Toyota today unveiled the “Winglet”, a personal transportation robot ridden in a standing position.
The Winglet, still currently under development, is a compact everyday transport tool that is easy to operate and allows users to expand their range of mobility. Achieving a maximum speed of 6km/h, about the same speed most people walk and driving range of 10km on a full hour charge, the handy gadget is not aimed to be a replacement for Toyota’s car range! However it could prove a useful extra transport tool for those shorter journeys. The gadget takes an hour to charge fully from an ordinary mains socket.
The Winglet consists of a body (with a projected area the size of an A3 sheet of paper) that houses an electric motor, two wheels and internal sensors that constantly monitor the user’s position and make adjustments in power to ensure stability.
A unique parallel link mechanism allows the rider to go forward, backward and turn simply by shifting body weight, making the vehicle safe and useful even in tight spaces or crowded environments.
Toyota has created three models, the “L”, “M” and “S”, each having different handling features that allow consumers to select a model appropriate to their needs – from “practical” to “hands-free sporty”.
Toyota plans various technical and consumer trials to gain feedback during the Winglet’s lead-up to practical use.
The Winglet is one of Toyota’s people-assisting Partner Robots.
Toyota is pursuing sustainability in research and development, manufacturing and social contribution as part of its concept to accomplish “sustainability in three areas” and to help contribute to the health and comfort of future society.
The Toyota Partner Robot development is being carried out with this in mind and applies the company’s approach to monozukuri (“making things”), which includes its mobility, production and other technologies.
Toyota aims to have its Partner Robots in practical use in the early 2010s by furthering its robotic development and strengthening collaboration between industry, government and academia.
