Design and Function : Why Choose a Car Seat Swivel Chair?

A car seat swivel chair is key to making the vehicle accessible for the elderly, disabled, and those recovering from orthopedic surgeries. A swivel seat is designed to reduce the awkward body movements made while getting in and out of a vehicle.

While the swivel car chairs are most beneficial for those with mobility issues as it empowers them, its functional benefits are not limited to them. Let’s have a deep dive into why one must choose a car seat swivel chair and look at its design and function.

Key Design Features of Car Seat Swivel Chair?

The key design features of a car seat swivel chair that differentiate it from a regular car seat are that it rotates and pivots outside the car for easier access. The rotation is because of a swivel plate, which attaches between the chassis and the chair, allowing the rotational and pivoting movement. 

The swivel system can be as simple as just adding a swivel base to the OEM seat, while other, more modern solutions include a swivel seat that is fully adjustable, automated, and, in addition to rotating, can be lowered as well. Some key design features offered by the swivel chair are as follows:

Rotation (up to 360⁰)

A car seat swivel chair comes in various models compatible with different vehicles. Depending on the model, a chair can swivel 90⁰, 180⁰, and some can rotate up to 360⁰. 

Locking and Safety Mechanism 

Since the swivel seat rotates, it is crucial to make sure that it doesn’t move when a vehicle is in motion. Hence, locking mechanisms are built into the swivel system. Depending on the model, the locking system can be engaged at various degrees of rotation (90,180,270 and 360 degrees)

Other safety mechanisms include a solid connector to make sure the seat is attached firmly, harnesses or the ability to work with OEM safety belts, and compatibility with the OEM airbags.

Power-operated vs. Manual Car Seat Swivel Chair

The most basic swivel seats are manually operated and require the person to exert physical force to operate it. The modern, automatic option has a motor installed in the swivel system, which is operated via a button on the chair. The power-operated seats usually come with an automatic locking system as well. 

Adjustability and Comfort Features

The top-end swivel seats come with the option to adjust various aspects of the chair. These include the ability to recline, move the chair forward or backward, adjustable headrest and thigh support, lumbar support as well as heated and ventilated chairs.

Functional Benefits of a Car Seat Swivel Chair

A car seat swivel chair has functional benefits for those with mobility concerns and their caretakers. A swivel seat empowers by making the vehicle accessible and at the same time offering comfort. For the caretakers, it reduces the strain that they might encounter.

Improves Accessibility to the Vehicle 

One has to make the awkward movement of bending back and neck, as well as raising legs, to get into a vehicle with a regular seat. A swivel chair makes this transition of getting inside & outside the vehicle seamless without putting any strain on the joints. 

Empowerment 

A swivel chair, depending on the model, can be installed in any passenger seat, front or back, and also the driver’s seat. One does not have to rely on someone else for commuting. Whether it is the driver to work or a long trip, a swivel seat gives those struggling with mobility issues the freedom to go wherever & whenever they want without requiring any help.

Improved Comfort for Long Trips

A long trip means getting in and out of the car multiple times, which may become a hassle for the elderly and disabled. A swivel seat ensures smooth entry & exit to the vehicle as many times as required. The top-end swivel seat also usually comes with better padding, cushioning, and support than stock seats, making the long hours in the car comfortable.

Reduces Caregiver Strain

A caregiver may be required to physically support the person as they get inside the car, which in the long run takes a toll on the body. A swivel seat allows for easier transfers, and the physical effort required from the caregiver becomes negligible.

A swivel seat for a caregiver allows them to rotate within the vehicle to communicate better and get better access to the one who requires care. 

Transfer Friendly 

Those in a wheelchair are required to get up from it, and then make the awkward movement of getting inside the car. However, in the case of a swivel seat, on cam, just collapse the arms of the wheelchair, and transfer on the swivel seat using a transfer board or otherwise. 

The JCBL Mobility Orbit Roll Swivel seat converts into a wheelchair after pivoting outside the car and has joystick control. In this case, the transfer doesn’t require any movement from those in the seat.