WL-16RIII walkbot: When a Segway's too much effort

One of the big problems with the Segway is that you still have to stand, which doesn’t help one’s already tired legs. And mobility-challenged folks are keenly aware of the limitations of wheelchairs when confronted by staircases and inclines.

Get Autoblog in your Google feed

One of the big problems with the Segway is that you still
have to stand, which doesn’t help one’s already tired legs. And mobility-challenged folks are keenly aware of the
limitations of wheelchairs when confronted by staircases and inclines.
Engadget posted on a device that may be able to answer both problems. The WL-16III
walkbot, a joint project between Waseda University and tmsuk, is a chair with two legs. The ‘driver’ guides the walkbot
with a pair of joysticks.

While the researchers envisioned the Walkbot for elderly or physically-challenged
individuals, it’s a safe bet that able, but tired, folks will be more that willing to rent them at auto shows or
concerts.

[Source: Reuters via Yahoo! News via Engadget]