NEW ELECTRIC TRUCK STEERED WITH FEET (Mar, 1931)
Source: Popular Science ( More articles from this issue )
Issue: Mar, 1931
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NEW ELECTRIC TRUCK STEERED WITH FEET
The operator of a new German industrial truck stands on a small platform mounted on a horizontal axle. Tilting it to one side or the other by pressure of his right or left foot steers the vehicle to right or left as desired, leaving both hands free to control power and brakes. Steering by the operator’s platform in this fashion makes a compact machine, with the greatest amount of loading capacity on the shortest wheelbase and turning circle.
The operator finds no difficulty in maintaining his balance upon the steering platform even on turns, because he has only to respond to the natural instinct to lean in the direction of the turn, exactly as a skilled rider does in guiding a horse. The foot-steered truck, it is claimed, materially increases the efficiency not only of the operator but of the machine itself.
It’s a Segway! Or not.
Comment by Anne — June 21, 2008 @ 4:21 am
Steampunk Segway!
Comment by Dave — June 21, 2008 @ 6:53 am
Segways I do not understand. An expensive vehicle that can travel, anywhere you can walk. At walking speed!
Comment by JeffK — June 21, 2008 @ 3:45 pm
But you don’t have to actually move your legs, JeffK. So it’s WAY better.
Comment by Anne — June 21, 2008 @ 4:13 pm