Imagine being able to travel in the city without queues, without stress and without having to look for parking: Ringbot, the new prototype from the University of Illinois, opens the doors to a completely new way of moving. This small single-wheel robot, the size of a trolley, moves nimbly and autonomously thanks to an automatic balancing system. Equipped with two retractable "feet" that emerge from the wheel when necessary, Ringbot is able to overcome obstacles, change direction and even go up and down steps.
It's not just science fiction: the robot has already been successfully tested and researchers are working to improve its performance and autonomy.
How does Ringbot, the single-wheel robot that never falls, work?
The secret to Ringbot's balance lies in two independent driving modules positioned inside the wheel. These modules control the speed and rotation of the wheel, allowing the robot to stay upright and move smoothly. As if that weren't enough, two retractable legs intervene when the robot loses balance or when it needs to change direction.
This setup provides Ringbot with several advantages:
- Compactness: Thanks to its small size, the single-wheel robot can easily maneuver through city traffic and park in minimal spaces.
- Efficiency: Ringbot is powered by batteries and produces no harmful emissions, helping to reduce air pollution.
- Security: The automatic balancing system and the sensors with which the single-wheel robot is equipped guarantee safe and stable driving.
Next steps
Ringbot's technology is still in the development phase: before it can become a widespread means of transport, the robot's autonomy and its ability to resist bad weather need to be increased. And then, well, there are even no regulations for the circulation of these new single-wheel robots on the roads. What are? Motorcycle? Bikes? Scooters? I don't even want to think about it.
However, in addition to urban mobility Ringbot could be used in other sectors. Three examples?
- Logistics: for the delivery of small parcels in urban areas
- Agriculture: for harvesting fruit and vegetables in greenhouses or cultivated fields
- Emergency Services: to reach inaccessible areas or to transport medical supplies
Not to mention the potential to improve the mobility of people with disabilities who have difficulty using traditional means of transport.
In short (Italian only)
There's potential here, huh. This small single-wheel robot could truly revolutionize urban mobility, making it more efficient, sustainable and fun. What do you think? Would you get on board a Ringbot?
While you think about it (you can even not answer me right away), here you can find the complete research published in IEEE.
