Ulik Kahlert, the inventor of the Segway handsfree-steering system, and Steadicam operator and instructor, Chris Fawcett, showed their totally redesigned, 3rd generation camera stabilization Segway System around the Tiffen Booth at NAB. The new model sports wheel covers, improved ergonomics and safety features.

The Steadiseg modification replaces conventional Segway handlebars with a control-stick module between the knees, freeing the rider’s arms to operate camera stabilization systems. The addition of the hard-mount assembly eliminates carrying strain, permitting bulky camera setups (IMAX, 3D rigs, etc.), to be flown for extended periods without fatigue. The Steadiseg is intuitive to ride, and entirely fluid in its movement, allowing dynamic and complex moves to be executed with precision. Stability at all speeds is excellent: ramping effortlessly from a slow interior architectural track to a fast outdoor chase scene, it offers rapid set-ups and delivers stunning results. It’s an awful lot of fun, and the shots look great.

The Hard-Mount Assembly uses a steel articulated arm with 1 translational and 5 rotational degrees of movement that include  extreme high and low- mode possibilities, without obstructing the operator. It’s also exceedingly strong, so you can fly heavy camera packages.

The Fender System gives the Steadiseg a thin 66 cm (26 in) profile in conjunction with the new hard-mount assembly, while the overall height from the ground is low to maximize stabilizer boom-range. The new system has no sharp edges, and the outer fender sections wrap around the wheels to safeguard against accidental contact with surroundings (and NAB attendees).