Hoverboards, as soon as the discuss of the city, have had their share of ups and downs being chargeable for some 27,000 hospital admissions between 2015-2016). However one innovator, James Bruton, has taken these two-wheeled devices to an entire new stage by reworking them right into a mind-boggling omniwheeled bicycle utilizing a 3D printer and laser cutter.
Bruton’s creation options two colossal omniwheels, all designed and crafted by him, utilizing a mixture of his DIY components. These mammoth wheels are cleverly mounted on the ends of a sturdy plywood “bike body,” which is cut up within the center, permitting the 2 halves to rotate independently, similar to an ordinary hoverboard. Check out the picture beneath that can assist you get your thoughts round that description.
The maker retained the inventory hoverboard motors and electronics for his creation. These motors are chargeable for driving the omniwheels by way of a toothed belt drive. The gear ratio of the belt drive is meticulously configured to accommodate the bigger diameter of the omniwheels, guaranteeing the hoverboard’s stability stays intact.
The tip end result? A self-balancing “bike” in contrast to something you’ve ever seen. Whereas the present management system depends on physique weight and the manipulation of the bike’s sections, James is exploring the usage of servos to tilt the hoverboard sensors for smoother and extra intuitive management.
How does it transfer round? Is it helpful as a way of transport? Check out the video beneath, and choose for your self.
Video
Whereas it’s unlikely that this large orange and black hoverboard will acquire any traction available in the market, it’s nonetheless a fantastic instance of how 3D printing can be utilized to change present tech into wacky and enjoyable new designs. And for these questioning if this overgrown hoverboard will likely be sending one other consumer to the accident and emergency ward, then Bruton has this coated, as he has included an influence cutout for added security.
Supply: hackaday.com
Come and tell us your ideas on our Fb, Twitter, and LinkedIn pages, and don’t neglect to join our weekly additive manufacturing e-newsletter to get all the newest tales delivered proper to your inbox.