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this prince of wales A three-wheeled mobility scooter using unique self-stabilizing robotic technology was tested during a visit to an academic center for robotics research in Bristol.
William visited the Bristol Robotics Laboratory on Thursday, where he saw how technology is being developed to support older and disabled people to maintain their physical and mental health.
He saw three products: a body brace developed by VIVO designed to enhance independent living, a Supersmith mobility scooter, and SmartSocks created by Milbotix that track health data such as heart rate.
William tried out a prototype of Supersmith’s 3Scooter, which is set to launch in the spring, and joked with its creator that its top speed of 4 mph wasn’t fast enough for him.
Tom Morgan, CEO and co-founder of Supersmith, designed the electric scooter with his sister in mind.
She has multiple sclerosis and struggles with technology that doesn’t fully meet her needs.
Mr Morgan said: “The reason three wheels are better than four is because they can move quickly in short, tight spaces, which four wheels can’t do.
“So our vehicle is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It helps you move through crowds, it’s lighter, it’s more compact. So three wheels have a big advantage.”
He continued: “The problem is that three wheels usually tilt, so we developed this patented technology in the robot that when you turn, it gently tilts you into the turn.
“It helps you stay completely upright, stable and safe when you’re driving on uneven ground or slopes (which often tip you).”
The Bristol Robotics Laboratory is a joint project between the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England (UWE), located at its Frencay campus.
Home to more than 500 academics, researchers, students and entrepreneurs, the center is home to a range of robotics technologies.
Professor Darren Reynolds, Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange at UWE Bristol, said: “These start-ups are solving social challenges, improving people’s lives and powering our economy.
“prince william See firsthand our thriving community of technically-minded and solution-focused entrepreneurs and researchers reimagining tomorrow through the power of robotics and artificial intelligence. “