What Is A Hoverboard? How Does It work?

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what is hoverboard

Wondering what a hoverboard is and why it is popular? Then you will be surprised to know that hoverboards are a $1.8 billion market. Despite the increasing regulations on how and where they should be used, the hoverboard trend doesn’t seem to slow down.

Whether you want to get to work faster and easier or put your kids on a hoverboard to go to school, you need to know a slot of things before actually buying one. Keep reading to find out answers to all your questions.

What Is a Hoverboard?

A hoverboard is also known as a self-balancing scooter, and it is basically a portable electric device that moves on two wheels. These first came into the market during 2015 and have gained a lot of popularity since then. 

These are powered by lithium-ion batteries that are rechargeable with riders standing on the platform between two wheels. The eider has to move forward, backward and right or left to move in any direction they wish. The hoverboard has a series of sensors and pressure pads that can catch the rider’s weight and also prevent them from falling.

What Is A Hoverboard Made Of?

Hoverboards are equipped with varied sensors and components to balance, move and function.

  • Gyroscope: this is a very important component of a hoverboard that can adjust the tilt of the platform to maintain the balance of the rider. This sensor is sometimes also called “gyro scooters.”
  • Microprocessor: These sensors also help in regulating the power rendering on the wheels.
  • Battery: the hoverboard works on lithium-ion batteries storing charge and power. In 4 hours, you can give them full charge, and it will run for 8 miles. 
  • Motor: this receives motor from the logic board and also the power of wheels when tilted.
  • Infrared sensors (IR sensors): Infrared sensors measure the presence of objects, distance, and also other functions.
  • Tilt and speed sensors: it helps in controlling the speed of a hoverboard by measuring how the wheels are turning and communicating with the logic board and gyroscope.
  • Logic board: it helps in processing the data from different sensors and sends this information to the motor. This sensor requires directions and movements to keep the device balanced.
  • Two Wheels: these come in different sizes as per the manufacturer. If you wish to go off-roading using your hoverboard, then look for 8-inch wheels. 
  • Charging port: hoverboards mostly come with a charging port; however, you can also buy these online separately. 

How Do Hoverboards Work?

Moving Forward and Backward

All the sensors of a hoverboard work together to control the tilt and power, so the rider is well balanced, moving, and upright at a controlled speed.

Each hoverboard wheel has its own gyroscope, speed sensor, and tilt. When you hop aboard and tilt backward or forward, the gyroscope signals the board to move in a particular direction. The logic board will send data to the motor, which generates power and rotates the motor for you to move.

More tilt = more speed.

Stopping

Pressure pads and IR sensors located below the foot platform send signals to the logic board when the rider is not tilting. This tells the logic board to stop running the motor, so the board doesn’t move.

Turning

When the rider puts the right leg in front, the hoverboard will move only the right leg. This will turn off the left wheel motor and allow the hoverboard to turn to the left side. Similarly, to turn right, the rider will have to move their left foot in front. You can tilt anyone’s leg forward and move in circles. 

Are Hoverboards Safe?

If used correctly, a hoverboard is a safety device like any other running on wheels. However, there are a few precautions that you should keep in mind.

  • Safety Equipment: there are no regulations anywhere but California, but it is always smart to wear safety equipment, especially when you are a beginner. Knee pads, helmets, wrist guards, and elbow pads can prevent any injury when you ride a hoverboard. 
  • Battery Quality: In some of the past cases, the batteries of hoverboards have exploded because of poor insulation. Since February 2016, hoverboards are now certified by international safety and consulting company UL. Always look for the genuine UL certification on the hoverboard.
  • Small Children: because of their potential for injury and speed, Hoverboards should be kept away from young children. Some boards have a minimum recommended weight of 45-50 lbs and are aged between 5 to 7. A simple fall from a device moving at the speed of 10 mph could seriously injure the small child.

Do Hoverboards Have Additional Features?

One biggest complaint made by hoverboard riders is that their board scuffs and scratches very easily. With limitless silicone, vinyl, and rubber covers, you can make the hoverboard resistant to wear and tear and also change its look. Some hoverboards also feature Bluetooth, LED lights, built-in signals, fog lights, and turn signals.

Are hoverboards legal?

Although hoverboards have gained a lot of popularity, They are not legal in many cities. For example, in New York, hoverboards are illegal even though electric skateboards were made legal in 2020. In the UK, you can only use hoverboards on private property. Thus you will have to check the legal laws in your city or country before riding on hoverboards on the street.

Tips For Beginners

  • Charge your battery fully before heading out. Some batteries come half or fully charged; however, when you go out for practice, make sure to get a full charge.
  • Wear your safety gear to avoid any injuries while you ride the board. Remember to wear your helmet, knee pads, wrist guards, and elbow pads in case you ever happen to take a bad spill.
  • Practice on hard and flat surfaces in open areas. Smooth service will make sure that the battery lasts a long time and you remain well balanced.
  • Avoid going on rough areas and terrains with lots of people and objects. Start by hovering around your street before going on into busy areas. Determine your dominant foot for easy steering. If you are left-handed, go with your left foot and vice-a-versa.

Final Words:

Now that you know what hoverboard is and how they work, Are you ready to hover? Remember to take all the safety precautions, follow legality. If you do not know where to do that, you can always check our tips for beginners.

Happy Hoverboarding!