UNI-CUB
The UNI-CUB was first introduced in May 2012 as a new personal mobility device featuring balance control technology and an omni-directional driving wheel system (Honda Omni Traction Drive System) which originates from Honda's research into humanoid robots, represented by the research and development of ASIMO.
In 2013, Honda unveiled the UNI-CUB β, the new personal mobility device which was made usable for a wider range of people by enhancing the device's compatibility.
U3-X (2009)
A compact experimental device that fits comfortably between the rider's legs, to provide free movement in all directions just as in human walking - forward, backward, side-to-side, and diagonally.
UNI-CUB (2012)
Features Honda's proprietary balance control technology and the world's first omni-directional driving wheel system (Honda Omni Traction Drive System), representing the evolution of the U3-X.
UNI-CUB β (2013-)
Compared with the previous model, made smaller and lighter, improved usability and advanced design and materials.
Features
Maneuverability promoting compatibility with other moving people
- Omni-directional freedom of movement similar to human walking
- Movement in harmony with other people
- Compact device staying within the personal space of the rider
The rider's feet easily reach the ground, and the rider is free to use his or her hands.
UNI-CUB's compact packaging allows the rider and another person to mitigate impact should they accidentally come in contact just like two people walking.
Ease of control promoting freedom of movement
- Turning wheel facilitating nimble turning
- Weight shift control
Omnidirectional freedom of movement similar to human walking
The front wheel features the Honda Omni Traction Drive System. The rear wheel moves laterally to facilitate turning.
By leveraging this layout and the different rotational speeds of the front and rear wheel treads during lateral movements, UNI-CUB can move forwards and backwards, side-to-side and diagonally and also turn in place, making possible quick, nimble movement.
Smooth and stable movement in barrier-free indoor environments
- Enhanced balance control and stability
- Enhanced mobility
Balance control technology originating in Honda's robotics research
Stable freedom of movement in barrier-free indoor environmnets
Honda has taken the balance control technology it developed in its robotics research to the next level. Thanks to optimized wheel shapes, higher-precision control of drive power and posture stabilization and more stable maintenance of vertical position, riders can enjoy riding UNI-CUB in barrier-free indoor environments with peace of mind.
Compact saddle-style packaging
Hands-free
Origin of name "UNI-CUB"
A name familiar to Honda fans
Similar to the "U" in "U3-X," "UNI" comes from the "uni" in "unique," "universal" and "unicycle." "Cub" comes from Honda's well-known Cub series of motorcycles, signifying that UNI-CUB is a convenient tool that anyone can use.
Design
Design concept
UNI-CUB is designed to be in harmony with people and offer ease of control and a high degree of mobility to any rider in barrier-free indoor environments.
UNI-CUB β adopted a new design that enhances the sense of unity of the user and the device. Softer materials are used in order to improve riding comfort.
System structure
Footrests with a stand function
Compared to the UNI-CUB, the seating position was lowered and the weight was reduced, making the UNI-CUB β usable for a wider range of people.
The ease of getting on and off the device was improved through the addition of a stand function.
Key specifictaions
| Size (L x W x H) | 510 x 315 x 620 mm |
| Seat height adjustment range | 620 mm |
| Battery type | Lithium-ion battery |
| Weight | 25 Kg |
| Maximum speed | 6 km/h |
| Range | 6 km (approximately 1.5 hours at the speed of 4 km/h) |
| Application environment | Barrier-free indoor environments |
UNI-CUB in use (artist's impression)
UNI-CUB is designed to be in harmony with people and offer ease of control and a high degree of mobility to any rider in barrier-free indoor environments.
In recent years, the number and size of indoor facilities has increased, and people are spending more time in them and walking longer distances. UNI-CUB is designed to be used among people moving around in airports, aquariums, shopping malls, libraries, museums and other indoor facilities.
in the shopping mall
in the museum
in the classroom
in the exhibition hall
at the airport
in teh library
