Smart Bicycle Load Carriage
The smart bicycle rack was a year-long project focused on improving equipment transport and cycling safety. It features foldable flaps to accommodate various equipment sizes, ensuring user flexibility. A handlebar-mounted remote controls indicator lights and a laser system, enhancing visibility and communication with other road users. Additionally, laser lines projected onto the ground clearly mark the cyclist’s position, significantly improving road safety.
Research
The first phase of this year-long project focused on extensive research, analyzing existing products, and gathering inspiration. This involved both primary and secondary research to understand user needs, market gaps, and innovative safety solutions. Additionally, research was conducted on lighting systems and form analysis of products that aligned with the desired design direction.
​
Primary Research
-
Conducted an online survey to gather insights from cyclists, focusing on commuting habits, safety concerns, and equipment preferences.
-
Interviews with regular cycling commuters to understand real-world challenges, including visibility issues, equipment storage, and interaction with other road users.
​
Secondary Research
-
Reviewed internet articles discussing cycling safety, commuting trends, and technological advancements in bicycle accessories.
-
Explored expert forums where experienced cyclists and industry professionals share insights on safety, transport solutions, and best practices.
-
Analyzed official data on cycling safety and accident reports to identify common risks and design considerations.
-
Studied statistical data on cycling and student commutes, providing context on how safety and transport challenges specifically impact student cyclists.
​
This detailed research formed the foundation for concept development, ensuring the final design addressed real user needs and industry standards.
Sketching & Concept Creations
The research groundwork provided a strong foundation for exploring different ideas and developing initial concepts. This led to the creation of three sketched designs, each refined to a certain level but not fully developed. From these, one concept was carefully selected for further refinement and development. Below is the full folio detailing the first half of the year’s progress.
Concept development
In the second half of the year, the selected concept was refined through aesthetic, usability, and functional improvements.
Key Developments:
-
Aesthetic & Usability Enhancements: Improved form, curvature, and rear lighting for better visibility and appeal.
-
Prototyping & Testing:
-
Structural strength: Successfully supported up to 10kg.
-
Attachment efficiency: Replaced screws with clip-on straps for faster setup (~32 sec).
-
Flap mechanism: Introduced hinge folding and explored tool-free locking.
-
Lighting visibility: Adjusted LED indicators and lasers for better road safety.
-
-
Final Prototype & Manufacturing:
-
Optimized for durability, function, and production feasibility (e.g., pressure die casting).
-
This phase transformed the concept into a practical, tested, and production-ready smart bicycle rack with enhanced safety and usability.
Presentation Boards
The Smart Bicycle Load Carriage is an innovative solution designed to enhance the practicality and safety of transporting goods on a bicycle. This project focuses on a sleek, functional, and adaptable rear-mounted storage system that integrates advanced features to improve the riding experience. The design balances structural integrity, user convenience, and enhanced visibility, making it a valuable addition for cyclists who need a reliable cargo solution.
​​
The prototype development phase follows a meticulous manufacturing process to ensure durability and efficiency. The initial step involves water jetting aluminum plates to achieve precision cutting, followed by TIG welding to secure the frame to the base plate. To enable smooth functionality, hinges are attached to the flaps, and magnets are installed in the frame for secure locking. The prototype is then spray-painted for aesthetics and protection before the internal electronic components are inserted. The final prototype is mounted on a bicycle, demonstrating its full functionality and readiness for testing.
​
The design and features of the load carriage focus on user needs and safety. It is presented in top-down and side views, showing how it can transition between open and closed positions. LED lighting and laser indicators are integrated to enhance night-time visibility, ensuring rider safety. The carriage is designed for flexible storage, allowing different types of loads to be secured efficiently. With a modern and minimalist aesthetic, it blends seamlessly with contemporary bicycle designs while maintaining high functionality.
​
The realization and final concept board showcases a high-quality 3D render of the load carriage in action. The system is mounted on a road bike, demonstrating its sleek integration with the bicycle frame. A secure strapping system ensures that luggage remains stable during rides. The rear lighting system and laser projection add an extra layer of safety, making the bicycle more visible in low-light conditions. This project, developed as part of a final-year design practice, highlights an innovative approach to bicycle cargo management, emphasizing functionality, security, and design efficiency.
