A hoverboard is an innovative and environmentally friendly form of personal transportation. It uses a complex system of gyroscopes, sensors, and motors to maintain balance and mobility. These devices consist of two motorized wheels connected by a central platform, and the rider controls speed and direction simply by shifting their body weight.
In this article, we'll explore what a hoverboard is, how technology works, safety, and how to choose the right hoverboard.
What Is a Hoverboard？
A hoverboard, also known as a self-balancing scooter, is a portable, battery-powered personal transportation device consisting of two motorized wheels connected by a platform.
The rider stands on the platform and can control the speed and direction of the hoverboard by shifting their weight or using the mounted pressure-sensing foot pads.
The technology behind the hoverboard includes gyroscopes and sensors that help maintain balance and manage propulsion, making it a popular choice for short trips.
The Hoverboard Components
Hoverboards are made up of several components that create a stable and responsive platform for you to ride on. Here’s an overview of the main components found in most hoverboards:
1. Gyroscopes and Sensors
Gyroscopes measure the inclination and pitch of the hoverboard, which helps keep you upright by adjusting the motors to your center of gravity. Sensors, including speed sensors and tilt sensors, provide information about the angle and speed of the board to the control board.
2. Motors
Each wheel of a hoverboard contains a motor that is powered by the hoverboard’s battery. These motors are responsible for moving the hoverboard and are calibrated to respond to the inclination and speed detected by the gyroscopes and sensors.
3. Batteries
The batteries are the power source for the hoverboard and are typically lithium-ion battery packs. The quality and capacity of the batteries affect the range, speed, and overall performance of the hoverboard. Batteries must be certified and meet specific safety standards to prevent problems such as overheating.
4. Control Board
This is the brains of the hoverboard. It processes signals from the gyroscopes and sensors to manage the power output to the motors. The control board ensures that the hoverboard responds accurately to your movements while riding.
5. Frame and Chassis
This is the main body of the hoverboard, housing all of the internal components. It is usually made of a strong metal like aluminum to ensure durability while keeping the device lightweight.
6. Wheels and Tires
The wheels of a hoverboard are usually made of solid rubber to increase durability and traction. Each wheel has a motor inside it, which is independently controlled by the control board based on your balance and direction.
Each of the components described here should function properly and harmoniously for the hoverboard to operate safely and efficiently. Understanding these components can help you maintain your hoverboard and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
How Does Hoverboard Work？
Hoverboards work based on balance control and electric drive systems. Each hoverboard has two wheels, each controlled by an independent motor and an internal balance system. This system usually includes gyroscopes and accelerometers that detect the driver's body tilt angle and direction changes.
You need to control the direction of movement by tilting your body forward and backward: lean forward and the hoverboard will move forward; lean backward and it will move backward. Left and right steering is achieved by fine-tuning the pressure difference between the left and right feet.
When you choose to lean forward or backward, the sensor will pass the tilt data to the main control board, which then adjusts the speed of the motor to maintain balance and drive forward or backward.
Because the motor and sensor work together in real-time, the hoverboard can quickly respond to your tilt changes while riding, thereby achieving stable and sensitive directional control.
Are Hoverboards Safe?
Hoverboards are safe and reliable as long as we use them correctly and responsibly. But like many personal transportation devices, hoverboards also have some potential safety risks. As long as you take proper precautions and are aware of potential dangers, you can use them safely.
1. Safety Issues
- Falls and crashes: For beginners and children, the most common risk is falls or crashes due to loss of balance or control.
- Battery issues: There have been reports of hoverboards catching fire, usually related to battery failure or improper charging. These problems have led to recalls and stricter battery safety standards.
- Speed: In crowded areas, the speed of hoverboards can make it difficult to stop quickly, increasing the risk of accidents.
2. Safety Tips
- Wear protective gear: Wearing a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards can help us prevent falls and injuries.
- Learn and practice: Beginners should practice in a safe, open area away from traffic and obstacles until they are proficient in using the board's controls.
- Charge properly: Only use the charger that comes with the hoverboard, follow the manufacturer's charging instructions, and never leave the hoverboard unattended while charging.
- Buy a certified hoverboard: Make sure any hoverboard you buy is certified to relevant safety standards, such as UL 2272, which covers electrical and fire safety testing. Choose to buy hoverboards from well-known brands such as GOTRAX, Hover-1, etc.
Here are the potential risks and safety tips about hoverboards. Understanding these factors can help you eliminate safety issues and use them with more confidence. In addition, there are additional laws and regulations mainly in Canada when buying a hoverboard.
Hoverboard Regulations and Advice
In Canada, hoverboard regulations vary from province to province, reflecting the different ways in which they are treated by traffic and pedestrian safety laws. For example:
- In Ontario, hoverboards are similar to e-scooters and are allowed on roads with a speed limit of 50 KPH or less, but users must wear helmets and follow the rules of the road.
- In British Columbia, hoverboards are classified as motor vehicles and cannot be used on public roads or sidewalks.
- In provinces such as Manitoba and New Brunswick, hoverboards are not explicitly mentioned in traffic laws, indicating that hoverboards are not explicitly prohibited and can be used in most situations.
- In Nova Scotia, hoverboards are not considered devices allowed on public roads, which means they cannot be used on roads or sidewalks.
Given the differences in regulations, you need to check local municipal or provincial regulations before purchasing a hoverboard to ensure that you can ride legally and safely. In addition, in places where hoverboards are allowed, you should always consider wearing safety equipment such as helmets and taking appropriate precautions to prevent injuries.
How to Choose the Hoverboard?
Choosing the right hoverboard requires several considerations to ensure you get a device that meets your needs, preferences, and safety standards. Here are a few we recommend:
- Safety certification: Ensure it is certified to the UL 2272 safety standard, reducing the risk of electrical issues or fire.
- Wheel size: Hoverboard wheels typically range from 6.5 to 10 inches. Some uneven surfaces require larger wheels.
- Battery and speed: Buy a hoverboard from a reputable brand. A good hoverboard should balance a decent speed (usually around 6-10 KPH) with a reasonable range (6-15 km per charge).
- Motor power: Motor power typically ranges from 200 watts to 400 watts per wheel, with more powerful motors better able to handle inclines and heavier weights.
- Weight capacity: Make sure the hoverboard can support your weight before buying.
- Features: Consider additional features like Bluetooth, GPS, and LED lights.
- Price: Set a budget and compare features within that range. Remember, a higher budget usually buys a safer, more reliable, and more feature-rich hoverboard.
Taking these factors into consideration, you can also buy the hoverboard you like and that suits you. Currently, the GOTRAX website is offering a large number of hoverboard discounts to welcome Black Friday. You can go there to learn about the discount details!
FAQ
How Fast Can a Hoverboard Go?
Most hoverboards can reach speeds of 6 to 10 km/h, and some high-performance ones can reach speeds of more than 12 km/h.
However, for people's safety, many hoverboards are equipped with speed regulators to monitor the rotation of the wheels and adjust the speed, so the maximum speed of the skateboard is usually limited to 7.5 miles per hour.
Does the GOTRAX Hoverboard Have Other Features?
GOTRAX hoverboards feature self-balancing technology, making them great for beginners as well as experienced riders. Some models are all-terrain capable and come with Bluetooth speakers and LED lights for added fun and safety.
They are UL 2272 certified, ensuring compliance with electrical and fire safety standards, making them a solid choice for both recreational and adventurous riding.
Find Your Hoverboard at GOTRAX Canada!
Through this article, I believe you have a certain understanding of the definition of hoverboards, working principles, safety, and factors to consider when choosing a hoverboard.
If you want to explore more options, learn more details, or are ready to buy, please click here to visit the official website of GOTRAX Canada. We provide every customer with a wealth of choices and detailed product information to help you find the hoverboard that suits you best. Come and buy it!
Related reading: GOTRAX Black Friday Deals in Canada
