The Uni-Cub concept from Honda is an evolution of the U3-X unicycle shown two years ago. Unlike its predecessor, the new scooter has two wheels: the second added stability and maneuverability, it allows the device to rotate in place at all 360 degrees
Both wheels of the device are made according to the scheme tested on U3-X: the surface of the larger wheel consists of small wheels that are driven to the sides. Thus, the scooter can move diagonally, and in general as you like.
From now on, the rider controls the machine not only by tilting his body, but also using the joystick on the right "armrest" (there is a button on the left, its purpose is a mystery). Eyewitnesses say the Uni-Cub is much more difficult to use than it sounds.
The highest speed of the "unikub" is 10 km / h. The battery lasts for an hour's drive. Maximum load - 100 kg.
The Honda Robotics division considers its Uni-Cub useful in shopping and office centers, as well as in showrooms, but there is no talk of commercializing the new product.
Photo: Jacob Gordon / membrana.ru
Photo: Response / membrana.ru
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The Chinese are investing billions in the Skycar flying car
The American company Moller International (MI) has become famous all over the world thanks to its Skycar flying car and other wonderful devices, which it promises to put on the conveyor almost since the 1960s. For the past three years, nothing has been heard about the company at all - it seemed that she rested in Bose. And then came the message about the "historical shift".
MI announced that it had signed a memorandum of understanding with a certain Chinese partner. We are talking about the imminent creation of a joint venture in the Middle Kingdom for the development, production and sale of Skycar cars, Rotapower engines, Aerobot drones and other products.
The goal is to achieve an annual volume of 100 thousand units by 2018. For this, the Chinese are allegedly ready to invest 84.5 billion yuan (more than $ 13 billion) in the business. In exchange for a seven-figure investment, businessmen from the Middle Kingdom will receive the rights to use MI's intellectual property. The American company will have a 25 percent stake in the joint venture and royalties on each unit sold.
The joint venture will build a number of facilities in China: a production facility, an R&D center, an aerodynamic test site, an office complex, a five-star hotel, a hostel, a leisure facility, commercial centers, showrooms, and so on. Apparently, Moller International can easily move to partners for permanent residence.
The Chinese promise to resolve land issues, deal with licensing, knock out state support, including government funding, in a word - MI will be provided with comprehensive assistance, which it so lacked at home.
“Although we have yet to complete the formalities, we are confident that the consortium's intentions are already clear - to become the world leader in personal air transport,” said MI founding father Dr. Paul Moller. “This is a historic shift for our company and an important step on a long journey towards the reality of a new form of personal transportation,” added CEO Bruce Calkins.
Perhaps the Chinese billions will really get things off the ground. A formal agreement on the JV is expected to be signed in early January 2012.
