Researchers have unveiled a new style of personal mobile vehicle they have developed called the Permoveh, that will allow users to move in a sideways direction as well as the traditional forward and backward directions.
The sideways directional movement is possible due to a new style of wheel which has been created by the team. The research team’s leader, Masaharu Komori, associate professor of mechanical engineering at Kyoto University, can be seen demonstrating the new design in the video after the jump.
Innovative Wheel Design
The new vehicle has been named Permoveh, short for “Personal Mobile Vehicle,” and is equipped with four omnidirectional-drive wheels, each equipped with 32 rollers, similar to those for roller skates along the sides of each wheel. This innovative wheel design is what allows the Permoveh to achieve its unique sideways movement. The rollers enable the vehicle to glide smoothly in any direction, providing unprecedented maneuverability in tight spaces.
Using the rollers to move sideways and wheels to move backwards and forwards, the Permoveh can reach a maximum speed of 6 kph. This speed is sufficient for indoor environments such as shopping malls, airports, and large office buildings, where the ability to navigate through crowded areas with ease is highly beneficial.
Future Development and Applications
The researchers are now working on making the vehicle lighter and cheaper to produce, as it currently costs around 3 million yen or $36,000. Reducing the cost and weight of the Permoveh is crucial for its commercial viability and widespread adoption. The team is exploring various materials and manufacturing techniques to achieve these goals.
The Permoveh is expected to arrive in stores in around 3-5 years’ time. Once available, it could revolutionize personal transportation, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges. The ability to move sideways could make it easier for users to navigate through narrow doorways, elevators, and other confined spaces.
In addition to personal use, the Permoveh has potential applications in various industries. For example, it could be used in warehouses for efficient inventory management, in hospitals for patient transport, or in airports for assisting travelers with limited mobility. The versatility and adaptability of the Permoveh make it a promising solution for a wide range of scenarios.
The development of the Permoveh represents a significant advancement in the field of personal mobility vehicles. By addressing the limitations of traditional wheel designs, the research team has created a vehicle that offers greater freedom of movement and improved accessibility. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions that enhance the quality of life for individuals with mobility challenges.
Source: DVICE : KyodoNews
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