Honda announces new UNI-CUB personal mobility device
May 16, 2012
Honda’s new UNI-CUB personal mobility device is designed for “harmony with people.” Featuring a compact design and saddle, the UNI-CUB offers the same freedom of movement in all directions that the average person has while walking.
Video Source: SportsCarIllustrated
Comments (12)
by sarah
reminds me of wall-e
by Gary
Reminds me of the “tumblebug” vehicle from Heinlein’s “The Roads Must Roll.” Perhaps a bit more-so than the Segway
by vescovom
Steve said it. Why would you want to get around on this thing? They should have showed it next to people walking and overtaking them and making expressions like “get out the way!” as they try to get around them, lol. they should also show them falling over as they most likely do a lot. especially when the ground is a bit rough etc.
by Scott
Personally, I think it’s a great idea. Yes the models using it are in perfect health and would be better off walking, but this would be great for older people, people with spinal issues, or just bad knees joints and a number of other medical conditions. Wheelchairs are needed by everyone and some people have the choice of a wheelchair or suffer through the pain or trouble of getting around. Is it for everyone? No, but far from useless or a bad idea and keep in mind it’s just a prototype. Honestly, I could even see this technology being used for some of the first generation robots as well.
by John
I don’t see anywhere to put the takeout extra large, loaded pizza….
by GatorALLin
ah yes, the rolling toilets….that will sell great here in the USA, if you attach them to beer coolers and TV’s and their lazyboy recliners…. Something about the stand up segway seems less lazy. Although the wheel that goes forward and sideways is brilliant idea to see in action. Thumbs up at least on that part of this invention. I can’t see non handicap users here in USA adopting this ever.
by Scott
Needs at least one arm rest, and a place to set a bag or briefcase, I always carry stuff with me… What’s the weight limit?
My grandma might appreciate it, but she would definitely need a way to hang a purse from it, and an arm rest.
by jmwaite
Yes, but will it carry a 600 lb American?
by Bobolink7
I can just see the races down the halls at the nursing home! :D
by Bob Vasquez
Design it to go up and down stairs, get on escalators, manage ADA ramps, inclines and, hmmm, can it hop-scotch?
by Steve Engard
What is the practical application of this device? Is it for individuals who can no longer walk due to some disease, therefore replacing wheelchairs? In that case it can only help those individuals who have good upper body control. For otherwise healthy individuals, it is impractical, as it only promotes muscle wasting and overall deconditioning.
by Matt Stuart
Steve, you just spoke my mind. They should have shown their petite models growing larger through the video as they replaced their walking with uni-cubbing. I don’t get it.