The Segway PT (originally Segway HT) is a two-wheeled, self-balancing scooter by Segway Inc. Invented by Dean Kamen and launched in 2001, PT is an abbreviation for personal transporter (the old suffix HT was an initialism for human transporter).
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History
Independent company
The Segway PT was known by the names Ginger and IT before it was unveiled. Ginger came out of the first product that used Kamen's balancing technology, the iBOT wheelchair. During development at the University of Plymouth, in conjunction with BAE Systems and Sumitomo Precision Products, the iBot was nicknamed Fred Upstairs (after Fred Astaire) because it can climb stairs: hence the name Ginger, after Astaire's regular film partner, Ginger Rogers, for a successor product.
The invention, development, and financing of the Segway was the subject of a narrative nonfiction book, Code Name Ginger (in paperback as Reinventing the Wheel), by journalist Steve Kemper. The leak of information from that book led to speculation about the "IT" device prior to release. The speculation created an unexpected advance buzz about the product that was, at times, hyperbolic. Steve Jobs was quoted as saying that it was "as big a deal as the PC", though later sources quoted him as saying when first introduced to the product that its design "sucked". John Doerr speculated that it would be more important than the Internet. Articles were written in major publications speculating on it being a Stirling engine. South Park devoted an episode to making fun of the hype before the product was released.
Segway's first patent was filed in 1994 and granted in 1997 followed by others including one submitted in June 1999 and granted in October 2001. The launch New York City in December 2001 was reported by Good Morning America Sales started in 2002.
The Segway was unveiled December 3, 2001, following months of public speculation, in Bryant Park, New York City, on the ABC News morning program Good Morning America with the first units delivered to customers in early 2002. The original Segway models were activated for three different speed settings beginner, (6 miles per hour (9.7 km/h) and slower turning), intermediate (8 mph (13 km/h); higher turning rate) and advanced (10 mph (16 km/h). Steering of early versions was controlled using a twist grip that varied the speeds of the two motors. The range of the p-Series was 6-10 mi (9.7-16.1 km) on a fully charged nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery with a recharge time of 4-6 hours.
In September 2003, the Segway PT was recalled, because if users ignored repeated low battery warnings on the PTs, it could ultimately lead them to fall. With a software patch to version 12.0, the PT would automatically slow down and stop in response to detecting low battery power.
In August 2006 Segway discontinued all previous models and introduced the i2 and x2 products which were steered by leaning the handlebars to the right or left, had a maximum speed of 12.5 mph (20.1 km/h) from a pair of 2 horsepower (1.5 kW) Brushless DC electric motor with regenerative braking and a range of up to 15-25 mi (24-40 km), depending on terrain, riding style and state of the batteries. Recharging took 8-10 hours. The i2 and x2 also introduced the wireless InfoKey which could show mileage and a trip odometer, as well as put the Segway into Security mode, which locked the wheels and set off an alarm if it was moved, and could also be used to turn on the PT from up to 15 feet (4.6 m) away.
Versions of the product prior to 2011 included (in order of release):
- Segway i167:
- Segway e167: As i167, with addition of electric kickstand
- Segway p133: Smaller platform and wheels and less powerful motors than the i and e Series with top speed was 10 miles per hour (16 km/h) in the p-Series.
- Segway i180: With lithium-ion batteries.
- Segway XT: The first Segway HT designed specifically for recreation.
- Segway i2 (2006): The first on-road Segway PT with LeanSteer.
- Segway x2 (2006): The first off-road Segway PT with LeanSteer.
In March 2014, Segway announced third generation designs, including the i2 SE and x2 SE sport new LeanSteer frame and powerbase designs, with integrated lighting.
Subsidiary of Ninebot
Ninebot Inc., a Beijing-based transportation robotics startup acquired Segway in April 2015 having raised $80M From Xiaomi And Sequoia Capital.
In June 2016 the company launched the Segway miniPRO, a smaller self-balancing scooter.
San Francisco Segway Electric Bike Tours San Francisco Ca Video
Products
As of July 2017 the following self-balancing scooters are available from Segway (For other Segway products see Segway Inc.):
- Segway i2 SE (professional self-balancing scooter for use in warehouses and other locations)
- Segway x2 SE (ruggedised self-balancing scooter for use on most challenging terrain)
- Segway Robot (autonomous robot based on the Segway miniPro)
- Ninebot by Segway E+ (self-balancing scooter for general use)
- Ninebot by Segway miniPro (smaller self-balancing scooter for general use, controlled by a 'knee control bar')
Technology
The dynamics of the Segway PT are similar to a classic control problem, the inverted pendulum. It uses brushless DC electric motors in each wheel powered by lithium-ion batteries with balance achieved using tilt sensors, and gyroscopic sensors developed by BAE Systems' Advanced Technology Centre. The wheels are driven forward or backward as needed to return its pitch to upright.
Uses
In 2011 the Segway i2 was being marketed to the emergency medical services community. The special police forces trained to protect the public during the 2008 Summer Olympics used the Segway for mobility.
The Segway miniPro is also available to be used as the mobility section of a robot.
Disability Rights Advocates for Technology, promoted the use of for Segway PT on sidewalk as an Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) issue. Segway Inc. cannot however market these devices in the US as medical devices (as per agreement with Johnson & Johnson with regard to the iBOT, a self-balancing wheelchair) and they have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a medical device.
The maximum speed of the Segway PT is 12.5 miles per hour (20.1 km/h). The product is capable of covering 24 mi (39 km) on a fully charged lithium-ion battery, depending on terrain, riding style, and the condition of the batteries. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute recommends that all riders wear helmets when using Segways. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission does not have Segway-specific recommendations but does say that bicycle helmets are adequate for "low-speed, motor-assisted" scooters.
Regulation of use by country
Asia
Police have begun using Segways to patrol certain public areas, such as Tian'anmen square. Police also use them in Beijing International Airport.
The Segway was introduced in 2010 and has sold around 250 units as of 2014. They are introduced at Ambience complexes in south Delhi and Gurgaon, the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, at many golf courses and to promote tourism at places like Kankaria Lake, Ahmedabad. They are used for recreational purposes at New Town Eco Park in Kolkata. It is also seen in at a shopping mall at Siliguri in Indian state West Bengal to be used by the mall's own security personnel or occasionally by the visitors for recreation purpose only. Their growth is limited due to cost, high customs and a lack of infrastructure.
In 2006, the Segway was approved for use on sidewalks and other pedestrian designated locations, and on roads without sidewalks, with obstructed sidewalks or sidewalks that lack curb cuts. The user must be over 16 years old. No license is required. The maximum allowed speed is 13.5 km/h (8.4 mph), enforced by electronic restriction put in place by the importer. Companies offering tours of Jerusalem use the second generation i2 model. In 2009 the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo was the first in the world to offer Segway guided tours in the zoo.
In a court, Segway was classified as a motorcycle, owing to the power output; however, there is no report of registration. Segway Japan, an authorized dealer, sells Segways only to corporations to use in facilities.
Segways were introduced to Changi Airport, initially for workers who collect baggage carts but are widely utilised by customer service and security employees. Sentosa island has a Segway rental allowing use around the island or in a small circuit.
Europe
A law revision by the Government of Åland concerning "small electrically powered vehicles" means the Segway and all other mainly one person electrical vehicles have been classified as bicycles since March 14, 2012.
The type i2 is (width 63 cm) narrower than 80 cm and slow enough to be legally an (electric) bicycle and therefore has to use cycle-lanes and -paths, otherwise street lanes. The type x2 reaches with its bigger wheels 84 cm width and is therefore an electric vehicle, that needs a license and insurance. Neither type may use sidewalks (lengthwise) or pedestrian zones (unless exemption stated). By 2015 one gets Segways for rent at least in Vienna (in the Prater amusement park and elsewhere), in Graz (since July 2013), Linz and Fiss. At least 2 Segways with one blue flashing light are used by police in Vienna (April 2015).
Use of a Segway is allowed within city limits wherever pedestrian and bicycles are allowed, i.e., sidewalks, bicycle paths, parks, etc. Segways can be rented for city tours in cities of Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik.
At least since the autumn of 2010, the Ministry of Transport enforced the interpretation that a rider on the Segway is considered as a pedestrian. The amendment act 48/2016 Sb., in force since 20 February 2016, defined a new strange term "osobní technický prost?edek" (= personal technical device/medium) for "personal transporter with selfbalancing device" and "other similar devices". However, the text of the act uses a term "osobní p?epravník" ("personal transporter") in that sense instead. Municipality can restrict their traffic by municipal decree, but such a restriction needs to be marked by road signs. Since 21 March 2016, a new ordinance of the Ministry of Transport, 84/2016 Sb., which introduced several new road signs, is in force:
On 19 July 2016, the Prague Council approved a decree (in force since 3 August 2016) that Segways (strictly speaking all "personal transporters" as defined by law) are forbidden in the Prague Conservation Area, Prague 7 and part of Prague 4
The Segway is classified as a moped (knallert). As such vehicles must be fitted with lights, license plates and mechanical brakes, the Segway is effectively banned from public roads. A trial where the Segway would be classified as a bicycle has been announced running from June 1, 2010 to April 1, 2011. The trial was extended to December 1, 2011, and later to the end of 2014.
Segways are classified as low-power mopeds and therefore require license plates, effectively banning the use on public roads. On March 31, 2015, The Ministry of Transport and Communications of Finland started progress to propose changes to law to allow Segways under 25 km/h on sidewalks and reclassifying them as bicycles. Like bicycles, Segways would be required to include safety reflectors and a bell to alert pedestrians and the driver is required to wear a bicycle helmet.
Segways, also named "gyropode", are equivalent to pedestrians and obey the same rules and laws.
Use of a Segway PT i2 is generally allowed on bicycle paths and public roads within city limits since July 25, 2009. Outside city limits, the Segway may not be used on federal motorways, federal highways, state roads, and district roads. Bicycle lanes must be used if present. Riding a Segway on sidewalks and in pedestrian zones for city tours requires a special permit. The Segway is classified as an "electronic mobility aid", a new class of vehicle defined specifically for the Segway PT. Segways used on public roads must be equipped with front and rear lighting, reflectors, a bell, and an insurance plate. The driver must have procured a vehicle insurance and hold at least an M type (moped) license.
Since 10th of May, 2017, Hungarian police patrols using two Segway vehicles in the Buda Castle area. Officers have distinctive uniform of bicycle squad and their vehicles bear the traditional blue-white livery of the Rend?rség (police). The speed of the unspecified models are limited to 17kmph though it is not announced whether the limit is programmed in or merely a legal declaration. The police and city authorities plan to expand the fleet and also the service area to most tourist areas and public parks.
Previously Segways were introduced in Dombóvár, Tolna County where the city council equipped their city guard in 2015. These units allowed the patrols to quickly and safely access pedestrian areas of the town where even the bicycles were banned.
The Központi Közlekedési F?felügyelet (Central Traffic Authority Board) declared that Segways do not qualify as vehicle but leisure utilities like skateboards or luggage trolleys and their drivers are technically pedestrians. Segway riders may use the sidewalks but they ought to respect the pedestrian rules on public roads.
Segway tours and short term rentals are available in many cities and towns like Zalakaros, and Veszprém where even cross country excursions are available, partly on purpose-built tracks.
Segways are permitted in most public places. They are permitted in certain areas on bicycle paths around Dublin and Cork.
Use of a Segway is allowed within city limits wherever pedestrians or bicycles are allowed, i.e., sidewalks, bicycle paths, parks, etc.
Segways are legal on bicycle trails and roads. They are the equivalent to electrical bikes and obey the same rules and laws. Tours of Luxembourg city, Remich, Rumelange and Schengen are offered on a daily basis.
Policemen have started testing Segways on patrol in Valletta. Informed sources said the Malta Police are considering the purchase of a number of Segways fitted for police work, including a siren and space for radio and other equipment.
In April 2008, the Dutch Government announced that it would ease the ban it had imposed in January 2007 that made it illegal to use a Segway on public roads in the Netherlands. Until recently, a tolerance policy was in place due to the inability of the authorities to classify the Segway as a vehicle. However, certain handicapped people, primarily heart and lung patients, are allowed to use the Segway, but only on the pavement. From 1 July 2008, anyone over the age of 16 is permitted to use a Segway on Dutch roads but users need to buy custom insurance. Amsterdam police officers are testing the Segway. In Rotterdam the Segway is used regularly by police officers and city watches.
Because of the top speed of 20 km/h, the Segway was classified as a moped in Norway. Prior to 2014, there were requirements for registration, insurance, age limit, drivers licenses and helmets to operate a Segway in the country. Therefore, Segways were not originally able to be used legally on public or private roads or on private property in Norway. Segways became legal in Norway on July 1, 2014 on all public roads with speed limits 60 km/h or less, sidewalks and bicycle lanes for ages 16 and older without requiring registration or insurance.
Segways are legal on public paths from age 18 (and below, when accompanied by adults) as an equivalent to pedestrian traffic and are used by local police forces, and by Polícia Marítima] (a Navy unit), for beach patrolling. They are also used (rented) by tour operators across the country, and by shopping security guards.
It was unlawful to use a Segway on any public road or pavement in Sweden until 18 December 2008 when the Segway was re-classified as a cykel klass II (class 2 bicycle). On 1 October 2010 the Segway and similar one person electrical vehicles were re-classified as bicycles.
The Segway is classified as a moped with usage of all bicycle circulation areas. Only the PT i2 and x2 (SE) has been approved for use in Switzerland, no NineBot Elite or mini Pro. Every selfbalancing vehicle must be fullredundant. The PT may be used on roads provided that it is equipped with a Swiss Road Kit and a license plate. The Swiss Road Kit has front and back lighting, a battery source, and a license plate holder. Use on sidewalks and pedestrian zones is prohibited. An exception is made for handicapped individuals, who must obtain in advance a special authorization from the Swiss Federal Roads Office. The Segway PT i180 may also be registered for use on specific request. However, the PT i180 must be equipped with a left/right turn indicator system before it may be admitted for road use.
Distributed in the UK by Segway-UK, the Segway is classified as a powered vehicle and subject to Road Traffic law -- with the effect that, because the Segway is deemed not to meet required safety standards, it is unlawful to use a Segway anywhere other than on private property with the owner's permission. While in opposition in 2008, the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats lobbied the Labour Government to change the law to allow Segways to use public cycle lanes. In July 2010, a man was charged under the Highway Act 1835 in Barnsley for riding his Segway on the pavement, and was prosecuted and fined £75 in January 2011. His conviction was upheld by the High Court on appeal.
North and South America
Restrictions on motorized vehicle use are set by provinces individually. In Alberta, Segways cannot legally be driven on public roads including sidewalks abutting public roads. Segways cannot legally be driven on city-owned bicycle paths in Calgary. Segways are allowed on private land with the landowner's permission. In British Columbia, Segways cannot legally be operated on B.C. roads or on sidewalks because they cannot be licensed or insured as a vehicle in B.C. In Ontario, the Ministry of Transportation started a pilot program allowing Segways to be used by people 14 years or older with a disability, Canada Post door-to-door delivery personnel, and police officers. It was originally planned to end on October 19, 2011, but was extended by two years, and then extended again an additional five years (to October 19, 2018), due to limited participation. Prior to the end of the pilot program, the Ministry of Transportation will assess the data and information gathered from the pilot decide whether to allow Segways and how to legislate them.
The Segway PT has been banned from use on sidewalks and in public transportation in a few municipalities and the company has challenged bans and sought exemption from sidewalk restrictions in over 30 states. Advocacy groups for pedestrians and the blind in the US have been critical of Segway PT use: America Walks and the American Council of the Blind oppose allowing people, even those with disabilities, to drive the Segway PT on sidewalks and have actively lobbied against any such legislation. Today, Segways are allowed on sidewalks in most states, though local municipalities may forbid them. Many states also allow them on bicycle lanes or on roads with speed limits of up to 25 miles per hour (40 km/h).
In 2011, the U.S. government Department of Justice--amending regulations that implement title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)--ruled that the Segway is an "other power-driven mobility device" and its use must be permitted unless the covered entity can demonstrate that users cannot operate the class of devices in accordance with legitimate safety requirements.
A fact sheet published by the US Justice Department states: "People with mobility, circulatory, respiratory, or neurological disabilities use many kinds of devices for mobility. Some use walkers, canes, crutches, or braces. Some use manual or power wheelchairs or electric scooters. In addition, advances in technology have given rise to new devices, such as Segways that some people with disabilities use as mobility devices, including many veterans injured while serving in the military. And more advanced devices will inevitably be invented, providing more mobility options for people with disabilities." There is some allowance in only some very specific circumstances where usage would be considered unsafe. Semi-ambulatory Americans have previously benefitted from Segway use, even in New York City. Segs4Vets provides Segway PTs to permanently injured military veterans.
San Francisco banned the Segway PT from sidewalks citing safety concerns in 2002. The District of Columbia categorizes Segways as a "personal mobility device" which means Segway users follow D.C.'s bicycle laws, which do not require Segway users to wear helmets and other protective gear. Users are not allowed to wear headphones with the exception of hearing aids or other devices that only require the use of one ear.
In Mexico there is no regulation that limits Segway use in public spaces.
Oceania
In Australia laws are determined at the state & territory level, each differing in their adoption of the Australian Road Rules. It is generally illegal to use the two-wheeled electric transporters in public places and on roads throughout Australia.
In the Australian Capital Territory, use of Segways is illegal on roads and other public places, but, as of June 2012, was permitted around Canberra's Lake Burley Griffin and other tourist attractions, subject to training, safety equipment and speed limit requirements.
In New South Wales, the Segway has been confirmed by the Roads and Traffic Authority as being illegal on both roads and footpaths. "In simple terms, riders are way too exposed to mix with general traffic on a road and too fast, heavy and consequently dangerous to other users on footpaths or cycle paths." Although this does not render them totally illegal (they may still, for example, be used on private property), their uses are limited enough that they are not sold to the general public.
In Queensland, the use of the Segway became legal on the 1st of August 2013. Queensland transport Minister Scott Emerson noted that it makes sense for Segways to be allowed on public paths across Queensland, given users wear helmets.
In Western Australia, the law enables Electric Personal Transporters (EPT) (Segways) to be used as part of a supervised commercial tour, being run by an operator that holds the appropriate approvals. You may use an EPT on private property. Tour operators should approach the Local Authority where they wish to operate the tour. Local authorities have ultimate responsibility for approving tour operators within their respective areas.
In New Zealand the Segway PT is classed as a mobility device, in the same category as a mobility scooter or electric wheelchair. Mobility Devices must be ridden on footpaths where possible, at a speed that does not endanger others, and give way to pedestrians. This ruling might not be consistently applied: in 2011, police in Taupo had to stop using Segways because there is no separate vehicle classification that applies to them, requiring their registration as roadworthy in the same manner as cars.
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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