What do you think of when you hear the name Segway? If you’re like many out there, “tech failure” pops into your head. Dean Kamen’s invention of the Segway PT scooter was expected to revolutionize personal transportation. The Segway was meant to usher in a new era of errand running and puttering around town.

We are all aware that didn’t happen. The Segway is still around and it isn’t a totally unusual site to see someone taking a Segway out for a “drive” in the park.  For a “failed” technology, that is a pretty impressive feat!

But just how do these two-wheeled scooters work? Electric motors hold the key.

Powering the Segway

Electric motors fueled by phosphate-based lithium batteries power the Segway. The scooters are easily charged by simply plugging them into a common electrical socket. Thanks to a combination of two computers, special software, tilt sensors, and five gyroscopic sensors the Segway remains upright and doesn’t tip over.

Making the Segway Move

The user plays the largest role in making the Segway move. Simply by shifting your weight in the direction you wish to go and moving the handlebars a little, the Segway’s sensors identify the change in balance point and react accordingly. The latest version of the Segway has a top speed of 12.5 MPH. For obvious reason, it works best on flat surfaces.

Lowered Expectations

Experts touted that the Segway would be a bigger deal that Internet. Clearly the device didn’t live up to that level of hype!

However, once the Segway was released many thought it looked strange and you looked weird riding one. Others thought it looked dangerous. Regardless, the negatives were enough to prevent the Segway from reaching its promised potential.