, reliable, manageable, and super lightweight best describes the design. The dedicated software enables individual programming to suit both driver & vehicle characteristics. This translates to a smooth progressive acceleration curve.
While accelerating/driving with the Over Ring Accelerator, both hands remain on the steering wheel, however remaining in easy reach of the brake lever, gear lever, auxiliary commands on the dashboard and steering wheel, and flaps for sequential gearshift.
Brake Lever FS2001
The new FS2001 Brake Lever is characterised by an aesthetically pleasing design that is functional and user friendly. The injection moulded cover is available in an array of colours to suite any vehicle interior and the mechanical action guarantees a precise brake application. Braking is achieved by pushing the lever away from the body in the direction of the brake pedal. The absence of secondary linkages for accelerator function ensures a slop free action that delivers the safest and most efficient means of mechanically actuating the brake.
Features:
- Brake locking function, acceleration lock & horn
- Integrated keypad optional providing control of lights, indicators & horn with Can-Bus compatibility
- Easy height & angle adjustment of the brake lever
- Available in left & right hand versions
- Colour options includes black, carbon, pink, violet, silver & walnut
Combined Brake & Accelerator
The new FS2005 Combined Brake and Accelerator is built around an intelligent and aesthetically pleasing design that is functional and user friendly. It is operated by pushing the lever for brake, and turning the trigger for acceleration. The light action of the trigger eliminates fatigue and provides the option of holding the steering wheel with two hands while controlling the accelerator trigger with the little finger.
Features:
- Brake locking function, acceleration lock & horn
- Integrated keypad optional providing control of lights, indicators & horn with Can-Bus compatibility
- Easy height & angle adjustment of the brake lever
- Available in left & right hand versions
- Colour options includes black, carbon, pink, violet, silver & walnut
Indicator Extension for LHS or RHS
An extension lever is custom made for your vehicle.
Indicator / Horn Switch
An indicator & horn switch can be fitted to the Hand Controls to enable the driver to use these functions easier. An Indicator Extension Lever can also be made. A Modification of standard indicator systems using lever extenders which can be adjusted to suit individual needs. A range of lever extensions can be manufactured to enable the driver to easier operate Windscreen Wipers, Power Windows, Gear Change, Hand Brake etc.
Spinner Knobs & Keypads
Variety of Spinner Knobs
Frank’s Engineering offers a variety of standard Spinner Knobs that are suitable for driver’s special needs.
We offer a variety of standard quick-release spinner knobs, C Shaped Spinner, Fork Spinner, Tri-Spinner knob and many more.
RB SP Classic Spinner Knob
The unique JoySpinner, is a spinner knob with a built-in Remote Control joy stick for secondary driving operation.
- Easy Joystick Activation – 3 or 10 functions
- Ergonomically designed for comfort
- Functions include, indicators/horn switch, windscreen wipers, windscreen wash, lights, hi beam flash and hazard lights.
RB SP Large Spinner Knob
The unique JoySpinner, is a spinner knob with a built-in Remote Control joy stick for secondary driving operation.
- Easy Joystick Activation – 3 or 10 functions
- Ergonomically designed for comfort
- Functions include, indicators/horn switch, windscreen wipers, windscreen wash, lights, hi beam flash and hazard lights.
RB RC Keypad
RC – 5 is a 5 Button RF Remote Control Kit
This activates up to 9x Signaller functions.
The RC – 5 Remote control is a stand-alone 5 button unit powered by a lithium battery.
It is designed to be installed to the steering wheel or to the Spinner adapter for easy operation.
RB HC Hand Controls
A 6 Button Hard-wire illuminated console Keyboard.
All the buttons are silicone rubber icon switches and back-lit for night viewing.
When activated each icon will illuminate, and when de-activated, a beep will be heard and the icon button will cease illumination.
Lodgesons
Lodgesons wireless keypad controls are designed to provide disabled drivers with the utmost in functionality, comfort and design. Our R200 systems allow people with restricted mobility to steer the car whilst operating the indicators, lights, horn and wipers safely with just one hand. Simply pressing a button activates the required function.
A Choice of a quick release steering ball or a quick release lollipop grip.
Lodgesons quick release steering ball is the highest quality available on the market.
Features include:
- Tilt and rotate keypad
- Easily removable from steering wheel
- Lubricant free design –no more grease or oil!
- Soft touch grip that greatly increases driver comfort
The Steering Ball (left image) can also be purchased on its own as a manual steering aid and has the same great features
The Lollipop Grip (right image) is a great new alternative to the standard steering ball style control. Simple to use, it is easily gripped and has a soft touch design that greatly increases driver comfort.
All our grips are quick release designs that are easily removed from the wheel and totally lubricant free! So no more grease or oil in your car. The lollipop can also be purchased on its own as a manual steering aid, and has the same great ergonomic features.
Lodgesons Mini Keypad
We have recently launched our new 10/13 function Mini Keypad for Hand Controls.
Compatible with all makes & models of hand control, the keypad will operate –
- indicators
- lights (dip/main/flash)
- horn
- front wipers & washers
- rear wash/wipe
- hazards*
With a green back-light and dividers between each of the buttons to guide the user, the keypad is very easily operated; even in the dark! The indicators will also self-cancel on some vehicles.
Brake & Pedal Accessibility
Left Accelerator Flip-Up Type
Right Accelerator Flip-Down Like Normal
Fadiel Left Foot Floor Mounted Accelerator
Left Foot Accelerators
There are 2 types of left foot accelerators that can be fitted dependent on the vehicle:
- The Flip Up Type: Used for standard fire wall mounted pedals. Right pedal flips up out of the way, left pedal flips down & vice versa (left image)
- The Fadiel Left Foot Accelerator: a Floor Mounted Accelerator, that the bracket that fits over the existing accelerator pedal (right image). This is used in vehicles that have a floor mounted accelerator pedal. (ie: some European makes, Volkswagon, BMW, Audi & Mercedes) Not all models will have to use this bracket.
T-Bar Extension
The T – Bar Extension is used for people that do not have full strength in their hand & are unable to press the button to change the gear on their vehicle.
Hand Brake Lever & T-Bar Extension
Pedal Extensions
Pedal Extensions are made to measure for short statured people & are fully removable. This is Custom made after assessment of client. We also offer a Custom made cushion for short statured people & can raise floor step to enable short statured people to get in & out of seat easily.
Vehicle Accessibility
Manual Ramps
The Movia Access Ramps manufactured by Fadiel Italiana present a new approach to ramp design previously unseen in the market. The concept revolves around a number of design features focusing on simplicity and lightness. Easy to use, reliable, functional, super strong, best describe the range of Movia Access Ramps.
Walking Rails
Custom made for client’s requirements.
Boot Straps In Rear of Car
For clients that have difficulty reaching up to close the boot. The Boot Strap is ideal accessory, custom made for vehicle & client’s needs.
Wheelchair & Scooter Hoists
Wymo Wheelchair Hoist
The Wymo Wheelchair Hoist is a true solution to the problem of Independence of a disabled driver. The Wheelchair Hoist is unlike anything from anywhere in the world, it is an original Australian invention & 100% Australian Made, many thousands have been manufactured and distributed worldwide over the last 29 Years. The Wymo Wheelchair Hoist provides independence to a motorist who requires a wheelchair in their daily life. The Hoist fits onto the roof of the car & is operated by a switch mounted on the dash board or hand held control unit, from either the river’s or passenger’s side.
The hoist works through the following steps:
- The driver approaches the car and opens the car door.
- The driver transfers from his/her wheelchair into the driver’s seat.
- The driver presses down on the switch unit and lowers the lifting strap and hooks it to the wheelchair.
- The driver presses up on the switch unit and raises the wheelchair.
- Just as the hoist is vertical the driver attaches a locking strap to outer wheel of the wheelchair.
- The wheelchair continues to load until reaching a cut-off switch and sitting flat on the roof.
Small Fold-Down Trunk Lifter Hoist – 2 Way Power
Small Fold Down Trunk Lifter is quick, effortless loading of your scooter or wheelchair.
How To Use Small 2 Way Trunk Lifter Hoist:
- With the scooter/wheelchair attach the bracket to the scooter
- Simply press the Up button & the scooter will be lifted.
- Once the scooter has reached the correct height manoeuvred into the vehicle
- Press the Down button to lower the scooter into the position
Features:
- Lifts mobility vehicles weighing up to 80kg
- Tailor made fitting kits to suit most vehicles
- Installs inside Vehicle
- Remote Hand Control included
Small Fold-Down Trunk Lifter Hoist – 4 Way Power
How To Use Small 4 Way Trunk Lifter Hoist:
- With the scooter/wheelchair attach the bracket to the scooter
- Simply press the Up button & the scooter will be lifted.
- Once the scooter has reached the correct height, press the In button & the scooter can be manoeuvred into the vehicle
- Press the Down button to lower the scooter into the position
80kg 4 Way Hoist Crane Action (COMPACT)
The 80kg Compact is capable of lifting a larger range of mini scooters and wheelchairs into even more vehicles. The innovative quick release spreader bar enables you to lift and load multiple wheelchairs or scooters, safely and easily.
SG35 Hoist
The SG35 Hoist manufactured by SMDM is designed to be lateral mounted to assist those wanting to store a wheelchair directly from the driver or passenger seat. It is also suitable for stowage of a wheelchair in the rear of the vehicle. Featuring electronic lifting and manual rotation from the two points of pivot. Lifting is actuated by buttons located on the Hoist, alternatively a remote keypad can be fitted. The SG35 Hoist is rated to 35kgs and is easily installed with the adjustable angle fixing bracket.
Features:
- Lateral mounted for stowing a wheelchair directly from the driver or passenger seat.
- Load rated to 35kgs
- Electronic lifting/lowering & rotation
- Manual rotation by articulated joints
- Easily installed with the adjustable angle fixing bracket.
SG50 Hoist
The SG50 Hoist features electronic lift with manual rotation from the main shaft and articulated joint. This dual pivot provides greater manoeuvrability of the scooter or wheelchair within the vehicle. Load rated to 50kgs, the SG50 is designed to be floor mounted and can be laid flat in the vehicle when not in use.
Features:
- Floor mounted for and foldable for easy stowing
- Load rated to 50kgs
- Electronic lifting/lowering & rotation
- Manual rotation by articulated joint and swivelling base
- Easily installed with the universal fixing bracket.
Harmar AL003 Tilt-N-Tote
Harmar AL003 Tilt-N-Tote is a lightweight, yet capable wheelchair carrier.
Its innovative tilting joint makes rolling the wheelchair on and off fast and easy. It also features an adjustable hold- down arm that keeps the wheelchair safe and secure. The Tilt-N-Tote’s compact size and efficient design allows this lift to fold down for tail/lift gate access and fold up when not in use.
Features:
- Carries manual wheelchairs
- Tilting joint for roll-on ease
- Unique, adjustable hold-down arm
- Folds down to allow access to tail and lift gate
- No wheelchair modifications necessary
- Folds up when not in use
Large Trunk Lifter Hoist
The Large Trunk Lifter Hoist is highly adjustable to fit most vehicle makes & models.
How to Use Large Trunk Lifter Hoist:
- Connect arm to scooter/wheelchair
- Using the remote Lift Up
- Using the remote press In and lower as required into the back of the vehicle
Features:
- Simple & Easy to use
- Hoist available in 150kg & 200kg
- Ideal for Scooters, Powerchairs & Wheelchairs.
- Adjustable to fit most vehicles
- Available in 4 Way Power only
- Adjustable Column Height
- Remote Control powered by vehicle battery
SG180 Hoist
The SG180 Hoists are ideal when challenged with placing a scooter or wheelchair into the tight constraints of a motor vehicle. Rated to 180kgs and featuring electric rotation and lift. The uniqueness of the SG180 is evidenced in its ability to operate the telescopic arm under full load. This feature is available in manual or electric. Designed with the option of straight arm design or left/right orientation. Operated by keypad control. All hoists are provided with adjustable fixing arms for secure floor installation.
Harmar AL300 Universal Power Chair Lift with Swing Away Option
Harmar’s durable, American-made AL300 Universal Power Chair Lift is the world’s most popular outside platform lift. The AL300 is easy to operate and built to last for years of trouble-free use. The universal design safely transports the power chair without making any chair modifications.
Specifications
- Lifting Capacity – 159kg
- Aluminium deck size – 27.5″ x 39″
- Hitch height (range)- 127mm – 457mm
- Installed Weight – 45kg
Milford Person Lift with Swing
The Milford Person Lift is designed to smoothly transfer a person from their wheelchair into a car seat. It is made from strong, lightweight aluminium and can lift up to 149kg. When the lifting device is not in use, it can be easily detached providing the necessary leg room.
How it works in 4 simple steps
- Place the sling onto the seat before or after the user is seated.
- Securely attach the sling to the 4 point lifting attachment.
- Using the remote, press the up button to guide the person into the car.
- Unclip the sling and stow the lift ready for travel.
Checklist for Vehicle Modification
Monarch Hand Controls
- Check if the car has a knee airbag? Some vehicles with knee airbags can have hand controls fitted & some vehicles cannot be fitted.
- Check before purchasing vehicle if compatible.
Indicator & Horn Switch
- Check with Frank’s Engineering P/L staff to see if your car can have an Indicator & Horn Switch installed? This is dependent on model of car.
Left Foot Accelerator
Most cars can have a left foot accelerator fitted, it just depends on which type of accelerator pedal is fitted. If your car has a floor mounted accelerator pedal, you may need to have a Fadiel or Fujicon Floor Mounted Accelerator fitted.
RB-SP with RB12 Interface & Lodgesons
- Check if your car can have this installed into your vehicle as it varies from vehicle to vehicle. It depends on vehicle model & year & if compatible with this system.
- Check with Frank’s Engineering P/L staff to see if your car can have this modification fitted to your car before purchasing vehicle.
These products include but are not limited to:
- Wymo Wheelchair Hoist – fitted to roof of vehicle (Authorized Fitter)
- Monarch Hand Controls – Accelerator and Brake
- Indicator/Horn Switch – fitted to hand controls
- Left Foot Accelerator – Flip Up or Removable
- Spinner Knob Kits – fitted to steering wheel for easier turning
- Indicator/Wiper Extension Lever
- Panoramic Mirror Kits
- Small Trunk Lifter – to lift wheelchair or small scooter into boot/rear of vehicle
- Large Trunk Lifter – to lift larger scooters into vehicles
- Dual brake
- Moving seats back – to allow for easier access and better driving position
- Pedal Extensions – for drivers who need a little extra leg length