The SegwayTM Human Transporter (HT) is one of several low-speed transportation devices (e.g., bikes, scooters, wheelchairs) that, under certain circumstances, travels on sidewalks, roadways, and other shared-use paths. The objective of this research was to examine the primary operating characteristics of the SegwayTM HT. Research was conducted at the Federal Highway Administration’s Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center on a closed sidewalk course. Speed and stopping distance were examined for experienced riders, and speed and clearance distance in the presence of obstacles were examined for experienced and novice riders. Overall, both experienced and novice riders were able to navigate the sidewalk course without difficulties. The results provided empirical data regarding the operating characteristics of the SegwayTM HT in relation to acceleration and stopping distance (for both planned and unplanned stops) as well as approach speed and clearance distance when navigating around obstacles. Such information is needed to develop a rational approach to incorporate SegwayTM HT traffic into regulating, planning, designing, and controlling shared-use paths and roadways. The SegwayTM HT represents just one of many unconventional transportation modes that may share these facilities in the future. The methodologies described may prove useful in determining the operating characteristics of these other modes, as well. (Author/publisher)
Abstract