Self-balancing

"Segway" slipped into the lexicon as the commonly used term for a self-balancing ride-on robot soon after the launch of Dean Kamen's famous invention in 2001. The Segway is certainly a unique way to get around and to the casual observer, the way the device operates might seem to defy gravity. There are quite a few DIY projects around the Internet including standard two-wheeled upright versions, unicycles and one wheeled skate boards that operate on the same self-balancing principle. Now a kind soul named Geoffrey Bennett has released an open source version of the firmware required to operate a ride on robot free, allowing anyone with basic mechanical ability and some electronics skills to build their very own self-balancing transport.  Read More

While the unicycle could never be accused of being the most practical form of transport, one or two designs that have emerged in recent years (like the Unomoto and Bombadier's Embrio concept) have identified the potential of combining self-balancing technology with a format that is, well, inherently unbalanced. Known as the electric self-balancing unicycle or SBU, this new incarnation from Focus Designs makes the challenge 50% easier by incorporating a system of accelerometers and gyroscopes to control the forward and backward balance, leaving the rider to concentrate mainly on sideways movement. The other big difference from the traditional design is that there are no pedals or crank arms, just footrests to help balance while you glide along at up to 8mph while controlling speed by leaning forward and backwards.  Read More

August 15, 2006 Segway has unveiled the second generation Segway Personal Transporter (PT) featuring two new and interesting technologies - LeanSteer and a wireless InfoKey controller. The new line includes the versatile Segway i2 and a cross-terrain model called the Segway x2, as well as six product packages tailored to specific commercial and consumer market segments and riding environments. LeanSteer in many ways completes the Segway PT control interface, making it even more intuitive and appealing. Now, all aspects of movement are controlled by the direction the rider moves their body. Lean right to go right, lean left to go left - the Segway PT responds as the rider naturally leans in the desired direction of travel, rather than using a handlebar grip for turning, offering an even more intuitive and enjoyable riding experience that is easy to learn. The advanced design of the new Segway PT and its sophisticated software allow it to differentiate between the rider's steering and changes in the terrain, keeping the rider in a stable and comfortable position when traveling over uneven ground. The new wireless InfoKey controller is an all-in-one key and information center. It allows the rider to set the speed of the Segway PT, and acts as the speedometer, odometer, trip computer, and battery gauge. The InfoKey controller also activates a security system when the unit is parked. If the device is disturbed while the anti-theft alarm is activated, the wheels lock and the device emits an alarm. At the same time a visual alert is sent to the InfoKey controller to notify the owner of the disturbance. The InfoKey controller is small enough to fit onto a keychain or be carried in a pocket.  Read More