User input for vehicle control

Abstract

A user input for controlling acceleration of a vehicle. The user input has a movable member capable of deflection by a user such that a degree of deflection corresponds to a specified velocity commanded by the user. The correspondence between the degree of deflection and the specified velocity may include a plurality of zones, each zone characterized by a distinct sensitivity that may be capable of customization for a specific user. The user input may also include a neutral position of the movable member, wherein a substantially sudden motion of the movable member to the neutral position causes a slewed slowing of the vehicle.

1 . A vehicle propelled by a motorized drive for transporting the vehicle across a surface, the vehicle comprising:
 a user input for controlling movement of the vehicle including a movable member capable of deflection by a user such that a degree of deflection corresponds to a specified velocity commanded by the user, the correspondence between the degree of deflection and the specified velocity having a plurality of zones, each zone characterized by a distinct sensitivity; and   a balance-maintaining controller for maintaining balance of the vehicle on the basis of a servo loop governing the motorized drive in accordance with user commands of a specified velocity.   
   
   
       2 . The vehicle according to  claim 1 , wherein the distinct sensitivity of each zone is capable of customized specification by the user. 
   
   
       3 . The vehicle according to  claim 1 , wherein the distinct sensitivity of each zone is capable of customized specification for a specified user. 
   
   
       4 . The vehicle according to  claim 1 , wherein the distinct sensitivity characterizing each zone is acceleration.