Final version 2Final version
OwnerJohn Dingley
Owner's Other EVGyrosurfer
LocationSwansea, Wales United Kingdom map
WebWebPage
Vehicle2008 Self-balancing one wheeled vehicle
Balances using gyroscope, accelerometer and small computer (AVR microcontroller) updating balance position about 100 times per second.
Built in a sort of inadvertent "steampunk" Wallace and Gromit construction style!
Motor Brushless DC
420W motor. Possibly from golf cart originally.
DrivetrainChain and sprockets.
Controller OSMC
Open source controller for large combat robots. From USA.
Batteries2, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Gel
System Voltage24 Volts
Charger
Small 12V charger
HeaterNone
InstrumentationLow battery LED warning.
Loud buzzer indicates >75% duty cycle being sent to motor (you always need some power in reserve to stop you falling off forwards).
Top Speed12 MPH (19 KPH)
Possible to go faster but would be very dangerous to user if it suddenly stopped at greater than 12mph (unable to jump off at a run).
AccelerationNot sure. Limited by courage of user rather than available power.
RangeRuns for about 30-40min. Very little power consumed when just balancing on level surface.
Seating Capacity1 standing!
TiresBig go-kart rear tire (*1)
Conversion TimeWay too long. Mainly software balancing issues.
Conversion CostAbout $600 spread over 3 months
Additional FeaturesBracket for optional extra features to be clamped into place such as headlamp, beer can holder etc.

code by jerry