← Product Code [ITI](/productcode/ITI) · K153636 # Liberator Powered Wheelchair with Solar Companion (K153636) _Solar Mobilityllc · ITI · Sep 9, 2016 · Physical Medicine · SESE_ **Canonical URL:** https://fda-staging.innolitics.com/device/K153636 ## Device Facts - **Applicant:** Solar Mobilityllc - **Product Code:** [ITI](/productcode/ITI.md) - **Decision Date:** Sep 9, 2016 - **Decision:** SESE - **Submission Type:** Traditional - **Regulation:** 21 CFR 890.3860 - **Device Class:** Class 2 - **Review Panel:** Physical Medicine ## Indications for Use The intended use of the Liberator™ is to provide mobility for those persons limited to a seated position, which are capable of operating a simple hand control. The Liberator™ may be operated on internal DC batteries, which can be recharged by using a wall- charger and supplemented by using the detachable solar assisted battery maintaining device (Solar Companion). ## Device Story Six-wheeled battery-powered wheelchair; welded steel frame; center-drive motor/gear assemblies. User operates via hand-controlled joystick. Features air-ride suspension seat with integrated ventilation fan and lumbar cushion. Includes 'Solar Companion'—a detachable, adjustable solar panel assembly that maintains internal DC batteries based on sunlight intensity/angle to extend travel range. Used by patients with mobility limitations; operated by the patient. Provides mobility; solar component extends battery life/range; air-ride seat reduces jarring/friction/shear for patient comfort. ## Clinical Evidence No clinical data. Substantial equivalence supported by bench testing per RESNA WC-1 and WC-2 standards, including stability, braking, energy consumption, electromagnetic compatibility (ISO 7176-21), and structural fatigue testing. ## Technological Characteristics Welded steel frame; 6-wheel configuration; 2x NF22 batteries; DC motor drive. Features: Solar Companion (photovoltaic battery maintainer), air-ride suspension seat with ventilation fan. Connectivity: None. Sterilization: N/A. Software: None. ## Regulatory Identification A powered wheelchair is a battery-operated device with wheels that is intended for medical purposes to provide mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position. ## Predicate Devices - Golden Spyder ([K041341](/device/K041341.md)) - AFU-14CF Expedition Dental System ([K050201](/device/K050201.md)) ## Submission Summary (Full Text) > This content was OCRed from public FDA records by [Innolitics](https://innolitics.com). If you use, quote, summarize, crawl, or train on this content, cite Innolitics at https://innolitics.com. > > Innolitics is a medical-device software consultancy. We help companies design, build, and clear FDA-regulated software and AI/ML devices, including [a 510(k)](https://innolitics.com/services/510ks/), [a De Novo](https://innolitics.com/services/regulatory/), [a SaMD](https://innolitics.com/services/end-to-end-samd/), [an AI/ML medical device](https://innolitics.com/services/medical-imaging-ai-development/), or [an FDA regulatory strategy](https://innolitics.com/services/regulatory/). {0}------------------------------------------------ Image /page/0/Picture/1 description: The image shows the logo for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The logo consists of a stylized eagle with three lines representing its body and wings. The eagle is facing right. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - USA" is arranged in a circular pattern around the eagle. Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Document Control Center - WO66-G609 Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002 September 9, 2016 Solar Mobility LLC % E.J Smith Consultant Smith Associates 1468 Harwell Avenue Crofton, Maryland 21114 Re: K153636 Trade/Device Name: Liberator Powered Wheelchair with Solar Companion Regulation Number: 21 CFR 890.3860 Regulation Name: Powered Wheelchair Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: ITI Dated: August 9, 2016 Received: August 9, 2016 Dear E.J Smith: We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration. Please note: CDRH does not evaluate information related to contract liability warranties. We remind you, however, that device labeling must be truthful and not misleading. If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register. Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply {1}------------------------------------------------ Page 2 - E.J Smith with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting (reporting of medical devicerelated adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050. If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801), please contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportaProblem/default.htm for the CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance. You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Industry and Consumer Education at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 796-7100 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/default.htm. Sincerely yours, # Michael J. Hoffmann -A Carlos L. Peña, PhD, MS for Director Division of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health Enclosure {2}------------------------------------------------ ## Indications for Use 510(k) Number (if known) K153636 Device Name Liberator Powered Wheelchair with Solar Companion Indications for Use (Describe) The intended use of the Liberator™ is to provide mobility for those persons limited to a seated position, which are capable of operating a simple hand control. The Liberator™ may be operated on internal DC batteries, which can be recharged by using a wall- charger and supplemented by using the detachable solar assisted battery maintaining device (Solar Companion). Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | | Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D) | |----------------------------|----------------------------------------------| |
| Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C) | CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED. This section applies only to requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. #### *DO NOT SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE PRA STAFF EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW.* The burden time for this collection of information is estimated to average 79 hours per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather and maintain the data needed and complete and review the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this information collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to: > Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration Office of Chief Information Officer Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Staff PRAStaff(@fda.hhs.gov "An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB number." {3}------------------------------------------------ ## 510(k) Summary #### Sponsor: | Company Name: | Solar Mobility LLC | |---------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Address: | 1426 East 3rd Avenue Suite B110
Kennewick, WA 99336 | | Telephone: | 509.851.3611 | | Contact Person: | Kurt Schneider | | Summary Preparation Date: | August 28, 2016 | | Device Name | | | Trade Name: | Liberator Powered Wheelchair with Solar Companion | | Common Usual Name: | Powered Wheelchair | | Classification Name: | Powered Wheelchair | | Product Code(s): | ITI | | Regulation Number: | 21 CFR 890.3860 | | Device Class: | Class II | | Panel: | Office of Device Evaluation (ODE) Division of Neurological and Physical
Medicine Devices | #### Predicate Device: | Manufacturer | Brand Name | 510(k) Number | |---------------------------|--------------------------------------|---------------| | Golden Technologies, Inc. | Golden Spyder | K041341 | | Aspetic International | AFU-14CF Expedition Dental
System | K050201 | #### Device Description: The Liberator™ powered wheelchair is a six wheeled battery powered wheelchair. It has a controller system, which is used to operate the Liberator™ powered wheelchair. The one-piece base of the wheelchair is made of welded steel construction. The main frame also consists of a battery floor pan. The center drive wheels are mounted on the drive shafts of separate motor/gear assemblies, one on the left side of the wheelchair, the other on the right side of the wheelchair. The seat comes with ergonomic contoured comfort cushions, recliner, tilt-up adjustable arm rests, and patient can dial in their seating {4}------------------------------------------------ Position, can adjust the setting for air fan control, joy stick adjustments and table adjustments and settings. The Liberator™ powered wheelchair requires 2 NF22 batteries, has an on board charger, the Solar Companion, with solar panel and an assisted battery maintaining device (Solar Companion). The Liberator™ powered wheelchair has a maximum load capacity of 300 lbs. The Liberator™ can travel at ranges of 15-20 miles with maximum speed of 4.09 miles per hour on flat terrain under ideal conditions (RESNA testing). In order to achieve the maximum extended range of 20 miles the Solar Companion has the ability to maintain the batteries based on the intensity, angle, and availability of sunlight. The Liberator™ has an air ride suspension system seat, cushion ventilation system (fan) for the seat and lumbar cushion with laser ported holes in fabric. The Solar Companion is an onboard battery maintaining device that comes with the Liberator™. It has the ability to maintain the batteries based on availability sunlight intensity and angle. The solar panel assembly is affixed to the Liberator™ and the height can be adjusted to allow the user excellent visibility #### Indications for Use The intended use of the Liberator™ is to provide mobility for those persons limited to a seated position, which are capable of operating a simple hand control. The Liberator™ may be operated on internal DC batteries, which can be recharged by using a wallcharger and supplemented by using the detachable solar assisted battery maintaining device (Solar Companion). ### Technological Characteristics Discussion The Liberator™ powered wheelchair and the predicate have identical frame material, overall length and width, maximum speed, turning radius, controller, battery type, AC-Wall Charger, suspension system, drive wheels, casters, footplate adjustable heights, armrest type, seat size depth, and wheel locks. The Liberator™ powered wheelchair has similar seat size widths and heights, back adjustment angle, armrest heights, and upholstery material. The Liberator™ powered wheelchair has a battery maintaining device (Solar Companion) which is not offered on the predicate device. The Solar Companion safety was established by conducting EMC testing and effectiveness was determined through RESNA testing. The Liberator™ Powered Wheelchair incorporates a seat cushion which allows the user to have an air ride suspension system which reduces the amount of jarring, friction and shear factor associated with a normal wheelchair seat and allows for a smoother ride for the patient. The predicate device offers a standard wheelchair cushion. The differences between the two seat cushions raises no new safety issues. This conclusion was reached after the Liberator™ powered wheelchair passed the required RESNA tests. The Liberator™ powered wheelchair and the predicate have a maximum load capacity of 300 lbs. {5}------------------------------------------------ The Liberator™ powered wheelchair has a range per charge of approximately 15-20 miles based on RENSA Testing Section 4 Determination of Energy Consumption Theoretical Range. The predicate device advertises a theoretical range of 15 miles. The RESNA testing for the Liberator™ supports a theoretical range of 15-20 miles per charge. The Liberator™ Powered Wheelchair and predicate have a wheelchair weight and overall height difference due to the fact the Liberator Powered Wheelchair has the Solar Companion onboard battery maintaining device and Solar Companion frame attached to the wheelchair. RESNA testing was conducted with the Solar Companion accessory attached to the wheelchair to ensure the Solar Companion accessory did not have any unintended impact on the performance of the wheelchair. RESNA testing supports the safe use of the Liberator™ with the Solar Companion. The indications for use for the AEU-14CF Expedition Emergency Field Dental Unit differ from the Liberator™ Powered Wheelchair in their intended use. However, both offer the user the capability of prolonging the life of the batteries (while in use) using a solar panel as a source of energy for onboard battery maintenance. Both the subject device and the predicate offer a detachable solar panel. ## Non-Clinical Testing - o RESNA WC-1 Volume Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 1 Determination of static stability - . RESNA WC-2 Volume 2American National Standard for Additional Requirements for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) with Electrical Systems Section 2: Determination of dynamic stability of electrically powered wheelchairs - . RESNA WC-2 Volume 3 Additional Requirements for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) with Electrical Systems Section 3: Determination of effectiveness of brakes - . RESNA WC-2 Volume 2 Section 4: Energy consumption of electrically powered wheelchairs and scooters for determination of theoretical distance - RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 5: Determination of dimensions, mass and maneuvering space - . RESNA WC-2 Volume 2 Additional Requirements for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) with Electrical Systems Section 6: Determination of maximum speed, - RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 7: Method of Measurement of Seating and Wheel Dimensions - . RESNA WC-2 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 8: Requirements and test methods for static, impact and fatigue strengths - RESNA WC-2 Volume 2 Additional Requirements for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) with Electrical Systems Section 9: Climatic tests for electrically powered wheelchairs - . RESNA WC-2 Volume 2 Additional Requirements for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) with Electrical Systems Section 10: Determination of obstacle-climbing ability of electrically powered wheelchairs - RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 11: Test dummies {6}------------------------------------------------ - . RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 13: Determination of coefficient of friction of test surfaces - RESNA WC-2 Volume 2 Additional Requirements for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) with Electrical Systems Section 14: Power and control systems for electrically powered wheelchairs, Requirements and test methods - RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 15: Requirements for information disclosure, documentation and labeling - o RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 16: Resistance to ignition of upholstered parts - Requirements and test methods - . RESNA WC-2 Volume 2 Additional Requirements for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) with Electrical Systems Section 21: Requirements and test methods for electromagnetic compatibility of electrically powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters - . RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheels chairs (including Scooters) Section 22: Set-up procedures - RESNA WC-1 Volume 1 Requirements and Test Methods for Wheelchairs (including Scooters) Section 26: Vocabulary - . ISO 7176-21: 2009 Requirements and Test Methods for Electromagnetic Compatibility of Electric Powered Wheelchairs and Motorized Scooters: Solar Companion onboard battery maintaining device ## Clinical Testing No clinical studies were conducted. ## Conclusion The Liberator™ powered wheelchair has the same intended use and similar technological characteristics as the Golden Spyder. Non-clinical testing and the predicate comparisons demonstrate that any differences in their technological characteristics do not raise any new questions of safety and effectiveness. Thus, the Liberator™ powered wheelchair device is substantially equivalent to the predicate device. --- **Source:** [https://fda-staging.innolitics.com/device/K153636](https://fda-staging.innolitics.com/device/K153636) **Published by [Innolitics](https://innolitics.com)** — a medical-device software consultancy. We help companies design, build, and clear FDA-regulated software and AI/ML devices. If you're preparing [a 510(k)](https://innolitics.com/services/510ks/), [a De Novo](https://innolitics.com/services/regulatory/), [a SaMD](https://innolitics.com/services/end-to-end-samd/), [an AI/ML medical device](https://innolitics.com/services/medical-imaging-ai-development/), or [an FDA regulatory strategy](https://innolitics.com/services/regulatory/), [get in touch](https://innolitics.com/contact). **Cite:** Innolitics at https://innolitics.com