How does a Hoverboard work?

Our team member Parvinder Singh will Introduce you to the captivating world of hoverboards. These futuristic personal transportation devices have gained immense popularity in recent years, more over the last decade. But have you ever wondered, “How does a hoverboard work?” Delve deep into the fascinating mechanics of hoverboards with our team and uncover the magic behind their self-balancing and motion control capabilities.

A hoverboard, also called a self-balancing scooter, is a personal transportation device primarily equipped with a battery – heavily used for fun activities by kids.

However, some adults might use a hoverboard for short-distance commutes on busy town streets.

One thing We want to make clear to our readers who are unfamiliar with hoverboards is that despite the name, hoverboards do not hover above the ground like in the movie “Back to the Future.”

Instead, hoverboards operate on wheels (Two wheels – one on each end) and use a combination of sensors, including gyroscope sensors, microprocessors, and electric motors, to provide self-balancing and motion control.

Below is a simplified explanation of how a hoverboard works:

1. Gyroscopic Sensors

You might be astonished to know that a hoverboard has built-in gyroscopic sensors that constantly monitor the tilt and angle of the board, which balances the rider on the board and keep the hoverboard steady. 

Gyroscopic sensors detect any changes in the rider’s balance and movement and help maintain the rider’s equilibrium, thus holding ride stability.

2. Microprocessors

The processor is a computer’s brain, and the microprocessor is a hoverboard’s brain.  

The data which is collected and saved in gyroscopic sensors are sent to microprocessors, which process the information and calculate the necessary adjustments to maintain balance and improve the ride quality.

3. Electric Motors

Most modern hoverboards we have reviewed and tested here at the Parentaldaily office typically have two electric motors, one for each wheel. These motors are responsible for propelling the device forward or backward. The two motors on each side make the hoverboard more powerful + better control + maintain balance.

Also, the differential Steering allows the hoverboard rider to turn smoothly, thus enhancing stability and maneuverability.

The motors receive instructions from the microprocessors based on the rider’s movements and adjustments needed to maintain balance.

4. Battery and Control System

You should know that Hoverboards come attached with Rechargeable batteries, usually lithium-ion batteries, all of these power hoverboards.

The built-in attached battery pack supplies electricity to the motors and the control system, including microprocessors and other components. You have to take great care of the battery and recharge it regularly to keep your hoverboard in a working state.

We recommend hoverboard users to check their hoverboard battery regularly and keep it lit to green. Also, follow the recommended weight guidelines, as the higher weight means shorter ride times per charge, so keep that in mind. 

5. Tilt and Pressure Control

The rider leans slightly in the desired direction to move forward or backward. 

The gyroscopic sensors detect this change in tilt, and the microprocessors send signals to the motors to start moving the wheels in the corresponding direction. The more the rider leans, the faster the wheels spin.

6. Turning

So what our team at Parentaldaily has observed is that when riders want to turn, they apply pressure with their feet on the front or rear footpads. 

Try yourselves, and you would also do this as it is a natural thing to do and also the right one.

This pressure is detected by embedded sensors in the hoverboard that relay the information to the microprocessors, which then adjust the speed of the wheels on either side to create a turning motion.

7. Self-Balancing

Our team here at Parentaldaily has already explained how gyroscopic sensors work and balance the hoverboard; hoverboard users must know that the gyroscopic sensors and microprocessors work together to balance the hoverboard.  

We have noticed in our tests while riding the hoverboard (Our Software head Parvinder singh was riding the hoverboard while we were testing it)  the rider leans forward or backward, the sensors detect the shift in balance, and the microprocessors adjust the power to the wheels to compensate and prevent the board from tipping over.

This sharing of information by censors to microprocessors balances the hoverboard and makes it stable to ride.

8. Foot Pressure Sensing

Besides the gyroscopic sensors, hoverboards often incorporate pressure-sensitive foot pads. These pads detect the amount of pressure applied by the rider’s feet. 

By distributing weight unevenly on the foot pads, the rider can trigger specific movements or functions, such as accelerating, decelerating, or activating additional features like built-in lights or Bluetooth connectivity.

9. Safety Features

Many hoverboards have different number of safety features to ensure user safety while riding the hoverboard. Whether you are a child, a teenager, or a grown-up adult, hoverboard companies must ensure their devices’ safety and stability to avoid accidents.

According to us, safety features must include speed limiters that prevent the board from exceeding a certain speed, battery management systems to protect against overcharging or overheating, and even LED indicators to warn of low battery or potential malfunctions.

10. Learning Curve

We agree with our tech and software head writer Parvinder, who expresses that initially operating a hoverboard may require some practice.

Also, it is a well-known reality that as new riders become accustomed to the device, they develop a sense of balance + muscle memory to control speed smoothly, turns, and other maneuvers. 

Manufacturers often provide beginner modes or training settings that limit acceleration and sensitivity, allowing users to adapt to the hoverboard’s movements gradually.

11. Energy Efficiency

Hoverboards are designed to be energy-efficient, maximizing the battery life and extending the riding range. The microprocessors and control systems are optimized to minimize power consumption, and regenerative braking systems are sometimes employed. 

These systems convert the kinetic energy generated during braking into electrical energy, which is then fed back to the battery for recharging, thus improving overall efficiency.

Continued Advancements

Our Software and Technology Parvinder Singh says that as hoverboard technology evolves, newer models may feature advancements such as enhanced stability systems + improved battery life + integrated GPS tracking, and smartphone app connectivity for personalized settings and firmware updates. 

He suggests that all these advancements will undoubtedly improve future hoverboards’ stability, safety, and riding quality.

It’s important to note that hoverboards’ exact mechanisms and components may vary across different brands and models. Safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and using the device in appropriate areas, should always be followed when riding a hoverboard.