-
Για περισσότερες πληροφορίες http://www.segway.com/
**Πώς λετουργεί **
When Dean Kamen unveiled the Segway Human Transporter (HT) on ABC's Good Morning America, he described the machine as 'the world's first self-balancing human transporter.' When you look at the machine in motion, you get an idea of what he's talking about. Unlike a car, the Segway only has two wheels—it looks something like an ordinary hand truck—yet it manages to stay upright by itself.
To move forward or backward on the Segway HT, the rider just leans slightly forward or backward. To turn left or right, the rider simply turns the steering grip left or right.
This balancing act is the most amazing thing about the Segway, and it is the key to its operation. To understand how this system works, it helps to consider Kamen's model for the device—the human body.
If you stand up and lean forward, so that you are out of balance, you probably won't fall on your face. Your brain knows you are out of balance, because fluid in your inner ear shifts, so it triggers you to put your leg forward and stop the fall. If you keep leaning forward, your brain will keep putting your legs forward to keep you upright. Instead of falling, you walk forward, one step at a time.
The Segway HT does pretty much the same thing, except it has wheels instead of legs, a motor instead of muscles, a collection of microprocessors instead of a brain and a set of sophisticated tilt sensors instead of an inner-ear balancing system. Like your brain, the Segway knows when you are leaning forward. To maintain balance, it turns the wheels at just the right speed, so you move forward.
The Brains and the Brawn
At its most basic, the Segway HT is a combination of a series of sensors, a control system and a motor system. In this section, we'll look at each of these elements.
The primary sensor system is an assembly of gyroscopes. A basic gyroscope is a spinning wheel inside a stable frame. A spinning object resists changes to its axis of rotation, because an applied force moves along with the object itself. If you push on a point at the top of a spinning wheel, for example, that point moves around to the front of the wheel while it is still feeling the force you applied. As the point of force keeps moving, it ends up applying force on opposite ends of the wheel—the force balances itself out.
Because of its resistance to outside force, a gyroscope wheel will maintain its position in space (relative to the ground), even if you tilt it. But the gyroscope's frame will move freely in space. By measuring the position of the gyroscope's spinning wheel relative to the frame, a precise sensor can tell the pitch of an object (how much it is tilting away from an upright position) as well as its pitch rate (how quickly it is tilting).
A conventional gyroscope would be cumbersome and difficult to maintain in this sort of vehicle, so the Segway HT gets the same effect with a different sort of mechanism. Segway HTs use a special solid-state angular rate sensor constructed using silicon. This sort of gyroscope determines an object's rotation using the Coriolis effect on a very small scale.
Simply put, the Coriolis effect is the apparent turning of an object moving in relation to another rotating object. For example, an airplane traveling in a straight line appears to turn because the Earth is rotating underneath it.
A typical solid-state silicon gyroscope consists of a tiny silicon plate mounted on a support frame. The silicon particles are moved by an electrostatic current applied across the plate. The particles move in a particular way, which causes the plate to vibrate in a predictable manner. But when the plate is rotated around its axis (that is, when the Segway HT rotates in that particular plane), the particles suddenly shift in relation to the plate. This alters the vibration, and the change is in proportion to the degree of rotation. The gyroscope system measures the change in vibration, and passes this information on to the computer. In this way, the computer can figure out when the Segway HT is rotating along particular axes.
The Segway HT has five gyroscopic sensors, though it only needs three to detect forward and backward pitch as well as leaning to the left or right (termed 'roll'). The extra sensors add redundancy, to make the vehicle more reliable. All of the tilt information, as well as information from additional tilt sensors, is passed on to the brain of the vehicle. The brain is made up of two electronic controller circuit boards, comprising a cluster of microprocessors. The Segway HT has multiple onboard microprocessors, which boast, in total, about three times the power of a typical PC. The vehicle requires this much brain power because it needs to make extremely precise adjustments to keep from falling over. If one board breaks down, the other will take over all functions so that the system can notify the rider of a failure and shut down gracefully.
The microprocessors run an advanced piece of software that controls the vehicle. This program monitors all of the stability information coming from the gyroscopic sensors and adjusts the speed of several electric motors in response to this information. The electric motors, which are powered by a pair of rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, can turn each of the wheels independently at variable speeds.
When the vehicle leans forward, the motors spin both wheels forward to keep from tilting over. When the vehicle leans backward, the motors spin both wheels backward. When the rider operates the steering grip to turn left or right, the motors spin one wheel faster than the other, or spin the wheels in opposite directions, so that the vehicle rotates.
Συχνές ερωτήσειςWhat is the Segway Human Transporter (HT)?
The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is the first self-balancing, electric-powered transportation device. With dimensions no larger than the average adult body and the ability to emulate human balance, the Segway HT uses the same space as a pedestrian, and can go wherever a person can walk. The Segway HT allows people at home and at work to go farther, move more quickly, and increase the amount they can carry anywhere they currently walk.How does the Segway HT work?
Our team developed a breakthrough technology we termed 'dynamic stabilization,' which is the essence of the Segway HT. Dynamic stabilization enables the Segway HT to work seamlessly with the body's movements. Gyroscopes and tilt sensors in the unit monitor a rider's center of gravity at about 100 times a second. When the rider leans slightly forward, the Segway HT moves forward. When the rider leans slightly back, the Segway HT moves backward. For more about how the Segway HT functions, please see How It Works.Does the Segway HT work indoors?
Yes. Every Segway HT is designed to work anywhere people walk. In order to support indoor operation, Michelin created a special tire that is non-marring. The Segway HT is narrower than a standard doorway and is clean and quiet. There are zero emissions.Can I use the Segway HT in varying environments with different climates and terrains?
Yes. Like a person walking, all that a Segway Human Transporter requires is traction to operate in any environment. The device is completely sealed to allow it to operate in wet weather. Our standard tires were optimized for a range of terrain and environmental conditions. We also offer enhanced traction tires for better performance on a wide variety of surfaces.What will the Segway HT allow people to do?
Simply put, the Segway HT allows you to travel farther, move quicker and carry more anywhere you can walk. The Segway HT is used in a multitude of consumer and commercial settings. For personal use, the Segway HT can be used to commute to work, run errands, visit family and friends, explore your community, and have lots of fun doing everyday things. For commercial settings, the Segway HT is ideally suited for large scale manufacturing plants and warehousing operations, travel and tourism, public safety, corporate and campus transportation, as well as mail, package and product delivery.Segway HTs are in some of the world's leading corporations and service organizations including the U.S. Postal Service, National Park Service, the City of Atlanta's Ambassador program, Michelin, GE Plastics, and Delphi Automotive Systems.
How will the Segway HT transform the way people live?
The benefits of widespread usage of the Segway HT are far-reaching, including the creation of more livable communities. We believe that, in time, the Segway HT will lead to a reconfiguration of the way communities are built by significantly extending people's walking zones, thereby enabling better use of space and the transportation infrastructure. The Segway HT will enable people to make better use of their time, interact within their community and contribute to eliminating traffic congestion and pollution.How fast can the Segway HT travel?
Every Segway HT has three different keys that riders may choose from depending on riding environment and level of experience. The Beginner Key (maximum speed of 6 mph and slowest turning rate), allows riders to gain confidence using the machine. The Sidewalk Key (maximum speed of 8 mph and a medium turning rate), allows riders to adapt well in pedestrian environments. The Open Environment Key (maximum speed of 12.5 mph and the most responsive turning rate), allows riders to comfortably cover open spaces. Riders are responsible for riding their Segway HT at appropriate speeds.How long will a Segway HT last?
The Segway HT has been designed to be extremely durable. In order to deliver a durable productivity tool, we pursued two design avenues. First, we built durable mechanical and electrical systems to be in solid state, so even the moving parts were designed for longevity. For example, the motors are brushless servomotors, so there are no parts that could wear out. We then submitted the systems to extensive, rigorous testing to ensure we met our goals. Second, we created a modular design whereby if any part were to wear out or break, it could easily be replaced, ensuring a long product life.Where can I purchase a Segway HT?
The Segway HT i series is available to the general public through Amazon.com. If you are a consumer who is commuting to work, running errands, or shopping at the local mall, the i Series is for you.In certain locations in Florida, Segway HT i Series is available for purchase locally:
J.M. Lexus
5350 West Sample Rd.
Margate, FL 33073
Phone: 800-80-LEXUS NEVrland
741 Front Street, #140
Celebration, FL 34747
Phone: 407-566-0911Businesses can purchase the Segway HT i and e Series models directly from Segway. Each model offers specific attributes that help companies save time, bring more distant locations within reach, and enhance carrying capacity. To order your Segway HT for business use only, please call us toll-free at 1-866-4SEGWAY.
Where did the 'Segway' name originate?
Our inspiration came from the word segue, which is defined as, 'to transition smoothly from one state to another.' A Segway Human Transporter (HT) transforms a person into an empowered pedestrian, allowing him/her to go farther, move more quickly and carry more than could ever be achievable walking.What is the background of Segway?
Segway LLC, based in Manchester, N.H., was founded by inventor and entrepreneur, Dean Kamen, to transform the way people work and live. The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is the result of years of research and development led by Kamen with the goal of building something that would make a unique and lasting contribution to society. Segway LLC received funding from Credit Suisse First Boston Private Equity, Kleiner Perkins Caulfield & Byers and a number of individual investors.You can learn more about the Company here.
What other companies were involved in the development of the Segway HT?
Segway brought together a vital group of industry leading suppliers.Delphi Automotive Systems assisted in the development
of the Segway HT's integrated circuit boards and user interface
components, which are key electronic system elements used
to control the human transporter.GE Plastics provided us with a host of durable
and environmentally friendly materials for our human transporter.
Segway HT is the first commercial application for GE's SOLLX
polymer, a weather resistant film that offers an alternative
to paint.Michelin worked with us to develop tires that had
the proper compound, tread, rolling resistance, and construction
to work with this new form of personal transportation.Pacific Scientific, a Danaher Motion company, specially
designed Segway HT's compact, brushless, electric servo
motor.Saft helped us develop smart-charging, self-contained
NiCd and NiMH batteries.Silicon Sensing Systems, a partnership between BAE and Sumitomo, collaborated with Segway to develop
and perfect our gyroscopes and tilt sensor systems.To view our other development partners, click here.
Where is the Segway HT manufactured?
Segway HTs are assembled eight miles from our corporate headquarters in our Manufacturing and Training facility in Bedford, NH.Where can I get my Segway HT serviced?
Depending upon your need, Segway or an authorized Segway Service Provider can provide service. For troubleshooting or help in diagnosing a problem with your Segway HT, please call us toll-free at 1-866-4SEGWAY.How do I become a distributor or reseller partner of Segway HTs?
We have received several inquiries relating to dealerships and reselling opportunities. We truly appreciate the excitement and interest. We are currently assessing various distribution options and will continue to review applications we receive. If you are interested in becoming a distributor or reseller, please fill out our business registration form.How does the Segway HT safely integrate into pedestrian environments?
Just as pedestrians adjust their walking and jogging tempo to match that of those around them, Segway riders adjust the Segway HT for pedestrian environments. The machine was designed to respond to rider's movements - lean forward, go forward; lean back, go back - so that it could easily become an extension of one's own body. Thousands of hours of sidewalk and other pedestrian environment use by police, emergency medical technicians and postal workers is testimony to the safety and utility of the Segway HT.How safe is the Segway HT?
A great deal of testing and research has gone into ensuring that the Segway HT is safe and fun to ride. The Segway HT has redundant systems and sophisticated alerts built into its design, among other safety features. Many thousands of hours of use have demonstrated the Segway HT is safe when used appopriately. It is important that Segway riders understand the responsibility to ride safely. Proper skill level and understanding of the Segway HT prevents injuries caused by loss of control or misuse. Keep in mind that the Segway HT has not been designed, tested or approved as a medical device.Who can ride the Segway HT?
The Segway HT is designed to be operated by a wide range of people after receiving Segway orientation -- no special skills are required. The rider must be able to step on and off the Segway HT without assistance, which requires physical abilities similar to climbing and descending stairs without assistance. The rider's weight must be between 100 and 250 pounds and the rider must be able to operate the steering control with his or her left hand. Segway recommends that riders be 16 years or older. It is important to note that the Segway HT has not been designed, tested, or approved as a medical device.Where can I safely and legally ride the Segway HT?
The Segway HT will transport you over any surface on which the wheels can gain traction, such as pavement, sidewalks, grass, and dirt. Remember, you must step off the Segway HT and use the power assist mode to go up and down stairs (and elsewhere where riding would not be safe or appropriate). In many cities you'll be able to take the Segway HT any place you are allowed to walk. Some areas, however, have restrictions on where you can take the Segway HT and some areas require that you wear protective gear. Please consult our regulatory page for a list of state laws.What does the red button do?
The red button is referred to as the mode button and allows a user to change the mode of the Segway HT, from balance to power-assist mode (more information about the modes is available). When held for more than two (2) seconds, it also powers down the Segway HT. The mode button only works when a rider is not standing on the Segway HT.How does a Federal Government Agency place an order for Segway HTs?
Segway now has a GSA contract (Contract # GS-07F-0182N Sch. 539). Please visit the GSA Advantage Web site for more details.How can I insure my Segway HT?
There are a number of options available should you wish to insure your Segway HT. Segway recommends you contact your insurance company or local agent to find out the type of coverage they offer.It may be helpful to know that Progressive now provides personal use coverage for Segway HTs in most states (excluding MA, NJ, NC and Washington D.C.). To get more information or buy a policy, call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, contact a local Progressive agent or broker, or visit Progressive's Web site.
Many insurance companies, including Progressive, may ask that you provide your Segway HT serial number in order to obtain insurance coverage. Please wait for delivery of your Segway HT in order to obtain your serial number. (The serial number is located under the mat on the rear edge of the platform.)
Where can I find my Segway HT's serial number?
The serial number is located under the mat on the rear edge of the platform. Segway cannot provide you with your serial number until you have taken delivery of your Segway HT. Therefore, please wait for delivery of your Segway HT in order to obtain your serial number.
Can I charge my Segway HT from my car or boat?
Yes, a Segway HT can be charged while driving in your car or boat by using a suitable DC-to-AC power inverter. Each Segway HT typically consumes approximately 140 Watts of power while charging. However, due to charger startup requirements, we recommend that inverters have power capacity of at least 350 Watts for each Segway HT being charged. Power inverters that produce either square or sinusoid waveform output are suitable for charging the Segway HT. -
Για περισσότερες πληροφορίες http://www.segway.com/
**Πώς λετουργεί **
When Dean Kamen unveiled the Segway Human Transporter (HT) on ABC's Good Morning America, he described the machine as 'the world's first self-balancing human transporter.' When you look at the machine in motion, you get an idea of what he's talking about. Unlike a car, the Segway only has two wheels—it looks something like an ordinary hand truck—yet it manages to stay upright by itself.
To move forward or backward on the Segway HT, the rider just leans slightly forward or backward. To turn left or right, the rider simply turns the steering grip left or right.
This balancing act is the most amazing thing about the Segway, and it is the key to its operation. To understand how this system works, it helps to consider Kamen's model for the device—the human body.
If you stand up and lean forward, so that you are out of balance, you probably won't fall on your face. Your brain knows you are out of balance, because fluid in your inner ear shifts, so it triggers you to put your leg forward and stop the fall. If you keep leaning forward, your brain will keep putting your legs forward to keep you upright. Instead of falling, you walk forward, one step at a time.
The Segway HT does pretty much the same thing, except it has wheels instead of legs, a motor instead of muscles, a collection of microprocessors instead of a brain and a set of sophisticated tilt sensors instead of an inner-ear balancing system. Like your brain, the Segway knows when you are leaning forward. To maintain balance, it turns the wheels at just the right speed, so you move forward.
The Brains and the Brawn
At its most basic, the Segway HT is a combination of a series of sensors, a control system and a motor system. In this section, we'll look at each of these elements.
The primary sensor system is an assembly of gyroscopes. A basic gyroscope is a spinning wheel inside a stable frame. A spinning object resists changes to its axis of rotation, because an applied force moves along with the object itself. If you push on a point at the top of a spinning wheel, for example, that point moves around to the front of the wheel while it is still feeling the force you applied. As the point of force keeps moving, it ends up applying force on opposite ends of the wheel—the force balances itself out.
Because of its resistance to outside force, a gyroscope wheel will maintain its position in space (relative to the ground), even if you tilt it. But the gyroscope's frame will move freely in space. By measuring the position of the gyroscope's spinning wheel relative to the frame, a precise sensor can tell the pitch of an object (how much it is tilting away from an upright position) as well as its pitch rate (how quickly it is tilting).
A conventional gyroscope would be cumbersome and difficult to maintain in this sort of vehicle, so the Segway HT gets the same effect with a different sort of mechanism. Segway HTs use a special solid-state angular rate sensor constructed using silicon. This sort of gyroscope determines an object's rotation using the Coriolis effect on a very small scale.
Simply put, the Coriolis effect is the apparent turning of an object moving in relation to another rotating object. For example, an airplane traveling in a straight line appears to turn because the Earth is rotating underneath it.
A typical solid-state silicon gyroscope consists of a tiny silicon plate mounted on a support frame. The silicon particles are moved by an electrostatic current applied across the plate. The particles move in a particular way, which causes the plate to vibrate in a predictable manner. But when the plate is rotated around its axis (that is, when the Segway HT rotates in that particular plane), the particles suddenly shift in relation to the plate. This alters the vibration, and the change is in proportion to the degree of rotation. The gyroscope system measures the change in vibration, and passes this information on to the computer. In this way, the computer can figure out when the Segway HT is rotating along particular axes.
The Segway HT has five gyroscopic sensors, though it only needs three to detect forward and backward pitch as well as leaning to the left or right (termed 'roll'). The extra sensors add redundancy, to make the vehicle more reliable. All of the tilt information, as well as information from additional tilt sensors, is passed on to the brain of the vehicle. The brain is made up of two electronic controller circuit boards, comprising a cluster of microprocessors. The Segway HT has multiple onboard microprocessors, which boast, in total, about three times the power of a typical PC. The vehicle requires this much brain power because it needs to make extremely precise adjustments to keep from falling over. If one board breaks down, the other will take over all functions so that the system can notify the rider of a failure and shut down gracefully.
The microprocessors run an advanced piece of software that controls the vehicle. This program monitors all of the stability information coming from the gyroscopic sensors and adjusts the speed of several electric motors in response to this information. The electric motors, which are powered by a pair of rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, can turn each of the wheels independently at variable speeds.
When the vehicle leans forward, the motors spin both wheels forward to keep from tilting over. When the vehicle leans backward, the motors spin both wheels backward. When the rider operates the steering grip to turn left or right, the motors spin one wheel faster than the other, or spin the wheels in opposite directions, so that the vehicle rotates.
Συχνές ερωτήσειςWhat is the Segway Human Transporter (HT)?
The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is the first self-balancing, electric-powered transportation device. With dimensions no larger than the average adult body and the ability to emulate human balance, the Segway HT uses the same space as a pedestrian, and can go wherever a person can walk. The Segway HT allows people at home and at work to go farther, move more quickly, and increase the amount they can carry anywhere they currently walk.How does the Segway HT work?
Our team developed a breakthrough technology we termed 'dynamic stabilization,' which is the essence of the Segway HT. Dynamic stabilization enables the Segway HT to work seamlessly with the body's movements. Gyroscopes and tilt sensors in the unit monitor a rider's center of gravity at about 100 times a second. When the rider leans slightly forward, the Segway HT moves forward. When the rider leans slightly back, the Segway HT moves backward. For more about how the Segway HT functions, please see How It Works.Does the Segway HT work indoors?
Yes. Every Segway HT is designed to work anywhere people walk. In order to support indoor operation, Michelin created a special tire that is non-marring. The Segway HT is narrower than a standard doorway and is clean and quiet. There are zero emissions.Can I use the Segway HT in varying environments with different climates and terrains?
Yes. Like a person walking, all that a Segway Human Transporter requires is traction to operate in any environment. The device is completely sealed to allow it to operate in wet weather. Our standard tires were optimized for a range of terrain and environmental conditions. We also offer enhanced traction tires for better performance on a wide variety of surfaces.What will the Segway HT allow people to do?
Simply put, the Segway HT allows you to travel farther, move quicker and carry more anywhere you can walk. The Segway HT is used in a multitude of consumer and commercial settings. For personal use, the Segway HT can be used to commute to work, run errands, visit family and friends, explore your community, and have lots of fun doing everyday things. For commercial settings, the Segway HT is ideally suited for large scale manufacturing plants and warehousing operations, travel and tourism, public safety, corporate and campus transportation, as well as mail, package and product delivery.Segway HTs are in some of the world's leading corporations and service organizations including the U.S. Postal Service, National Park Service, the City of Atlanta's Ambassador program, Michelin, GE Plastics, and Delphi Automotive Systems.
How will the Segway HT transform the way people live?
The benefits of widespread usage of the Segway HT are far-reaching, including the creation of more livable communities. We believe that, in time, the Segway HT will lead to a reconfiguration of the way communities are built by significantly extending people's walking zones, thereby enabling better use of space and the transportation infrastructure. The Segway HT will enable people to make better use of their time, interact within their community and contribute to eliminating traffic congestion and pollution.How fast can the Segway HT travel?
Every Segway HT has three different keys that riders may choose from depending on riding environment and level of experience. The Beginner Key (maximum speed of 6 mph and slowest turning rate), allows riders to gain confidence using the machine. The Sidewalk Key (maximum speed of 8 mph and a medium turning rate), allows riders to adapt well in pedestrian environments. The Open Environment Key (maximum speed of 12.5 mph and the most responsive turning rate), allows riders to comfortably cover open spaces. Riders are responsible for riding their Segway HT at appropriate speeds.How long will a Segway HT last?
The Segway HT has been designed to be extremely durable. In order to deliver a durable productivity tool, we pursued two design avenues. First, we built durable mechanical and electrical systems to be in solid state, so even the moving parts were designed for longevity. For example, the motors are brushless servomotors, so there are no parts that could wear out. We then submitted the systems to extensive, rigorous testing to ensure we met our goals. Second, we created a modular design whereby if any part were to wear out or break, it could easily be replaced, ensuring a long product life.Where can I purchase a Segway HT?
The Segway HT i series is available to the general public through Amazon.com. If you are a consumer who is commuting to work, running errands, or shopping at the local mall, the i Series is for you.In certain locations in Florida, Segway HT i Series is available for purchase locally:
J.M. Lexus
5350 West Sample Rd.
Margate, FL 33073
Phone: 800-80-LEXUS NEVrland
741 Front Street, #140
Celebration, FL 34747
Phone: 407-566-0911Businesses can purchase the Segway HT i and e Series models directly from Segway. Each model offers specific attributes that help companies save time, bring more distant locations within reach, and enhance carrying capacity. To order your Segway HT for business use only, please call us toll-free at 1-866-4SEGWAY.
Where did the 'Segway' name originate?
Our inspiration came from the word segue, which is defined as, 'to transition smoothly from one state to another.' A Segway Human Transporter (HT) transforms a person into an empowered pedestrian, allowing him/her to go farther, move more quickly and carry more than could ever be achievable walking.What is the background of Segway?
Segway LLC, based in Manchester, N.H., was founded by inventor and entrepreneur, Dean Kamen, to transform the way people work and live. The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is the result of years of research and development led by Kamen with the goal of building something that would make a unique and lasting contribution to society. Segway LLC received funding from Credit Suisse First Boston Private Equity, Kleiner Perkins Caulfield & Byers and a number of individual investors.You can learn more about the Company here.
What other companies were involved in the development of the Segway HT?
Segway brought together a vital group of industry leading suppliers.Delphi Automotive Systems assisted in the development
of the Segway HT's integrated circuit boards and user interface
components, which are key electronic system elements used
to control the human transporter.GE Plastics provided us with a host of durable
and environmentally friendly materials for our human transporter.
Segway HT is the first commercial application for GE's SOLLX
polymer, a weather resistant film that offers an alternative
to paint.Michelin worked with us to develop tires that had
the proper compound, tread, rolling resistance, and construction
to work with this new form of personal transportation.Pacific Scientific, a Danaher Motion company, specially
designed Segway HT's compact, brushless, electric servo
motor.Saft helped us develop smart-charging, self-contained
NiCd and NiMH batteries.Silicon Sensing Systems, a partnership between BAE and Sumitomo, collaborated with Segway to develop
and perfect our gyroscopes and tilt sensor systems.To view our other development partners, click here.
Where is the Segway HT manufactured?
Segway HTs are assembled eight miles from our corporate headquarters in our Manufacturing and Training facility in Bedford, NH.Where can I get my Segway HT serviced?
Depending upon your need, Segway or an authorized Segway Service Provider can provide service. For troubleshooting or help in diagnosing a problem with your Segway HT, please call us toll-free at 1-866-4SEGWAY.How do I become a distributor or reseller partner of Segway HTs?
We have received several inquiries relating to dealerships and reselling opportunities. We truly appreciate the excitement and interest. We are currently assessing various distribution options and will continue to review applications we receive. If you are interested in becoming a distributor or reseller, please fill out our business registration form.How does the Segway HT safely integrate into pedestrian environments?
Just as pedestrians adjust their walking and jogging tempo to match that of those around them, Segway riders adjust the Segway HT for pedestrian environments. The machine was designed to respond to rider's movements - lean forward, go forward; lean back, go back - so that it could easily become an extension of one's own body. Thousands of hours of sidewalk and other pedestrian environment use by police, emergency medical technicians and postal workers is testimony to the safety and utility of the Segway HT.How safe is the Segway HT?
A great deal of testing and research has gone into ensuring that the Segway HT is safe and fun to ride. The Segway HT has redundant systems and sophisticated alerts built into its design, among other safety features. Many thousands of hours of use have demonstrated the Segway HT is safe when used appopriately. It is important that Segway riders understand the responsibility to ride safely. Proper skill level and understanding of the Segway HT prevents injuries caused by loss of control or misuse. Keep in mind that the Segway HT has not been designed, tested or approved as a medical device.Who can ride the Segway HT?
The Segway HT is designed to be operated by a wide range of people after receiving Segway orientation -- no special skills are required. The rider must be able to step on and off the Segway HT without assistance, which requires physical abilities similar to climbing and descending stairs without assistance. The rider's weight must be between 100 and 250 pounds and the rider must be able to operate the steering control with his or her left hand. Segway recommends that riders be 16 years or older. It is important to note that the Segway HT has not been designed, tested, or approved as a medical device.Where can I safely and legally ride the Segway HT?
The Segway HT will transport you over any surface on which the wheels can gain traction, such as pavement, sidewalks, grass, and dirt. Remember, you must step off the Segway HT and use the power assist mode to go up and down stairs (and elsewhere where riding would not be safe or appropriate). In many cities you'll be able to take the Segway HT any place you are allowed to walk. Some areas, however, have restrictions on where you can take the Segway HT and some areas require that you wear protective gear. Please consult our regulatory page for a list of state laws.What does the red button do?
The red button is referred to as the mode button and allows a user to change the mode of the Segway HT, from balance to power-assist mode (more information about the modes is available). When held for more than two (2) seconds, it also powers down the Segway HT. The mode button only works when a rider is not standing on the Segway HT.How does a Federal Government Agency place an order for Segway HTs?
Segway now has a GSA contract (Contract # GS-07F-0182N Sch. 539). Please visit the GSA Advantage Web site for more details.How can I insure my Segway HT?
There are a number of options available should you wish to insure your Segway HT. Segway recommends you contact your insurance company or local agent to find out the type of coverage they offer.It may be helpful to know that Progressive now provides personal use coverage for Segway HTs in most states (excluding MA, NJ, NC and Washington D.C.). To get more information or buy a policy, call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, contact a local Progressive agent or broker, or visit Progressive's Web site.
Many insurance companies, including Progressive, may ask that you provide your Segway HT serial number in order to obtain insurance coverage. Please wait for delivery of your Segway HT in order to obtain your serial number. (The serial number is located under the mat on the rear edge of the platform.)
Where can I find my Segway HT's serial number?
The serial number is located under the mat on the rear edge of the platform. Segway cannot provide you with your serial number until you have taken delivery of your Segway HT. Therefore, please wait for delivery of your Segway HT in order to obtain your serial number.
Can I charge my Segway HT from my car or boat?
Yes, a Segway HT can be charged while driving in your car or boat by using a suitable DC-to-AC power inverter. Each Segway HT typically consumes approximately 140 Watts of power while charging. However, due to charger startup requirements, we recommend that inverters have power capacity of at least 350 Watts for each Segway HT being charged. Power inverters that produce either square or sinusoid waveform output are suitable for charging the Segway HT. -
Για περισσότερες πληροφορίες http://www.segway.com/
**Πώς λετουργεί **
When Dean Kamen unveiled the Segway Human Transporter (HT) on ABC's Good Morning America, he described the machine as 'the world's first self-balancing human transporter.' When you look at the machine in motion, you get an idea of what he's talking about. Unlike a car, the Segway only has two wheels—it looks something like an ordinary hand truck—yet it manages to stay upright by itself.
To move forward or backward on the Segway HT, the rider just leans slightly forward or backward. To turn left or right, the rider simply turns the steering grip left or right.
This balancing act is the most amazing thing about the Segway, and it is the key to its operation. To understand how this system works, it helps to consider Kamen's model for the device—the human body.
If you stand up and lean forward, so that you are out of balance, you probably won't fall on your face. Your brain knows you are out of balance, because fluid in your inner ear shifts, so it triggers you to put your leg forward and stop the fall. If you keep leaning forward, your brain will keep putting your legs forward to keep you upright. Instead of falling, you walk forward, one step at a time.
The Segway HT does pretty much the same thing, except it has wheels instead of legs, a motor instead of muscles, a collection of microprocessors instead of a brain and a set of sophisticated tilt sensors instead of an inner-ear balancing system. Like your brain, the Segway knows when you are leaning forward. To maintain balance, it turns the wheels at just the right speed, so you move forward.
The Brains and the Brawn
At its most basic, the Segway HT is a combination of a series of sensors, a control system and a motor system. In this section, we'll look at each of these elements.
The primary sensor system is an assembly of gyroscopes. A basic gyroscope is a spinning wheel inside a stable frame. A spinning object resists changes to its axis of rotation, because an applied force moves along with the object itself. If you push on a point at the top of a spinning wheel, for example, that point moves around to the front of the wheel while it is still feeling the force you applied. As the point of force keeps moving, it ends up applying force on opposite ends of the wheel—the force balances itself out.
Because of its resistance to outside force, a gyroscope wheel will maintain its position in space (relative to the ground), even if you tilt it. But the gyroscope's frame will move freely in space. By measuring the position of the gyroscope's spinning wheel relative to the frame, a precise sensor can tell the pitch of an object (how much it is tilting away from an upright position) as well as its pitch rate (how quickly it is tilting).
A conventional gyroscope would be cumbersome and difficult to maintain in this sort of vehicle, so the Segway HT gets the same effect with a different sort of mechanism. Segway HTs use a special solid-state angular rate sensor constructed using silicon. This sort of gyroscope determines an object's rotation using the Coriolis effect on a very small scale.
Simply put, the Coriolis effect is the apparent turning of an object moving in relation to another rotating object. For example, an airplane traveling in a straight line appears to turn because the Earth is rotating underneath it.
A typical solid-state silicon gyroscope consists of a tiny silicon plate mounted on a support frame. The silicon particles are moved by an electrostatic current applied across the plate. The particles move in a particular way, which causes the plate to vibrate in a predictable manner. But when the plate is rotated around its axis (that is, when the Segway HT rotates in that particular plane), the particles suddenly shift in relation to the plate. This alters the vibration, and the change is in proportion to the degree of rotation. The gyroscope system measures the change in vibration, and passes this information on to the computer. In this way, the computer can figure out when the Segway HT is rotating along particular axes.
The Segway HT has five gyroscopic sensors, though it only needs three to detect forward and backward pitch as well as leaning to the left or right (termed 'roll'). The extra sensors add redundancy, to make the vehicle more reliable. All of the tilt information, as well as information from additional tilt sensors, is passed on to the brain of the vehicle. The brain is made up of two electronic controller circuit boards, comprising a cluster of microprocessors. The Segway HT has multiple onboard microprocessors, which boast, in total, about three times the power of a typical PC. The vehicle requires this much brain power because it needs to make extremely precise adjustments to keep from falling over. If one board breaks down, the other will take over all functions so that the system can notify the rider of a failure and shut down gracefully.
The microprocessors run an advanced piece of software that controls the vehicle. This program monitors all of the stability information coming from the gyroscopic sensors and adjusts the speed of several electric motors in response to this information. The electric motors, which are powered by a pair of rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, can turn each of the wheels independently at variable speeds.
When the vehicle leans forward, the motors spin both wheels forward to keep from tilting over. When the vehicle leans backward, the motors spin both wheels backward. When the rider operates the steering grip to turn left or right, the motors spin one wheel faster than the other, or spin the wheels in opposite directions, so that the vehicle rotates.
Συχνές ερωτήσειςWhat is the Segway Human Transporter (HT)?
The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is the first self-balancing, electric-powered transportation device. With dimensions no larger than the average adult body and the ability to emulate human balance, the Segway HT uses the same space as a pedestrian, and can go wherever a person can walk. The Segway HT allows people at home and at work to go farther, move more quickly, and increase the amount they can carry anywhere they currently walk.How does the Segway HT work?
Our team developed a breakthrough technology we termed 'dynamic stabilization,' which is the essence of the Segway HT. Dynamic stabilization enables the Segway HT to work seamlessly with the body's movements. Gyroscopes and tilt sensors in the unit monitor a rider's center of gravity at about 100 times a second. When the rider leans slightly forward, the Segway HT moves forward. When the rider leans slightly back, the Segway HT moves backward. For more about how the Segway HT functions, please see How It Works.Does the Segway HT work indoors?
Yes. Every Segway HT is designed to work anywhere people walk. In order to support indoor operation, Michelin created a special tire that is non-marring. The Segway HT is narrower than a standard doorway and is clean and quiet. There are zero emissions.Can I use the Segway HT in varying environments with different climates and terrains?
Yes. Like a person walking, all that a Segway Human Transporter requires is traction to operate in any environment. The device is completely sealed to allow it to operate in wet weather. Our standard tires were optimized for a range of terrain and environmental conditions. We also offer enhanced traction tires for better performance on a wide variety of surfaces.What will the Segway HT allow people to do?
Simply put, the Segway HT allows you to travel farther, move quicker and carry more anywhere you can walk. The Segway HT is used in a multitude of consumer and commercial settings. For personal use, the Segway HT can be used to commute to work, run errands, visit family and friends, explore your community, and have lots of fun doing everyday things. For commercial settings, the Segway HT is ideally suited for large scale manufacturing plants and warehousing operations, travel and tourism, public safety, corporate and campus transportation, as well as mail, package and product delivery.Segway HTs are in some of the world's leading corporations and service organizations including the U.S. Postal Service, National Park Service, the City of Atlanta's Ambassador program, Michelin, GE Plastics, and Delphi Automotive Systems.
How will the Segway HT transform the way people live?
The benefits of widespread usage of the Segway HT are far-reaching, including the creation of more livable communities. We believe that, in time, the Segway HT will lead to a reconfiguration of the way communities are built by significantly extending people's walking zones, thereby enabling better use of space and the transportation infrastructure. The Segway HT will enable people to make better use of their time, interact within their community and contribute to eliminating traffic congestion and pollution.How fast can the Segway HT travel?
Every Segway HT has three different keys that riders may choose from depending on riding environment and level of experience. The Beginner Key (maximum speed of 6 mph and slowest turning rate), allows riders to gain confidence using the machine. The Sidewalk Key (maximum speed of 8 mph and a medium turning rate), allows riders to adapt well in pedestrian environments. The Open Environment Key (maximum speed of 12.5 mph and the most responsive turning rate), allows riders to comfortably cover open spaces. Riders are responsible for riding their Segway HT at appropriate speeds.How long will a Segway HT last?
The Segway HT has been designed to be extremely durable. In order to deliver a durable productivity tool, we pursued two design avenues. First, we built durable mechanical and electrical systems to be in solid state, so even the moving parts were designed for longevity. For example, the motors are brushless servomotors, so there are no parts that could wear out. We then submitted the systems to extensive, rigorous testing to ensure we met our goals. Second, we created a modular design whereby if any part were to wear out or break, it could easily be replaced, ensuring a long product life.Where can I purchase a Segway HT?
The Segway HT i series is available to the general public through Amazon.com. If you are a consumer who is commuting to work, running errands, or shopping at the local mall, the i Series is for you.In certain locations in Florida, Segway HT i Series is available for purchase locally:
J.M. Lexus
5350 West Sample Rd.
Margate, FL 33073
Phone: 800-80-LEXUS NEVrland
741 Front Street, #140
Celebration, FL 34747
Phone: 407-566-0911Businesses can purchase the Segway HT i and e Series models directly from Segway. Each model offers specific attributes that help companies save time, bring more distant locations within reach, and enhance carrying capacity. To order your Segway HT for business use only, please call us toll-free at 1-866-4SEGWAY.
Where did the 'Segway' name originate?
Our inspiration came from the word segue, which is defined as, 'to transition smoothly from one state to another.' A Segway Human Transporter (HT) transforms a person into an empowered pedestrian, allowing him/her to go farther, move more quickly and carry more than could ever be achievable walking.What is the background of Segway?
Segway LLC, based in Manchester, N.H., was founded by inventor and entrepreneur, Dean Kamen, to transform the way people work and live. The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is the result of years of research and development led by Kamen with the goal of building something that would make a unique and lasting contribution to society. Segway LLC received funding from Credit Suisse First Boston Private Equity, Kleiner Perkins Caulfield & Byers and a number of individual investors.You can learn more about the Company here.
What other companies were involved in the development of the Segway HT?
Segway brought together a vital group of industry leading suppliers.Delphi Automotive Systems assisted in the development
of the Segway HT's integrated circuit boards and user interface
components, which are key electronic system elements used
to control the human transporter.GE Plastics provided us with a host of durable
and environmentally friendly materials for our human transporter.
Segway HT is the first commercial application for GE's SOLLX
polymer, a weather resistant film that offers an alternative
to paint.Michelin worked with us to develop tires that had
the proper compound, tread, rolling resistance, and construction
to work with this new form of personal transportation.Pacific Scientific, a Danaher Motion company, specially
designed Segway HT's compact, brushless, electric servo
motor.Saft helped us develop smart-charging, self-contained
NiCd and NiMH batteries.Silicon Sensing Systems, a partnership between BAE and Sumitomo, collaborated with Segway to develop
and perfect our gyroscopes and tilt sensor systems.To view our other development partners, click here.
Where is the Segway HT manufactured?
Segway HTs are assembled eight miles from our corporate headquarters in our Manufacturing and Training facility in Bedford, NH.Where can I get my Segway HT serviced?
Depending upon your need, Segway or an authorized Segway Service Provider can provide service. For troubleshooting or help in diagnosing a problem with your Segway HT, please call us toll-free at 1-866-4SEGWAY.How do I become a distributor or reseller partner of Segway HTs?
We have received several inquiries relating to dealerships and reselling opportunities. We truly appreciate the excitement and interest. We are currently assessing various distribution options and will continue to review applications we receive. If you are interested in becoming a distributor or reseller, please fill out our business registration form.How does the Segway HT safely integrate into pedestrian environments?
Just as pedestrians adjust their walking and jogging tempo to match that of those around them, Segway riders adjust the Segway HT for pedestrian environments. The machine was designed to respond to rider's movements - lean forward, go forward; lean back, go back - so that it could easily become an extension of one's own body. Thousands of hours of sidewalk and other pedestrian environment use by police, emergency medical technicians and postal workers is testimony to the safety and utility of the Segway HT.How safe is the Segway HT?
A great deal of testing and research has gone into ensuring that the Segway HT is safe and fun to ride. The Segway HT has redundant systems and sophisticated alerts built into its design, among other safety features. Many thousands of hours of use have demonstrated the Segway HT is safe when used appopriately. It is important that Segway riders understand the responsibility to ride safely. Proper skill level and understanding of the Segway HT prevents injuries caused by loss of control or misuse. Keep in mind that the Segway HT has not been designed, tested or approved as a medical device.Who can ride the Segway HT?
The Segway HT is designed to be operated by a wide range of people after receiving Segway orientation -- no special skills are required. The rider must be able to step on and off the Segway HT without assistance, which requires physical abilities similar to climbing and descending stairs without assistance. The rider's weight must be between 100 and 250 pounds and the rider must be able to operate the steering control with his or her left hand. Segway recommends that riders be 16 years or older. It is important to note that the Segway HT has not been designed, tested, or approved as a medical device.Where can I safely and legally ride the Segway HT?
The Segway HT will transport you over any surface on which the wheels can gain traction, such as pavement, sidewalks, grass, and dirt. Remember, you must step off the Segway HT and use the power assist mode to go up and down stairs (and elsewhere where riding would not be safe or appropriate). In many cities you'll be able to take the Segway HT any place you are allowed to walk. Some areas, however, have restrictions on where you can take the Segway HT and some areas require that you wear protective gear. Please consult our regulatory page for a list of state laws.What does the red button do?
The red button is referred to as the mode button and allows a user to change the mode of the Segway HT, from balance to power-assist mode (more information about the modes is available). When held for more than two (2) seconds, it also powers down the Segway HT. The mode button only works when a rider is not standing on the Segway HT.How does a Federal Government Agency place an order for Segway HTs?
Segway now has a GSA contract (Contract # GS-07F-0182N Sch. 539). Please visit the GSA Advantage Web site for more details.How can I insure my Segway HT?
There are a number of options available should you wish to insure your Segway HT. Segway recommends you contact your insurance company or local agent to find out the type of coverage they offer.It may be helpful to know that Progressive now provides personal use coverage for Segway HTs in most states (excluding MA, NJ, NC and Washington D.C.). To get more information or buy a policy, call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, contact a local Progressive agent or broker, or visit Progressive's Web site.
Many insurance companies, including Progressive, may ask that you provide your Segway HT serial number in order to obtain insurance coverage. Please wait for delivery of your Segway HT in order to obtain your serial number. (The serial number is located under the mat on the rear edge of the platform.)
Where can I find my Segway HT's serial number?
The serial number is located under the mat on the rear edge of the platform. Segway cannot provide you with your serial number until you have taken delivery of your Segway HT. Therefore, please wait for delivery of your Segway HT in order to obtain your serial number.
Can I charge my Segway HT from my car or boat?
Yes, a Segway HT can be charged while driving in your car or boat by using a suitable DC-to-AC power inverter. Each Segway HT typically consumes approximately 140 Watts of power while charging. However, due to charger startup requirements, we recommend that inverters have power capacity of at least 350 Watts for each Segway HT being charged. Power inverters that produce either square or sinusoid waveform output are suitable for charging the Segway HT. -
το περίφημο ginger....
μετά από 6 χρόνια φήμες, 3 χρόνια δοκιμές, αποφάσισαν να του βάλουν τιμόνι;; προ έτους που είχα δει το και καλά 'σχεδόν τελειωμένο' μοντέλο σε ρεπορτάζ του CNN, ήταν εμφανώς μεγαλύτερο και χωρίς τιμόνι. Πάντως πολύ μου αρέσει σαν σύλληψη αυτό το σκουτεράκι [το προτιμώ χωρίς τιμόνι], αλλά το target group είναι κυρίως καχεκτικοί/χοντροί και λιγότερο φυσιολογικοί ιδιώτες ή χώροι εργασίας όπως αεροδρόμια, εργοστάσια, κτλ. Επίσης στα 38 κιλά με 2 ίππους, είναι βαρύ. Ελπίζω πάντως στις εκδοχές του για άτομα με κινητικές δυσκολίες.
Α, και για να τελειώνουμε με αυτό το κεφάλαιο internet-ικού μύθου [το τι έχει γραφτεί κατά καιρούς γι' αυτή, την τελικά, μπούρδα], 1 πράγμα:
hype people, hype. -
Για αεροδρόμια,νοσοκομεία,εργοστάσια αλλά και εταιρείες courier (οχι στην Ελλάδα!!) θεωρήθηκε σαν Η λύση!!
Τελικά χάθηκε,αν και λειτούργησε!!
Γιατι?
Ποιά βιομηχανία δεν το ήθελε? -
Tο έχω οδηγήσει πριν από 2 χρόνια, σε σαλόνι του Παρισιού. Eίχε πλάκα, ομολογουμένως, το πώς ξεκινά, στρίβει και σταματά, καθώς και το ότι δεν πέφτεις με τίποτα (εκτός κι αν είσαι 1,95 και 150 κιλά...). Άλλο η πλάκα, άλλο η χρηστικότητα όμως και η αξία προς τιμή ενός πατινιού που κοστίζει 5000 δολάρια αν δεν απατώμαι και ταιριάζει μόνο σε εσωτερικούς χώρους (αεροδρόμια, εργοστάσια κτλ.). Aν μπορούσε κάποιος να κατασκευάσει κάτι αντίστοιχο με 2000 δολάρια και με λάστιχα που να αντέχουν τους ελληνικούς δρόμους, NAI!
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Ο χρήστης temper έγραψε:
Eίχε πλάκα, ομολογουμένως, το πώς ξεκινά, στρίβει και σταματά, καθώς και το ότι δεν πέφτεις με τίποτα (εκτός κι αν είσαι 1,95 και 150 κιλά...).Εκτός και αν είσαι ο G.W.Bush http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/technology/maney/2003-06-17-segway_x.htm
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Σωστός! Εδώ ο Μπους πέφτει ακόμη κι όταν ξαπλώνει στο κρεβάτι του. Να δούμε πότε θα 'πέσει' και από την κυβέρνηση του... πλανήτη.
(Κοντά είναι ο Οκτώβριος, ας όψεται ο Mr. - μαγιονέζας - Kerry...
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Δεν εξαφανίστηκε. Είχα δει ένα site (κρίμα που δεν το θυμάμαι) όπου ανέλυε τη στρατιωτική του εφαρμογή.
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Κάποιος έφτιαξε το δικό του Segway με ελάχιστα χρήματα.
SEGWAY HT το ασφαλές σκουτεράκι