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Maybe Segways Aren't So Safe
from the oops dept
So, last week I was surprised to read a report saying that it was possible to accidentally flip a Segway device, since part of the hype about them was how they were so stable that it was nearly impossible to fall down while using them. Well, here's some more empirical evidence that that's not true. A member of Atlanta's "Ambassador Force" (no, I have no clue what this is) who is testing a bunch of Segways, "toppled" from his Segway and injured his knee. Of course, the article doesn't indicate if it was the Segway toppling or the guy falling off of it completely.
Reader Comments
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Segway Safety
The human input interface on this device is stunning for its ease of use.
Does anything ever live up to it hype these days?
While it might be "possible" to flip a Segway, it also sounded like the reviewer quickly learned how to control it safely. Does anyone learn to be comfortable behind the wheel of a car or riding a bicycle in 15 minutes? I know I was not confident with either in an hour as the reviewer states they were with the Segway.
Suggesting the article from Atlanta is empirical evidence of its lack of safety is a bit unfair. You admit yourself the article says nothing about the circumstances of the fall.
I would hesitate to consider it unsafe just because it is "possible" to flip it if you try. Then supporting that claim with a vague article about someone who fell off one is a bit naïve.
That being said I think the Segway needs far more testing before a safety track record can be examined and conclusions drawn.
I don't know of any directed transportation that is 100% safe. I think the Segway will have its problems, but I would wait to pass judgment on it just to poke fun at the hype.
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Re: Segway Safety
The issue was that they were advertising it as completely safe... and that anyone could use it on sidewalks and stuff. The fact that it seems possible to flip it and/or topple, brings into question whether or not it will be safe on sidewalks.
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Re: Segway Safety
if someone is stupid enough to buy a Segway then they shouldn't be allowed on sidewalks at all.
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other uses for Segway
The Segway could have great potential as robot platform. Self directed or radio controlled. Imagine a self-balancing robotic platform that can carry a 325lb load. I am surprised no one has talked about using it in this way?
With the capabilities I would think it would make an ideal reconnaissance or bomb disposal robot. It is quick, agile and can fit through a standard door way.
With the consumer version being just 3k I would think you could find dozens of good robot uses on this platform.
I smell a grant opportunity.
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Flipping a Segway
I think that someone will always find a way to abuse something - it probably is possible to find a way to topple a Segway, and repeat it as many times as you want. The original claims were probably a bit overstated, but these days, don't you almost always have to overstate your case to get it noticed? Not that the campaign that preceded the Segway needed any more promotion, but you catch my drift.
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Clarity
Perhaps they should've said that it's completely safe for non-morons who aren't trying to beat the controls.
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Nothing is completely safe...
A person can trip and fall just walking and break a leg. If the Segway can cause more injury than a biking accident, then I'd say there's a case for Segway's being liable. But so far it just seems like people are trying to complain a lot....
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Segway safety
Ok, yes - the Segway has 2 HP or so and is only a machine and yes, you can flip it (or a Hummer, if you want to.) They are safer than a motorcycle, that's for sure!
I have ridden a Segway - they are incredibly cool, unlike any electric or otherwise motorized scooter I've ever tried. It really shouldn't be used on slopes or wet pavement - not for offroading! If I could buy one, I'd use it to get to work every day & save $$$ on gas.
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well if anyone can flip it, this doesnt surprise m
This comes as no surprise
Click here for pics
If anyone is gonna screw something up, I'm sure he's the best man for the job.
-recover
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