The Joy Factory’s Charis Wheelchair Mount For iPad Is Awesome

 

3:15 PM EDT, Oct. 15th, 2012 · Nancy Gravley · Quick Look Review

The Charis Wheelchair Mount for iPad 2 and iPad 3 from The Joy Factory is an adaptation that can be swiftly and easily added to any wheelchair to hold the iPad in a place that is both comfortable and easy to reach for the individual who relies on the chair for transportation. It works with both electric and standard wheelchairs.

Charis Wheelchair Mount

The Charis mounts are built of high-quality carbon fiber arms. The material that is used is surprisingly lightweight yet incredibly strong. There is a double arm design and special joint designs that also contributes to the strength.

Chair Wheelchair Mount arm component

The clamp mount will clamp to any flat surface as would be expected, but it is also grooved, thus allowing it to clamp to the round spokes of any wheelchair. The clamp mount will clamp around any flat or round object up to two inches (5.08 cm). Like the other joints that are a part of the product, the joint that connects to the clamp rotates.

Clamp mount with groves

Part of the Charis Mount is a custom case for the iPad that attaches to the arms with a unique magnet system. Although the review unit is for the iPad 2 and 3, there is also a custom case available for the original iPad. The iPad must be inserted into the case for the magnet system, called the MagConnect™ to work. Once the magnet in the case and the magnet in the arm connect, a precision screw tightens for a secure fit. Once securely in the case, the iPad can be rotated 360 degrees. The iPad can remain in the case and be removed from the mount by unscrewing the case so it can be used away from the wheelchair. There is a button cover on the back of the case that protects the magnet on the back of the case.

Custom iPad case attached to arm

Using the product
As noted, there are two part to the Charis. The arm component and the iPad case. The case is compatible with the Apple Smart Cover. The first step of installation is installing the arms. This involves identifying the appropriate place on the chair to attach the arms. This will take some trial and error on the part of both the installer and the consumer. (This is particularly true if the installer doesn’t know her right from her left, but we won’t go there.)
Once the ideal location has been identified, then it is a simple process to adjust the different portions of the arms and case to have the iPad at the exact place the consumer wants it to be.

Charis Mount in use

The adjustable arm design allow the arms to be loosened by turning one lever and moving the arms out of the way without changing the basic setup of the Charis. The same is true when the Charis needs to be moved back in place.
The Joy Factory, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser against defects in materials and workmanship for the period of one year unless specified. In addition the company provides a free service to customers who register for it. It includes an extended three year warranty and special customer support should special needs require modifications.
Do I recommend it?

I do. This product is well designed and well constructed and anyone, even me, can install it in under half an hour. I have 30 years experience working with people with various disabilities and I think this product is a marvelous enhancement for anyone who wants their iPad at hand.

Company: The Joy Factory

List Price: US$179.95

Pros: Well built, strong, well designed mount allows individuals in wheelchairs to have independent access to their iPads.

Cons: None noted.

Nancy Gravley

Nancy retired from a position in human services after 30 years and is spending her retirement years spreading the joy of the Mac. She teaches beginner skills, writes a blog, and serves as president of a large Mac User Group (MUG) in addition to writing and reviewing products for TMO. She has three children, three grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Life is good.