Gizmodo: wheel

Is a Bike With Collapsing Wheels Really a Good Idea?

Mark Wilson — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:20:00 EDT

We know, this pitch of a folding bike with collapsing wheels sounds a tad precarious, but this sequence showing how the wheels fold up is pretty darn convincing:

Well, it's convinced us that the wheels fold up, at least. But when you're weaving in and out of city traffic with just a few pounds of metal and rubber differentiating you from the pavement, that very function will be your primary concern. Trust us. [Treehugger via DVICE]

What the Shit?

Mark Wilson — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 09:48:04 EST

What is this? A clock? Steering wheel? The final, gruesome bout of sponsorship an F1 driver is subjected to before he dies? We're so confused and oh so cold. [Yab Design via Nerd Approved]

Singapore Flyer Strands 173 People for Six Hours, Makes Me Reconsider Riding It

Elaine Chow — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 03:03:00 EST

I'm in Singapore right now and had every intention to ride the Flyer, the world's largest Ferris Wheel. But after it left 173 people were stranded for six hours last night, I'm... hesitant.

The view from the Singapore Flyer, which measures 492 feet tall, is supposed to be astounding, and I'm incredibly curious about their crazy observation pods, each of which is air conditioned and holds 28 people. 28 people per 28 pods that suddenly stopped spinning last night after fires broke out in the control room.

The 173 people had to be rappelled down from the capsules, starting from those closest to the bottom. Those who had to wait the longest for rescue efforts were given food, water and methods of relieving themselves. According to commenters at the Straits Times, those at the top received virtually nothing—since it was much harder to communicate with ground crews from about 42-stories up.

This isn't even the first time the Flyer's broken down since it's grand opening eight months ago. It stopped thanks to a braking system malfunction in July, and got stuck earlier this month for five hours (on Dec. 4) due to bad weather. So, Gizmodo readers, I leave it up to you. Assuming they turn it back on before I leave, should I give it a go? I guess if it does break down, we can all look forward to more pictures of me looking uncomfortable. [Straits Times]

Freewheeler Speaker Can Be Rolled Around: Yeah, That Makes it Worth $21,000

Sean Fallon — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 21:30:00 EDT

The Freewheeler speaker features a frequency response of 52 - 21,000 Hz, a 112dB output, a built-in FM receiver, a battery life of 8 hours and a wireless range of 656 feet— but I'm having trouble figuring out what makes it worth $21,000. Is it the fact that it is roughly the size of a Mazda Miata tire (only thicker) and can be rolled around? Because I'll be dammed if I'm paying that much for something I have to push. Still, 8 morons spent $1000 bucks on that stupid iPhone app so there is no telling what people will drop big money on.

[Made in Design via Technabob]

Octane 120: Arcade Cabinet Meets Kegerator Meets Home Theater

Mark Wilson — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 13:10:00 EDT

What more can we ask for? This September, arcade cabinet manufacturer Dream Arcades will be releasing a sit-down unit that's pretty much every childhood and adult fantasy we've had rolled into one. Built upon a "high-end gaming PC" platform, the Octane 120 displays games through a 10-foot screen with its built-in projector and it will pour you a cold one at your leisure.

Because hidden underneath that black finish, a kegerator keeps your beverage of choice ice cold. Two taps (one by the steering wheel, one in the back) and one cup holder (by the wheel) ensure that no matter where you stumble, it's not too far from more stumbling.

And on top of all that good stuff, the system can play any of its 200 (licensed) bundled PC titles, PS3 racing games through the built-in wheel, or PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii games with the built in joystick (and the aid of a few adapters). Oh, and they squeezed a 5.1 surround sound system in the chassis, too.

Priced at $6,995, it's definitely infringing on real car payment territory. But finally, we can drive drunk without all those pesky tickets and dead people. [DreamArcades via CrunchGear]

M.A.D. Gamepad Features Tiny, Detachable Steering Wheel

Mark Wilson — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 15:20:00 EDT

The M.A.D. Gamepad is a mini USB gamepad that features an even minier steering wheel. We're not sure it's the most practical, ergonomic gamepad we've ever seen, but we sure admire the effort and, we'll be honest, the ludicrousness. Here's what just the wheel looks like:

Actually, with the USB port right on the back, this wheel could make for a pretty snazzy DIY add-on to existing hardware. If only it were mini USB, the modders could really have some fun. Pick yours up for $20. [Brando]

Hamster Wheel Powered Toy Car

Brian Lam — Mon, 05 May 2008 22:23:11 EDT

Here's a old but good idea in honor of Fuzzywuzzymodo: power a toy car by hamster. The Flintstones would approve. I personally think its a better use of hamster power to rig a traditional gerbil wheel with a generator capable of charging a battery which in turn can charge a USB device. I mean, how else are the vermin going to pay their rent? Vid after the jump. [PetGadgets]

USB Pottery Wheel Is Hypnotic, Pointless

Mark Wilson — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 10:39:28 EST

Remember that romantic scene from Ghost with the wet pottery and the steamy groping? This USB pottery wheel mod will never, under any circumstances, re-create such an intense moment by the side of your computer. But it is pretty entertaining to watch a hard drive coupled with sweaty fingers create asymmetrically clay shot glasses. [via everythingusb]

Omni Directional Wheels Make Parallel Parking and Donuts Easy

Mark Wilson — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 14:00:39 EST

While we've already been impressed by Lexus' self-parking car, we're even more intrigued by a good omni directional wheel design. We're not certain of the source behind this video, but whoever worked on this project really needs to get in touch with Ford, Honda and our insurance adjuster ASAP. Just imaging the perfectly round donuts you could create with a full-sized version...or how much more fulfilling cutting off that jackass in the other lane at a 90-degree angle would be. [uberreview]

Porsche 911 PlayStation 3/PC Steering Wheel

Jason Chen — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:00:41 EDT

It's not every day that an actual automaker creates a steering wheel for console gaming, so this Porsche 911 setup is especially awesome. It's a "fully licensed, to-spec reproduction," which means the wheel, the 6+1 gear sticks, and the wireless pedals are all as authentic as you're going to get in your living room. It's all wireless, has force feedback, an extra sequential gear stick, a 100-hour battery life, table clamps and works with your PS3 and PC, plus comes with a Porsche USB stick to show off to the (nerdy) ladies. Available later this year for $350. [Fanatec via Jalopnik]

Skating Robot 'Swims' on Land

msparkes — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 07:44:53 EDT

This is the Roller-Walker, a four-legged robot which can either walk conventionally or skate on retractable wheels. At the end of each leg there is a wheel which can turn 90 degrees to act as a foot. On rough surfaces the robot walks, but if it comes across a smoother surface then it swings out its wheels and skates in a weirdly graceful swimming motion, just like a lycra clad roller-blader. See a video of it in action after the jump.

The Roller-Walker has been constructed by the Hirose-Fukushima Robotics Lab in Japan, and uses considerably less energy when skating than conventional walking robots. I want a car that weaves down the highway like this. [Robots.net]

Microsoft Starts Xbox 360 Racing Wheel Retrofit Program to Prevent Your House From Burning Down

Jason Chen — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 11:40:45 EDT

Similar to the way that the power cables on the original Xbox had problems with possibly catching on fire, the Xbox 360 Racing Wheel can possibly cause your wheel to "overheat" and "release smoke." Thanks to a couple instances of this happening, Microsoft is instituting a program where you can get an AC adapter replacement for your wheel free of charge.

You can still use your wheel now on battery power (wirelessly), but they recommend that you quit using it while plugged in—which means there's no force feedback—until you get the replacement adapter. [Xbox via Microsoft]

Ghetto Wii Wheel From Billet Mechanical Takes You Back to the '80s

Jason Chen — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 18:10:49 EDT

If you thought the plastic-looking Nintendo Wii Mario Kart wheel was a little too classy, Billet Mechanical has the wheel for you. First, it's not even a wheel. It's a Knight Rider-like half steering wheel that has grips on the two ends for gripping. It's not like you're doing hand over hand on regular wheels anyway, but shaping it like a wheel is probably the least you can do for the authentic wheel experience.

Also, this thing is $44.95. We're guessing that some of your money goes into the aluminum and velcro build, which probably feels quite a bit nicer than plastic. The rest? Into the fantastic product design. But hey, if you're ever pretending you're Michael Knight, this and a talking watch with the voice of William Daniels will get you all the way home. [BilletMechanical]

The Ultimate Xbox 360 Racing Setup

Jason Chen — Sat, 26 May 2007 16:20:16 EDT

Just bought an Xbox 360 racing wheel after the price drop last week? Well take a look at this setup reader Robert's friend gave himself for his birthday and drool.

Not only does it have a leather racing chair, the Xbox 360 racing wheel and 5.1 surround speakers, he somehow got the display to split over three Samsung HDTVs. Our only question is how the hell did he do that? We didn't know PGR supported multi-monitors. – Jason Chen

Thanks Rob!

Xbox 360 Racing Wheel Gets Price Drop: $129

Jason Chen — Fri, 25 May 2007 12:00:06 EDT

Hey folks, just a quick note to let you know that the Xbox 360 Racing Wheel just got a price drop to $129. And if you're curious as to whether it's worth it (hell yes), hit up our review from before. – Jason Chen

Product Page [Amazon]

Hamster Powered Paper Shredder

Travis Hudson — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 18:40:43 EDT

See, this is the circle of life. This concept design of a hamster cage almost leaves me speechless. The paper shredder on top of the cage is powered by the hamster and it created the paper that can serve as the hamster bedding. Absolutely amazing is all I have to say about this concept design. Thanks for the work Tom Ballhatchet (awesome name). –Travis Hudson

The Hamster Powered Paper Shredder [technabob]

The Wheel: It's Round Now

Mark Wilson — Sun, 01 Apr 2007 07:59:30 EDT

We know, the "wheel" doesn't look like much to the untrained eye. But just imagine if the technology of roundness was integrated into some of our favorite devices:

The iPod
We may never understand why Apple created the clickblock, but we're thinking the interface would be much smoother without the severe edges.

The Auto
When word of the Horseless Messenger broke a few hours ago, we were excited. Now we're thrilled because it can actually move.

The Male Prophylactic
They've never fit quite right. There are lessons to be learned here...

While we cannot begin to speculate the repercussions of this announcement, we know that the future is a glorious place (with a lot less chafing). – Mark Wilson

Steering Wheel Mounted Cellphone Holder

Jason Chen — Wed, 14 Feb 2007 14:00:44 EST

Although keeping your cellphone close to reach when you're driving is a good idea—one that Jack Bauer himself would approve of—keeping it this close to your wheel is probably bad. How close? How's on the wheel itself sound?

A good idea on paper—when you're drunk—since you'd be talking directly into the phone when it's on speaker, but practically dangerous, as many victims of gab-and-hit can tell you. Has this thing actually made it to production? – Jason Chen

Patent [USPTO via Mad4MobilePhones]

Even PS3 Racing Wheels Don't Have Force Feedback

Jason Chen — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 16:50:58 EST

Thanks to the fact that the standard SIXAXIS controller doesn't have vibration, most game developers aren't going to program in vibration functions to their games on the odd hope that someone will pick up a PS3 Racing Wheel. In turn, PS3 racing wheels—like this one from Logitech—won't have vibration functions either. Oh joy.

Hit the jump to hear what we think about this (warning, self-playing audio).

– Jason Chen

Force Feedback on PS3? Not So Much [1up via Kotaku - Suck it McWhertor]

Xbox 360 Wireless Receiver Reviewed (Verdict: Fantastically Cheap)

Jason Chen — Tue, 05 Dec 2006 19:45:40 EST

Three things are combining to make this Xbox 360 wireless receiver for Windows a fantastic buy. First, it's only $19.99. Second, Xbox 360 controllers like the Wireless racing wheel and even the standard ones are great. Most importantly, DirectX 10 and Vista's "Games for Windows" branding requirement is forcing every game developer to support all Xbox 360 controllers via Direct X. That means just about every game will have real 360 controller support.

As for the device itself, it connects via USB and can handle any combination of four controllers or headsets. Even new controllers like the Mad Catz arcade stick should be supported. Did we mention it's only $19.99? – Jason Chen

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Receiver for Windows Review [IGN via Digg]