How can we improve safety while biking in urban environments?
BIKESENSE
In collaboration with Mehul Bhargava
Industrial Design | Fall 2023
BIKESENSE is a bike handlebar that communicates with commuters on the road improving cycling awareness for the rider and the surrounding environment. Think of it as a blind spot detection system in your car now made for the bike.
The Problem
Cycling in urban environments presents pressing safety challenges stemming from factors such as heavy traffic, inadequate bike lanes, driver awareness gaps, high population density, and constrained space.
12,450 Crashes
There were 12,450 bike crashes in NYC alone in 2020.
New York City Department of Transportation
Map of limited amount of protected bike lanes in NYC.
Research
Observations, Interviews, Existing “Solutions”
We observed several riders in the city and conducted interviews to better understand their biking experiences and concerns. Alongside gathering insights from industry professionals about biking accessories, we reviewed a variety of products on the market. This comprehensive approach helped us identify existing gaps and opportunities for innovation, allowing us to design a product that truly stands out and addresses the real problems that city riders face.
Existing "Solutions”
Interviews
John
Bikepacker | Hybrid | Drop Handlebar
“When biking in the city I try to use protected bike lanes, mainly because drivers do not see me turning at intersections, which I feel is the area most prone to causing an accident.”
Marcus
Commuter | Fixed Gear | Riser Handlebar
“Cars do not see me at night when biking home from work so I attached a red blinker to my bike, but the battery dies out and requires a tool to replace it.”
Charlie McCorkell
Founder and Owner of Bicycle Habitat (Bike Repair / Store)
“ They are the easiest thing to install. Drop handlebars can be attached to basically any bike and allow for different hand positions which can be beneficial for biking longer distances where your body may become fatigued.”
Adam Hokin
Co-founder of PedalCell (Kinetic Energy Biking Accessory)
”The biking accessory industry is very competitive and so for a successful product it must be intuitive, designed well, and built to last. People are willing to spend a premium if it delivers”.
Conclusions
After interviewing several bike users as well as two industry professionals, we gained a better understanding of the concerns facing bikers in urban environments.
Key Takeaways
Streets in urban environments are unpredictable.
Handlebars are easy to install and require no maintenance.
Bikers must be visible to drivers, especially at night.
Bike accessories should be intuitive and easy to use.
Our Goals
Technology must be reliable.
Be easy and intuitive to install, use, and charge.
Fulfill DOT requirements for bike lighting.
Must be comfortable with a variety of different hand positions.
Ideate and Prototype
Sketches and Scale Models
Ideation explores design possibilities while keeping in mind the needs of the users. Sketching and scale modeling allowed for a broad exploration of different forms ensuring that technology such as ultrasonic sensors could be implemented alongside LED indicators.
Design Concepts
Based on our research, sketches, and early sketch models, we conceptualized and visualized 3 main ideas. This step helped us in deciding what’s right for intent and purpose. After presenting our concepts to the class, they chose concept 1 to continue development.
Concept 1
Drop Handlebar
Concept 2
Square Tube Drop Handlebar
Concept 3
Swept-back Handlebar
Technology
Using a schematic I developed we integrated all the technologies which include LEDs, ultrasonic sensors, haptic motors, and buttons.
Circuit Layout
Works Like Model
System Overview
Final Design
Pogo pins are utilized for both data transfer and power delivery to the handlebars’ electronics. Magnets have been strategically placed to secure the detachable battery pack, ensuring an easy and convenient charging experience utilizing a USB-C charge port.
Detach and Charge
Technical Drawings
Final Model
Semi-functional prototype
The final physical appearance model is made from pla using a 3D printer and conveys the scale, some of the technology, and surfacing of the final design.
Process Book
For a more in-depth look into the process behind BIKESENSE feel free to look through the booklet below.