CES 2022: Hyundai presents the Mobile Eccentric Droid (MobED)

Conspicuously inconspicuous but versatile: Hyundai's MobED essentially consists of a flat, rectangular body with four large, individually suspended and steerable wheels. These are intended to allow for optimal posture and stable movement even on inclined and uneven roads. With this suspension, the platform can freely adjust wheelbase and steering angle, allowing it to navigate complex urban environments—even up or down stairs. Dong Jin Hyun, Head of Hyundai Motor Group Robotics Lab, explains:

“We developed the MobED platform to overcome the limitations of existing indoor guidance and service robots while maximizing their deployability in cities by drastically improving the platform's overall mobility.”

He himself is excited about possible applications and adds:

“We are also looking into the future to assess how potential users of MobED will further expand their need and application for this type of technology."

The central transport plate can always remain horizontal

Equipped with innovative technologies such as an advanced 'eccentric wheel' drive and high-tech steering, braking, and height control systems, the MobED is designed to adapt to various road surfaces and environments. The three motors mounted on each wheel provide power transmission and precise steering of the wheels while simultaneously controlling the overall alignment, allowing the “transport plate” to remain horizontal at all times.

The intelligent arrangement of each wheel with individual power and steering control allows for on-the-spot rotation and movement in all directions, enabling MobED to effortlessly maneuver through tight spaces. The posture control system, based on an eccentric mechanism, stabilizes the position by adjusting the height of individual wheels according to the ground environment. The 12-inch air tires of the MobED absorb shocks and vibrations.

The 2 kWh battery provides up to four hours of driving time

MobED is 67 centimeters long, 60 centimeters wide, 33 centimeters high, and weighs 50 kilograms. Its wheelbase can be extended to 65 centimeters to ensure optimal stability at high speeds, and can then be reduced to 45 centimeters for slow maneuvers in more complex environments. The top speed is 30 km/h and with a battery capacity of 2 kWh, it enables a driving time of approximately four hours on a single charge.

Basis for strollers or logistics or or or…

The MobED is versatile and modular in design and can be used for various applications depending on the device attached. The Hyundai Motor Group believes that the adjustable wheels, compact size of the build, and low vibration make the platform an optimal technical solution for delivery, navigation, and filming equipment. Thanks to its excellent maneuverability, the platform can also be used for service robots that can operate both indoors and outdoors.

MobED can also be used as a mobility aid for elderly or disabled people when the platform is high enough for individuals to board. It is also possible to use it as a stroller or recreational vehicle.

What does this mean?

Four wheels one platform – but all made very intelligently! One can be excited about what will come out of this! A thrilling – absolutely CES-compliant contribution!