 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
What 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?
Segway LLC has 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 does the Segway HT allow people to do?
Simply put, the Segway HT allows you to travel farther, move quicker and carry more.
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.
Is the Segway HT for me?
We recommend that each potential owner consider some basic operator abilities
before they purchase a Segway HT. Segway recommends that riders be 16 years old
or older, weigh no more than 250 pounds (for the i Series, no more than 200 pounds
for the p Series) and no less than 100 pounds. Each rider must be able to step up and
down an 8-inch platform without assistance of a handrail or another person. They
must also have full use of their left hand.
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 Bedford NH, 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.
What other companies were involved in the development of the Segway HT?
Segway brought together a vital group of industry leading suppliers. You may find a
list of Segway's development partners helpful.
How safe is the Segway HT?
The utmost care and research has gone into ensuring that the Segway HT is safe. The
Segway HT's balancing technology is truly revolutionary and provides an exceptional
riding experience. The Segway HT has redundant systems and sophisticated alerts
built into its design, and many thousands of hours of use have demonstrated that the
Segway HT is safe when used appropriately. It is important that Segway HT riders
understand their 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
orientation—no special skills are required. The rider must be able to do the following:
Step on and off the Segway HT without assistance, which requires physical abilities
similar to climbing and descending stairs without assistance or use of a handrail
Rider must weigh between 100 and 250 pounds (for the i Series) or 100 and 200
pounds (for the p Series)
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 is designed to operate in any place that you can safely walk. It will
transport you over any surface where the wheels can gain traction, such as roads,
sidewalks, grass, and dirt. In many cities you'll be able to take the Segway HT any
place that 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. You should also check with
local authorities regarding any local regulations that may be applicable.
What does the red/blue button do?
The red/blue 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 seconds, it also powers
down the Segway HT. The mode button only works when a rider is not standing on
the Segway HT. It has no other functions. The color of the button was changed in
early 2004 from red to blue.