Build Self Balancing Bicycle and Uni cycles

In today's world it is easier to imagine Robots walking or crawling but it would be much be much better if they can ride a bicycle! . This is possible in various ways but the only solution which pumps in my mind is Self Balancing Bicycles.A self-powered unicycle that balances itself in three dimensions, is an interesting problem in robotics and control theory.The concept is similar to what we use in Segway.

IIT Madras studenst tried to build self balancing , self driven bicycle as there final year project (shown in Video below).It would be great project idea for students of Robotic and Mechanical Engineering.

How much it costs?
All together the components, in single unit retail quantities, cost about $1500. They are:

• A microcontroller board from BDMicro featuring the Atmel AVR Mega 128. $125.
• A gyroscope and acceleromoter by Rotomotion. $149.
• The OSMC motor controller by Robot Power. $199.
• 40 NIMH cells, made into nice packs by Robot Marketplace. $218.
• A Magmotor S28-150. $299
• The Whyachi TWM3M gearbox. $345.
• A 16-inch bicycle rim with spokes. $35 from your local bike shop. 100 psi tire, which makes turning slightly easier.
• A custom-machined hub.
• A GT2 5 mm pitch belt, and 28 and 72-tooth pulleys.$21, $26 and $14.
• Some 1" diameter tubing, TIG-welded together. $40
• A guard for the upper pulley, machined from black Acetal plastic.
• Some spacer bushings to center the wheel.
• A combination dead man's switch and key. $12.
• A unicycle seat. $24.

How to build your own?

Building a Balancing Scooter

Related Links:

Watch Self Balancing Motorbike on How Stuff Works Video section.