It’s not quite a hoverboard, but Sony looks to be set to take at least two wheels of the venerable earthbound skateboard (and apparently make up for them in size), if this recent patent its been granted is any indication.
The new board has two large wheels, one at either side of a flat platform. Each wheel is powered by a separate electric motor.
The platform has four pressure sensors, one at each corner. When the rider stands upright in the middle of the board, all four sensors return the same reading and both motors are idle. When the rider leans forward slightly the front sensors start both motors running forward at the same speed; leaning to one side makes one wheel run faster to steer round a corner; leaning back runs the contraption backwards.
Learners or sissies can use a modified board with three or four wheels for more stability. Braver folk can use two separate boards – one for each foot, like powered roller skates.
Via New Scientist
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