Long before we actually had e-readers, Douglas Adams recorded the audio portion of this video in 1993 for his publisher, Voyager Expanded Books. Now there's a competition underway challenging animators to illustrate Adams' prophetic essay, and this entry by Gavin Edwards is a standout. Link -via Buzzfeed
Comments (0)
S.O.F.T.!?
Also, the direction of motion would need to be picked with some care. In most of the shown applications, the convex leading edge is moving in such a way as to create an on-going pinch hazard with the static side of the escalator. If something (foot, clothing, shopping bag, etc) were set there and brushed the side of the escalator, it would be pushed back until it wedged between the side of the escalator and the step. Maintenance and possible pain with lawsuit ensue.
Lastly, in some applications the ability to reverse the escalator is desired. For instance, at stadiums, train stations and other locations where there is a tidal flow of people (rush hour, before the game and after it, etc), where it wouldn't be practical.
Still a very cool idea. Very creative and great to see someone thinking about these things!