Posted 08.11.2009 at 3:40 pm
10 Comments
Orbis Urban Mobility Vehicle
As much as there is to like about the Segway, it’s not the most practical option out there – it’s bulky and expensive. The Orbis Urban Mobility Vehicle, on the other hand, could do a lot to make scooting a smidge more plausible. The Orbis’ polycarboate-and-aluminum body weighs 25 pounds to the Segway’s 105. The scooter rides around 13mph on its one wheel.
Worried about balancing? Don’t be. The Orbis uses gyroscopes to keep itself upright. Its balancing system and motor are lithium-ion-powered.
Orbis Urban Mobility Vehicle (folded):
When not in use, the handlebar folds down around the wheel for compact storage and easy toting.
[via DVICE]
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The compact form looks like a circular saw...
Has one ever been built? All though you could make big A$$ gyros to stabilize it looking at the picture and mass I'm certain it dose not do this and the gyros are only attitude sensors to create forward and back stabilization via motor control. If you were not moving at quite a clip you would fall over sideways. And that is why this cant fill the role segway and is less practical in most situations.
Seems to be an improvement, but still doesn't address a couple of issues
- How much can you carry? People have the annoying habit of carrying laptops, briefcases, pizzas, etc. The Segway MIGHT win out in thie category, but maybe not by much.
Inclement weather. New York is a natural target for these types of devices. However, they have been known to have snow, freezing drizzle, and even ordinary thumderstorms. If you walked there, you could take a cab back. Now you have to shlepp your scooter with you as well.
The computer-generated pictures are nice, but what does a real one look like? How much does it cost? Road test please.
I would also like to know the cost. Even thought the Segway never achieved its potential, It did spur innovation in this area and a product like this could really do well.
When folded, it looks like it's going to unfurl a giant machanical claw and rip out your spleen.
I personally would never have a use for something like this. I like walking and it's good for me.
Is it safe?
mmmmmm, spleen.
Is it safe? "Yes it's safe."
Is it safe? "No, no it's not safe."
Ah, Dustin.
I am a fan. Having looked at other photos on the web,I can see that it would be extremely popular in the inner city. You could carry your laptop and backpack just as you can with your other Mobility Scooters and bikes. I love the color schemes too. Funky and fun!
Jazzy
www.valuemobility.co.uk