Segway Human Transporter hits the UK

The Segway Human Transporter (HT) is to be marketed to the aerospace and defence industry in the United Kingdom thanks to a partnership drawn up by BAE Systems and Segway LLC. The partnership was announced at the British debut of the self-balancing, electric-powered transportation device at the Farnborough Air show. The device is currently being deployed by U.S. companies and organisations, including numerous industrial concerns, the U.S. Postal Service and various emergency medical and law enforcement groups. Early results have been overwhelmingly positive with most seeing double-digit productivity gains in initial applications. Various U.S. Military branches are currently evaluating Segway HT for both tactical and logistical support operations. "The ability to move quicker, travel farther and carry more is critical to military operations," said Dean Kamen, chairman of Segway LLC. "In tactical operations, the Segway HT can help to lessen soldier fatigue while expediting troop deployment. For logistical operations, the Segway HT consumes a fraction of the space and weight of other transportation alternatives and moves easily between indoor and outdoor applications. Our partnership with BAE Systems, will enable us to deliver these benefits to defence and aerospace organisations in the United Kingdom." Engineers from Silicon Sensing Systems (SSS) worked with Segway LLC to develop the Balance Sensor Assembly that enables the device to balance. SSS is a joint venture between BAE Systems and Sumitomo Precision Products of Japan. "We've been working successfully with Segway LLC to develop the Balance Sensor Assembly for the Segway Human Transporter, and I'm excited by this latest development in our relationship," said BAE Systems chief operating officer Chris Geoghegan. "BAE Systems delivers innovative solutions across our product range, and we're looking forward to including the Segway HT in our portfolio. The device has massive potential for military users, and we're looking forward to discussing the Segway Human Transporter with our clients and contacts." The Segway HT uses a balance sensor assembly of five gyroscope sensors and two tilt sensors. The innovative gyroscope sensors were developed by BAE Systems, and are a Millennium Product. Cost effective, reliable and shock resistant, they are also found in cars, in advanced braking systems, and they are suitable for roll-over protection and airbag deployment applications. They are used for marine navigation aids, unmanned air vehicles, tilting trains, robotics and wheelchairs.