The Toyota Winglet: Personal Transporter

Only a year after taking control of Sony’s robotics business, Toyota announced a mechanized vertical scooter. This personal transporter was intended to help people move about in public areas.

It was called the Winglet because of its fleet nature. It is the first gadget to duplicate the celebrated, navigation system of Dean Kamen’s Segway Transporter.

The Winglet—still being refined—is one of TMC’s people-assisting Toyota Partner Robots. Designed to contribute to society by helping people enjoy a safe and fully mobile life, the Winglet is a compact next-generation everyday transport tool that offers advanced ease of use and expands the user’s range of mobility.

The Winglet consists of a body (with a projected area the size of an A3 sheet of paper) that houses an electric motor, two wheels and internal sensors that constantly monitor the user’s position and make adjustments in power to ensure stability. Meanwhile, a unique parallel link mechanism allows the rider to go forward, backward and turn simply by shifting body weight, making the vehicle safe and useful even in tight spaces or crowded environments.

source: Toyota