Yamaha unveiled a motorcycle prototype that allows the vehicle not to fall even at extremely low speeds. The technology developed by the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer should help reduce the number of motorcycle accidents. Called the Advanced Motorcycle Stabilization Assist System (AMSAS), the system can be implemented on already launched motorcycles without modifying the frame or major components.
Yamaha technology prevents bike from falling at low speeds
To demonstrate the technology, a Yamaha YZF-R25 was used, which is powered by 250cc DOHC inline-twin with an offset cylinder. What sets it apart for the production model is the 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that works in conjunction with steering actuators.
Project lead Akitoshi Suzuki says:
When starting or stopping, the steering actuator fitted to the front wheel aids stability, and from there, up to about 3 mph, the steering actuator connected to the handlebars takes over.
According to Akitoshi, the bike “can move at walking speeds without tipping over, regardless of the rider’s skill level.”
There’s an engine at the front of the bike that allows the bike to stay balanced even when it’s stationary. According to Yamaha, their system works “by utilizing the dynamics of an inverted pendulum, like balancing a broom upside down on the palm of your hand”. With the help of additional actuators on the handlebars, fine corrections are made to keep the bike upright, similar to when someone holds a bike upright without pedaling.
technology development
The Advanced Motorcycle Stabilization Assist System (AMSAS) technology was developed using concepts that Yamaha already had, such as Motobot (2015) and MOTOROiD (2017). The former was an autonomous motorbike robot and the latter a prototype motorbike that used AI and self-balancing technology. Akitoshi says:
The Research and Development of AMSAS technology started with the idea of bringing the technologies and know-how acquired through the development of these two models.
Yamaha’s goal is to end fatal motorcycle accidents by 2050. To that end, the company is working on new technologies to predict obstacles and assist in defensive or evasive maneuvers. Akitoshi says the company is only halfway there with AMSAS and the next steps are to miniaturize the components before entering the mass production stage. The company reveals that it intends to take the AMSAS technology to other types of vehicles, in addition to motorcycles.