Segway too complicated?

[SuperJake]

I don't think that the problem is the Segway being too complicated. I think the problem stems mostly from the hype that preceeded the release. 'It' or 'Ginger' was hyped to be something that would change the world... something that cities would be built arround. So people started working up this grand idea of what they think it could be. I remember hearing people predicting a sterling engine or perhaps a method of maintaining a stable fusion reaction. Then when the Segway HT was unveiled, naturally everyone that had these huge pictures built up in their mind would be let down. Its like going to see a movie you expect to be some great epic and it turns out only to be a good epic. To you, it is a let down because it is only 'good' - but to everyone else, it was a good movie for the same reason (it was 'good' and they were expecting less). Also, if you look at dean's other inventions, specifically the iBot wheel chair, they are relatively small steps in the grand scale of things. Granted it is really cool for a wheel chair to walk up stairs and to stand on two wheels, but it is insignificant next to a true sterling engine or reliable nuclear fusion. The iBot helps disabled people move arround more efficiently than a wheel chair. Likewise, the Segway helps regular people move arround (arguably) more efficient than our own two feet. And hey, don't jump to the easy 'But it can't go up stairs!' or 'It can go on rough terrain very well' because not every design can cover everything. You have to pick a few things you're going to be good at and stick to them. The Segway is good at going over urban terrain at a relatively (relative to walking) quick pace and is just about as manuverable as a walking person is.

Another thing is probably the price. Yeah, the Segway is way to expensive for the general public. But that is understandable since it isn't being mass produced like most products are today. Truthfully, the Segway isn't something I need, but I still think it would pretty cool and something to have.

[KenWittlief]

you had to click on the link to see the reference - its too complicated because all it needs is a castor, instead of all those gyros and SW controls (that was the links premise anyway)

as for the price - I believe they are targeting the high end and the commercial and professional users - after Segway has been on the sidewalks for a while, being ridden by Mailmen and delivery people, cops and meter maids

then how can a cop tell you "you cant ride that thing on the sidewalk, street...!"

they are setting the precident first, then the lower cost segway machines will show up on the market.

[sanddrag]

Sorry if I offend anyone with this but I wonder how long it will be until we see the Chinese spinoffs of the Segway. You know what happened with the Razor scooter.

[KenWittlief]

at least 20 years? DK has a very tight patent on the technology used in the Segway and Ibot.

[ngreen]

How many years until there is a Segway/iBot? I'd looove one of those.. Climbing stairs and being maneuverable and balanced. I think that would be amazing....I can't wait..need money now.