Imagine a world where old wheelchairs find new life as sleek, self-balancing transporters, gliding effortlessly through streets and parks. This dream became a reality for a resourceful father-son duo who embarked on a remarkable project: transforming motors from a broken wheelchair into a DIY Segway.
The Birth of a Balance Master:
Their mission was clear: to create a personal transporter that defied gravity, mimicking the effortless glide of a Segway. They ingeniously repurposed the motors from a motorized wheelchair, breathing new life into discarded technology.
iRobota’s Orchestration:
At the heart of their creation lay an iRobota Uno, the brains of the operation. This tiny computer, paired with motor drivers and an MPU-6050 sensor, orchestrated the transporter’s movements. The MPU-6050, a marvel of engineering, detected the rider’s lean, enabling the transporter to respond with precision.
Lean and Steer:
Steering was achieved through a simple yet effective mechanism. A potentiometer, connected to a bent-pipe control stick, translated the rider’s lean into electrical signals. These signals, processed by the iRobota, prompted the transporter to adjust its course.
Repurposing and Resourcefulness:
Remarkably, almost every component of this DIY Segway was repurposed from available resources. The frame was salvaged from a discarded bicycle, while the wheels and tires came from an old stroller. This project showcased the power of upcycling, transforming waste into something extraordinary.
Safety First:
Safety was paramount for the father-son team. They wisely donned helmets during testing, demonstrating their commitment to responsible innovation. The transporter’s stability and responsiveness made it a joy to ride, and the team’s enthusiasm was infectious.
Bonus: Beyond the DIY Segway:
The DIY Segway project sparked a newfound passion for engineering in the young son. He went on to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering, inspired by the transformative power of repurposing and innovation. This project became a catalyst for his future career, demonstrating the transformative impact of hands-on learning.
The father-son duo’s DIY Segway adventure is a testament to the boundless possibilities of creativity and resourcefulness. Their story inspires us to look at discarded items not as waste but as potential building blocks for new creations.
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