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Inventor Dean Kamen Unveils "IT"
On Monday morning, world renowned inventor Dean Kamen demonstrated the device known as "IT" or "Ginger." This device, called the Segway Human Transporter, is the first self balanced human transporter. It can travel speeds of up to 17 miles per hour, and uses gyroscopes to maintain balance. The device has tilt sensors that monitor your center of gravity and transfers that to a computer that controls the speed and direction of the device. Riders have to do very little more than thinking about the direction and speed they want to go to get Segway to perform.
The 65-pound device will be powered by a rechargeable electric battery that when charged for 6 hours (usually overnight), can travel 15 miles. The device is expected to revolutionize the way people travel in cities. "Cars are great for going long distances. But it makes no sense at all for people in cities to use a 4,000-pound piece of metal," Kamen says.
The Segway will be one of the key devices showcased by Hi-Tek’s Trans-Tek neighborhood, and it will bring you the latest information about where and when you can get a Segway for yourself. Consumer versions are expected to be on sale by the end of 2002 for about $3000.
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