This has been mentioned a bit in @linny’s stealth board thread but I’ve really liked the idea of a new type of hybrid esk8 that is a cross between a push board and a true esk8.
The idea is to have essentially a push skateboard with a one button remote in your hand. There is no electronic braking built in to the system, foot braking only. You push up to whatever speed you like while holding the button down and it acts as cruise control. This will ONLY match your top push speed. This button will not accelerate you at all. When you let go of the button, it goes back to a free-coasting push board.
Pros:
- Remote could be tiny. It only needs to send one salient command: On or off. It would be awesome if it could be ring sized eventually.
- The motor/motors wouldn’t need to be powerful. I imagine a 250W motor would be plenty to keep you coasting (remember, no acceleration bonus).
- Wouldn’t need a huge battery. Acceleration from stop is a huge drain.
- Board could be super stealthy.
- Esc wouldn’t need to be too “smart” and would hopefully keep cost down.
- Let’s you still push the board around when you want to.
Concerns:
- No dedicated remote exists yet. Cruise control can be implemented in firefly and vesc.
- Rolling resistance needs to be minimum. Since the board has no brakes, a one way ratcheting transmission system would be ideal. Like most bikes can’t pedal backwards, only forwards.
- Please add more, there has to be lots of problems I’m not accounting for.
I’m just an idea guy… I lack the programming capabilities to make this work. I do feel that this product could be made with one motor, a small battery, and be very fun and affordable. Anyone want to play around with this concept over the winter with me?
Forewarning, if I don’t get positive feedback here I’m making a dedicated thread