InSync

Cycling Safety Wearable Technology

InSync

Cycling Safety Wearable Technology

Index

InSync

Cycling Safety Wearable Technology

Project Background:

InSync is a smart cycling vest designed to change the way cyclists interact with their environment. Harnessing the power of tactile communication, it focuses on introducing a novel approach to cycling safety and user experience. By leveraging insights from neuroscience and biomimicry, It aims to expand the cyclist's perceptual landscape, introducing an additional layer of tangible perception to the user through this fusion of technology and human-centred design

Project Type

Academic

(4 Months)

Academic

(4 Months)

Academic

(4 Months)

Academic

(4 Months)

Methodologies

Ergonomic Analysis

Story Boarding

Physical Prototyping

User Testing

Market Analysis

Rapid Iterative Testing & Evaluation (RITE)

Tools

Arduino

Figma

Miro

Arduino

Figma

Miro

This Project has been selected for LCC Accelerate Programme

LCC Accelerate’s fully funded creative business incubator programme has been designed to support recent graduates to take their creative business idea to the next stage.

Supported by experienced professionals, expert advisors and successful industry entrepreneurs, the programme will enable you to accelerate your ideas and strengthen your expertise as a creative entrepreneur.

Link for LCC Accelerate

Problem

2 Cyclist are killed every week in the UK.
4,056 Cyclist Seriously Injured per year
Number of cyclist have increased by 50% since 2004.

Report Link

Problem

2 Cyclist are killed every week in the UK.
4,056 Cyclist Seriously Injured per year
Number of cyclist have increased by 50% since 2004.

Report Link

Primary Research - I

Problem Identification for Cyclist

Problem

2 Cyclist are killed every week in the UK.
4,056 Cyclist Seriously Injured per year
Number of cyclist have increased by 50% since 2004.

Report Link

Primary Research - I

Problem Identification for Cyclist.
What environmental factors impact cyclist safety?
What are the primary safety concerns of cyclists?

Self Riding Experience

Romit’s Experience

High Reliance on auditory Clues, especially for the rear side which also affected most of the decision making.
Didn't feel safe to look back all the time to check approaching vehicles. Mostly relied on sound clues.
Having the rear side as the blind was making it hard to analyse approaching vehicles, especially when there is no separate cycle track

Slavi’s Experience

Decision-making based on speed, space, cars, vehicles on the roads and road markings.
Cautious from cars 70% of the time.
Understanding my location about other road objects as participants

Slavi’s Experience

Decision-making based on speed, space, cars, vehicles on the roads and road markings.
Cautious from cars 70% of the time.
Understanding my location about other road objects as participants

Interview Insights

Cyclists may not be completely protected. There aren’t enough dedicated cycling lanes, so cyclists may have to travel on the same path as other vehicles especially buses which is not safe for them.

Commuting Apps may not be the best option for cyclists as they are designed more for vehicular convenience.

Problem Identification from self Riding Experience & Interviews

👂🏻Reliance on Auditory Cues

In urban cycling, where there's heavy traffic and frequent lane changes, relying solely on sound cues for rear awareness can be risky due to the multitude of environmental noises and distractions.

📲 Inadequate Commuting Apps (existing are glitchy)

Many commuting apps prioritise vehicular convenience over cyclist safety and efficiency. This can lead to suboptimal route recommendations and limited support for cyclists navigating urban environments, potentially compromising their safety and overall experience.

👀 Limited Visual Cues from Approaching Vehicles

Without dedicated cycling lanes or clear separation from other vehicles, cyclists may struggle to visually assess approaching vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in areas with heavy traffic or complex road layouts.

🚏 Limited Protection for Cyclists

Sharing the road with larger vehicles poses significant safety risks for cyclists, as they lack the protection afforded by cars. In the absence of dedicated lanes or sufficient infrastructure, cyclists may face a higher risk of accidents and injuries.

Problem Identification from self Riding Experience & Interviews

👂🏻Reliance on Auditory Cues

In urban cycling, where there's heavy traffic and frequent lane changes, relying solely on sound cues for rear awareness can be risky due to the multitude of environmental noises and distractions.

📲 Inadequate Commuting Apps (existing are glitchy)

👀 Limited Visual Cues from Approaching Vehicles

🚏 Limited Protection for Cyclists

Sharing the road with larger vehicles poses significant safety risks for cyclists, as they lack the protection afforded by cars. In the absence of dedicated lanes or sufficient infrastructure, cyclists may face a higher risk of accidents and injuries.

Problem Identification from self Riding Experience & Interviews

👂🏻Reliance on Auditory Cues

In urban cycling, where there's heavy traffic and frequent lane changes, relying solely on sound cues for rear awareness can be risky due to the multitude of environmental noises and distractions.

📲 Inadequate Commuting Apps (existing are glitchy)

👀 Limited Visual Cues from Approaching Vehicles

🚏 Limited Protection for Cyclists

Sharing the road with larger vehicles poses significant safety risks for cyclists, as they lack the protection afforded by cars. In the absence of dedicated lanes or sufficient infrastructure, cyclists may face a higher risk of accidents and injuries.

Secondary Research

What is the current state of the cycling safety market?
What government initiatives exist to promote cyclist safety?
What are the common pain points cyclists experience in terms of safety?

Common pain points and problems cyclists face in urban London

Ideation - I

Enhancing Spatial Awareness

Lack of Dedicated Cycling Infrastructure
London's cycling infrastructure has historically been insufficient, with limited dedicated cycling lanes and poorly connected routes. This lack of infrastructure leads to conflicts with other road users and increases the risk of accidents. According to a report by the London Assembly Transport Committee, there is a significant need for improvement in cycling infrastructure to ensure the safety and convenience of cyclists (London Assembly Transport Committee, 2017).
Safety Concerns at Junctions and Intersections
Junctions and intersections are particularly hazardous for cyclists in London, with a significant number of accidents occurring at these locations. Research conducted by Transport for London (TfL) indicates that a large proportion of cycling accidents involve collisions with other vehicles at junctions, highlighting the need for improved safety measures and infrastructure design (Transport for London, 2020).
Challenges with Navigation and Route Planning
Navigating urban environments can be challenging for cyclists, especially those unfamiliar with the city's road network and cycling infrastructure. A study published in the Journal of Transport Geography found that cyclists often face difficulties finding safe and efficient routes, particularly when infrastructure is fragmented or poorly signposted (Ahas et al., 2010).

Lack of Dedicated Cycling Infrastructure

London's cycling infrastructure has historically been insufficient, with limited dedicated cycling lanes and poorly connected routes. This lack of infrastructure leads to conflicts with other road users and increases the risk of accidents. According to a report by the London Assembly Transport Committee, there is a significant need for improvement in cycling infrastructure to ensure the safety and convenience of cyclists (London Assembly Transport Committee, 2017).

Challenges with Navigation and Route Planning

Navigating urban environments can be challenging for cyclists, especially those unfamiliar with the city's road network and cycling infrastructure. A study published in the Journal of Transport Geography found that cyclists often face difficulties finding safe and efficient routes, particularly when infrastructure is fragmented or poorly signposted (Ahas et al., 2010).

Safety Concerns at Junctions and Intersections

Junctions and intersections are particularly hazardous for cyclists in London, with a significant number of accidents occurring at these locations. Research conducted by Transport for London (TfL) indicates that a large proportion of cycling accidents involve collisions with other vehicles at junctions, highlighting the need for improved safety measures and infrastructure design (Transport for London, 2020).

Lack of Dedicated Cycling Infrastructure
London's cycling infrastructure has historically been insufficient, with limited dedicated cycling lanes and poorly connected routes. This lack of infrastructure leads to conflicts with other road users and increases the risk of accidents. According to a report by the London Assembly Transport Committee, there is a significant need for improvement in cycling infrastructure to ensure the safety and convenience of cyclists (London Assembly Transport Committee, 2017).
Safety Concerns at Junctions and Intersections
Junctions and intersections are particularly hazardous for cyclists in London, with a significant number of accidents occurring at these locations. Research conducted by Transport for London (TfL) indicates that a large proportion of cycling accidents involve collisions with other vehicles at junctions, highlighting the need for improved safety measures and infrastructure design (Transport for London, 2020).
Challenges with Navigation and Route Planning
Navigating urban environments can be challenging for cyclists, especially those unfamiliar with the city's road network and cycling infrastructure. A study published in the Journal of Transport Geography found that cyclists often face difficulties finding safe and efficient routes, particularly when infrastructure is fragmented or poorly signposted (Ahas et al., 2010).

Lack of Dedicated Cycling Infrastructure

Challenges with Navigation and Route Planning

Safety Concerns at Junctions and Intersections

Lack of Dedicated Cycling Infrastructure
London's cycling infrastructure has historically been insufficient, with limited dedicated cycling lanes and poorly connected routes. This lack of infrastructure leads to conflicts with other road users and increases the risk of accidents. According to a report by the London Assembly Transport Committee, there is a significant need for improvement in cycling infrastructure to ensure the safety and convenience of cyclists (London Assembly Transport Committee, 2017).
Safety Concerns at Junctions and Intersections
Junctions and intersections are particularly hazardous for cyclists in London, with a significant number of accidents occurring at these locations. Research conducted by Transport for London (TfL) indicates that a large proportion of cycling accidents involve collisions with other vehicles at junctions, highlighting the need for improved safety measures and infrastructure design (Transport for London, 2020).
Challenges with Navigation and Route Planning
Navigating urban environments can be challenging for cyclists, especially those unfamiliar with the city's road network and cycling infrastructure. A study published in the Journal of Transport Geography found that cyclists often face difficulties finding safe and efficient routes, particularly when infrastructure is fragmented or poorly signposted (Ahas et al., 2010).

Lack of Dedicated Cycling Infrastructure

Challenges with Navigation and Route Planning

Safety Concerns at Junctions and Intersections

Ideation

Enhancing Spatial Awareness

Secondary Research

What is the current state of the cycling safety market?
What government initiatives exist to promote cyclist safety?
What are the common pain points cyclists experience in terms of safety?

Improving Spatial Awareness

Reduced Collision Risk

Cyclists with better spatial awareness are more adept at identifying potential hazards, such as vehicles, pedestrians, and road obstacles, thereby reducing the risk of collisions. A study by Walker et al. (2014) found that cyclists with enhanced spatial awareness exhibited safer behaviours and were less likely to be involved in accidents.

Improved Negotiation of Traffic

Cyclists with heightened spatial awareness can navigate through traffic more effectively, anticipating the movements of other road users and positioning themselves strategically to avoid conflicts. A study by Schleinitz et al. (2019) demonstrated that cyclists with better spatial awareness exhibited greater confidence and proficiency in interacting with traffic.

Enhanced Route Planning
Spatially aware cyclists can make more informed decisions when planning their routes, avoiding high-traffic areas, hazardous junctions, and roads with poor infrastructure. Research by Lovelace et al. (2017) highlights the role of spatial awareness in route selection and its impact on cycling safety and comfort.
Increased Safety at Junctions and Intersections
Cyclists with improved spatial awareness are better equipped to navigate complex junctions and intersections, where a significant proportion of cycling accidents occur. A study by Schepers et al. (2014) suggests that interventions aimed at enhancing cyclists' spatial awareness can mitigate the ri
Reduced Collision Risk
Cyclists with better spatial awareness are more adept at identifying potential hazards, such as vehicles, pedestrians, and road obstacles, thereby reducing the risk of collisions. A study by Walker et al. (2014) found that cyclists with enhanced spatial awareness exhibited safer behaviours and were less likely to be involved in accidents.
Improved Negotiation of Traffic
Cyclists with heightened spatial awareness can navigate through traffic more effectively, anticipating the movements of other road users and positioning themselves strategically to avoid conflicts. A study by Schleinitz et al. (2019) demonstrated that cyclists with better spatial awareness exhibited greater confidence and proficiency in interacting with traffic.

Enhanced Route Planning

Spatially aware cyclists can make more informed decisions when planning their routes, avoiding high-traffic areas, hazardous junctions, and roads with poor infrastructure. Research by Lovelace et al. (2017) highlights the role of spatial awareness in route selection and its impact on cycling safety and comfort.

Increased Safety at Junctions and Intersections

Cyclists with improved spatial awareness are better equipped to navigate complex junctions and intersections, where a significant proportion of cycling accidents occur. A study by Schepers et al. (2014) suggests that interventions aimed at enhancing cyclists' spatial awareness can mitigate the ri

Ideation to improve Spatial Awareness

Crazy 8

Ideation to improve Spatial Awareness

Case Studies

The "Third Eye" is a wearable device designed to augment user's spatial awareness by introducing an additional dimension of perception. Inspired by the concept of a rearview mirror, this design aims to provides users with real-time, panoramic views of their surroundings, enhancing their ability to navigate urban environments safely .

Design Concept: Third Eye

Prototype 1

The Third Eye

Prototype 1

The Third Eye

Two phases of prototype testing were conducted to enhance cyclist safety and spatial awareness. The "Third Eye" prototype utilised household items to provide panoramic views for cyclists. Field testing in leisure and commuter settings informed refinements for seamless integration into daily cycling activities.

Components Used:

Cycle Helmet:
The base structure of the prototype consists of a standard cycle helmet, providing stability and support for the device.
Cloth Hanger (Support):
A cloth hanger is repurposed to serve as a support mechanism, attaching the prototype securely to the cycle helmet.
Phone Case:
A phone case is utilized to hold the phone, which acts as a mirror at the end of the prototype. The reflective surface of the phone simulates the functionality of a rearview mirror.

First Testing

Location: Field testing conducted at Burges Park.
Goal: Assess prototype functionality and user interactions in real-world scenarios.
Activities: Engaged in walking, jogging, and other routine movements within the park.
Observations: Examined users' experiences and perceptions of the prototype during different physical activities.
Insights: Gained insights into prototype adaptability across varied activities.
Feedback: Obtained valuable feedback for further improvements and refinements.
Outcome: Hands-on testing facilitated understanding of user needs and informed prototype development process.

Testing insights

Takes time to get Used to:

The prototype took a while to get used to by the users. At first, it felt more like a struggle to get adjusted to it.

Weight and Adjustments:

Comfort and Fit Issues:

Learnings

Learning Curve:

The prototype took a while to get used to by the users. At first, it felt more like a struggle to get adjusted to it.

Technological use can add more flexibility:

Sharing the road with larger vehicles poses significant safety risks for cyclists, as they lack the protection afforded by cars. In the absence of dedicated lanes or sufficient infrastructure, cyclists may face a higher risk of accidents and injuries.

Second Prototype Testing: Commuter-Focused Evaluation

Focus Shift: The second phase of testing shifted focus to evaluate the practical application of the Third Eye prototype in real commuting scenarios.
Objective: To assess tangible differences and advantages introduced by the Third Eye in everyday commuting situations, compared to scenarios without the prototype.
Testing Approach: Users were tasked with performing specific basic tasks while utilising the Third Eye prototype, allowing for a comparative analysis with scenarios where the prototype was not in use.
Goals:
- Evaluate how the Third Eye influences efficiency, safety, and overall experience during the commute.
- Identify practical utility and effectiveness of the device in diverse commuting scenarios
Methodology: Engaged users in routine commuting tasks with and without the prototype to discern its impact on their daily commute.
Expected Outcomes: Insights from commuter-focused testing to inform refinements and enhancements for seamless integration of the Third Eye into daily commuting activities.

Second Prototype Testing:

Commuter-Focused Evaluation

Focus Shift: The second phase of testing shifted focus to evaluate the practical application of the Third Eye prototype in real commuting scenarios.

Objective: To assess tangible differences and advantages introduced by the Third Eye in everyday commuting situations, compared to scenarios without the prototype.

Testing Approach: Users were tasked with performing specific basic tasks while utilising the Third Eye prototype, allowing for a comparative analysis with scenarios where the prototype was not in use.
Goals:
- Evaluate how the Third Eye influences efficiency, safety, and overall experience during the commute.
- Identify practical utility and effectiveness of the device in diverse commuting scenarios
Methodology: Engaged users in routine commuting tasks with and without the prototype to discern its impact on their daily commute.
Expected Outcomes: Insights from commuter-focused testing to inform refinements and enhancements for seamless integration of the Third Eye into daily commuting activities.

Pro's

Enhanced Awareness of Approaching Vehicles:
One notable advantage was the heightened ability to locate vehicles approaching from the rear. The third eye facilitated a faster response compared to normal cycling, potentially contributing to improved safety on the road.

Object Identification:
The prototype demonstrated proficiency in object identification, offering the cyclist an additional layer of information to navigate their surroundings effectively.

Non-Distracting Front Vision:
Importantly, the prototype did not distract from the cyclist's front vision. This characteristic is crucial as it ensures that the additional sensory input does not compromise the cyclist's ability to focus on the immediate path ahead.

Facilitated Turnarounds:
The third eye proved beneficial when executing turnarounds, providing enhanced capability to identify approaching vehicles from behind, thereby aiding in smoother and safer manoeuvres.

Improved Sense of Surroundings:
Overall, users reported a heightened sense of their surroundings, contributing to an increased level of alertness and awareness during the cycling experience.

Con's

Comfort and Fit Issues:
A significant drawback surfaced in the form of discomfort and a loose fit of the prototype. Users found it challenging to wear the device for extended periods, potentially limiting its practicality for long-duration cycling sessions.

Weight and Adjustments:
The prototype's weight emerged as a concern, leading users to experience the need for frequent adjustments during their cycling activities. This issue could potentially impact the cyclist's comfort and concentration on the road.

Placement of the screen:
The user observed that the prototype was centrally positioned, as opposed to a slightly off-centre placement. However, this central positioning resulted in an obstruction caused by the user's reflection, which occupied approximately 30% of the screen. Consequently, this reflection impeded peripheral vision during testing.

Final Insights

Interference with Vision

Interference
with Vision

During testing, it was observed that the prototype's placement and design somewhat interfered with users' vision, potentially obstructing their view of the road ahead.

Balancing Visibility and Functionality

Finding the right balance between enhancing rear visibility and ensuring unobstructed vision for the cyclist's primary direction of travel emerged as a key challenge.

User Feedback

User feedback highlighted the importance of optimising the prototype's design to minimize vision obstruction while maximizing safety benefits.

Iterative Design Process

This insight prompted an iterative design process focused on refining the prototype's form factor and placement to maximize functionality without compromising overall visibility and safety for the cyclist.

Ideation 2

Sensory Substitution & Sensory Addition

Ideation 2

Sensory Substitution & Sensory Addition

Moodboard and Inspiration

Concept Ideation

Literature Study

Sensory Substitution

Sensory substitution involves using one sensory modality to convey information that is typically received through another sensory modality. For example, converting visual information into auditory or tactile information for individuals with visual impairments.

Lloyd-Esenkaya, T., Lloyd-Esenkaya, V., O’Neill, E. et al. Multisensory inclusive design with sensory substitution. Cogn. Research 5, 37 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41235-020-00240-7
Eagleman, D.M. and Perrotta, M.V. (2023) ‘The future of sensory substitution, addition, and expansion via haptic devices’, Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 16. doi:10.3389/fnhum.2022.1055546.
Shull, P.B., Damian, D.D. Haptic wearables as sensory replacement, sensory augmentation and trainer – a review. J NeuroEngineering Rehabil 12, 59 (2015).

"Just give the brain the
information and it will figure it out"

-Paul Bach-Y-Rita

Case Studies

Brainport

BrainPort is a technology whereby sensory information can be sent to one's brain through an electrode array which sits atop the tongue.

Neosensory

Neosensory, a technology company pioneering non-invasive brain-machine interfaces to help people with hearing loss, just added a new product to its lineup of hearing solutions.

Wayband

Wayband is a haptic navigation wristband that gently guides you to your destination using vibration, without the need for visual or audio feedback.

Voice

Run a blog, list job openings, or manage your event schedule.

Prototype 2

Haptic Vest

Design
Idea 2

Haptic Vest

Stage 1:

Enhancing Cyclist Spatial Awareness with Proximity Sensing

Problem Identification

Blind Spot Threat: Cyclists face a significant threat from vehicles approaching from their rear side due to limited awareness, posing safety risks.

Inspiration: Biomimicry Approach

Echolocation Analog: Drawing inspiration from animals like bats and dolphins, which use echolocation to map their surroundings, we seek to implement a similar concept for cyclists.

Design Concept Features

Proximity Sensors: Utilise sensors capable of detecting objects in the cyclist's vicinity, providing real-time feedback on their proximity and location.

Haptic Feedback: Translate proximity data into haptic feedback signals, allowing cyclists to perceive the presence and location of objects without visual reliance.

Potential Benefits

Enhanced Safety: Empower cyclists with the ability to map their surroundings in 3D space, reducing the risk of collisions with approaching vehicles and other obstacles.

Accessibility: Provide a non-visual means of spatial awareness, benefiting cyclists with visual impairments or those riding in low-light conditions.

Research: Human Body Sensitivity Mapping through Haptic Feedback

As part of our research project, we conducted a comprehensive body-mapping exercise to explore and understand the human body's sensitivity to haptic feedback. Participants were equipped with vibration motors linked to an Arduino platform, enabling controlled and customisable vibration stimuli delivery.

Exercise Details:

During the exercise, participants were instructed to identify and label regions on their bodies where they experienced varying intensities of vibration. The vibration motors emitted regulated stimuli, allowing participants to discern high and low vibration intensities accurately.

Exercise Details:

Methodology:

Equipment Setup:

Each participant received a vibration motor connected to an Arduino platform, ensuring consistent and precise vibration delivery.

Instruction:

Participants were guided to identify and label regions of their bodies experiencing high and low vibration intensities.

Colour Coding:

Three colours were assigned to denote different vibration intensity levels, aiding in the visualization and analysis of sensitivity patterns.

Testing 1: Goal:
Identify the sensory intensity of vibration Motors

Testing 2: Increasing Complexity

The Prototype was built with three proximity sensors Pointing in three different directions away from the body. The proximity sensors are then connected to the vibration motors through an Arduino.

Proximity Sensor

Insights

Upper Body Sensitivity

Analysis revealed that the upper body, excluding the abdomen, exhibits heightened sensitivity to vibrations.

Common Sensitivity Regions

The back, chest, and neck areas were consistently identified as highly sensitive to haptic stimuli across all participants.

Significance of Upper Body

The prevalence of sensitivity in these upper body regions underscores their importance in haptic perception.

Placing Vibration points

Dividing into Zones
V1, V2, V3 = Vertical Zones
H1, H2, H3 = Horizontal
Selecting Points according to body Mapping result

Building Prototype

Cutting Cloths in a shape of a vest

Compiling arduino

Compiling arduino

Testing Vibration Motor

Testing Haptic Motor

Attaching Arduino

Organising Arduino

Attaching Vibration Motors

Attaching Haptic Motors

Testing 1: Goal: Identify the sensory intensity of vibration Motors

Testing 2: Increasing Complexity

Proximity Sensor

Testing Process

Initial usability tests focus on gestural inputs for proximity sensors.
Despite initial technical issues, debugging efforts improve sensor performance.
Users successfully identify directions of ten gestural prompts, indicating prototype's functionality.
Subsequent study tests prototype's navigational capabilities via blindfolded challenge.
Proximity sensors placed at shoulder height require consideration of object height for detection.
Results inform further development and optimisation of prototype design.

Insights

Gestural Recognition:

The optimised prototype showed high accuracy in recognising gestures via proximity sensors, enabling reliable interpretation of ten prompts.

Navigational Efficacy:

Users navigated blindfolded challenges successfully, relying solely on haptic feedback for spatial awareness, showcasing the prototype's potential in orientation without visual or auditory cues.

Sensor Placement
Impact:

Placing sensors at shoulder height influenced object detection relative to height, emphasising the need for optimisation in varied scenarios.

User Adaptation:

Placing sensors at shoulder height influenced object detection relative to height, emphasising the need for optimisation in varied scenarios.

Stage 2

Integrating Biomimicry

Ideation Board

Feature 1: Sensory Navigation

The cyclist sets up his destination on the navigation app, ready to connect it to his smart cycling vest.

Selecting the café destination on the phone's map app Connected to the Smart Vest

As the cyclist rides through the city, a subtle vibration on the left side of the vest signals an upcoming left turn.

The cyclist smoothly takes a left turn at the intersection, guided by the haptic feedback from the smart vest.

A gentle vibrations alerts the cyclist to an upcoming turns as he rides through streets.

The cyclist arrives at the café, smiling and satisfied with the smooth, hands-free navigation provided by the smart vest.

Feature 2: Hive Mind Feature

Max approaches a blocked route in a busy city while wearing a smart vest.

Max presses a button on their vest to mark the blocked area for others

A 100-meter safety Virtual perimeter is established around the construction site on a shared map

Later, another cyclist approaches the same area, unaware of the roadblock ahead.

The second cyclist receives a haptic alert from their smart vest, warning them of potential danger.

The cyclist changes their route smoothly, avoiding the construction site thanks to the smart vest’s warning.

Cycling Workshop

Exploring Group Dynamics

Cycling Workshop

Exploring Group Dynamics

Workshop Description

We conducted a group riding exercise to explore the dynamics of collective riding experiences. The exercise comprised two distinct parts aimed at understanding how multiple riders interact with each other and addressing challenges in implementing this approach effectively.

Exploring Group Riding Dynamics

Leisure Cycling Session

Location: Conducted in a park setting.
Focus: Investigated how groups navigate and coordinate during relaxed cycling activities.
Guiding Principles: Explored factors influencing group dynamics, including communication, leadership, and mutual awareness among riders.

Urban Cycling Segment

Route: From Burges Park to the London College of Communication.
Objective: Contrasted dynamics observed during leisure cycling with complexities of riding in urban settings.
Analysis: Examined decision-making processes and group behaviour in diverse riding contexts.

Research Insights

Varied Dynamics: Insight into group riding dynamics in different contexts.
Decision-Making Factors: Understanding influences on group behaviour, including communication and leadership.
Future Strategies: Critical for developing technologies or systems to accommodate and enhance collective riding experiences.

Cycling Track

Navigating in the Park

Navigating on the Streets

Insights

Slow Decisions:

Delays in decision-making, possibly due to communication challenges, disrupted the fluidity of the ride, emphasising the need for streamlined processes.

Unequal Experiences:

Heterogeneous skill levels resulted in disparate experiences, affecting overall satisfaction within the group.

Chaos:

Cumulative effects of communication issues, uneven speeds, unequal experiences, and confusing decisions resulted in chaotic moments during the ride.

Uneven Speeds:

Diverse cycling abilities led to uneven speeds, creating gaps and impacting the cohesion of the group.

Confusing Decisions:

Multiple decision-makers led to confusion and indecision, impacting the clarity of direction, route, and stops.

Communication Challenges:

Group cycling exhibited difficulties in effective communication, attributed to ambient noise, varied speeds, and a lack of clear channels.

Ideation 2: Flock Riding

Inspiration: Harmonious flight patterns of birds

Objective:
- Foster synchronised network among cyclists within a group
Key Features:
- Utilises technology for dynamic speed calculation and monitoring
- Identifies deviations from group's average speed
- Employs haptic feedback mechanisms for non-verbal communication
Functionality:
- Subtly nudges cyclists exceeding or falling below average speed
- Promotes unified and coordinated riding experience
Enhancements:
- Integration of heart rate monitor or input button for emergency alerts
- Allows cyclists to signal fatigue or difficulties to the group
Benefits:
- Enhances group cohesion
- Contributes to a more harmonious and enjoyable collective ride
- Improves safety and responsiveness within the cycling group

Objective:
- Foster synchronised network among cyclists within a group
Key Features:
- Utilises technology for dynamic speed calculation and monitoring
- Identifies deviations from group's average speed
- Employs haptic feedback mechanisms for non-verbal communication
Functionality:
- Subtly nudges cyclists exceeding or falling below average speed
- Promotes unified and coordinated riding experience
Enhancements:
- Integration of heart rate monitor or input button for emergency alerts
- Allows cyclists to signal fatigue or difficulties to the group
Benefits:
- Enhances group cohesion
- Contributes to a more harmonious and enjoyable collective ride
- Improves safety and responsiveness within the cycling group

Objective:
- Foster synchronised network among cyclists within a group
Key Features:
- Utilises technology for dynamic speed calculation and monitoring
- Identifies deviations from group's average speed
- Employs haptic feedback mechanisms for non-verbal communication
Functionality:
- Subtly nudges cyclists exceeding or falling below average speed
- Promotes unified and coordinated riding experience
Enhancements:
- Integration of heart rate monitor or input button for emergency alerts
- Allows cyclists to signal fatigue or difficulties to the group
Benefits:
- Enhances group cohesion
- Contributes to a more harmonious and enjoyable collective ride
- Improves safety and responsiveness within the cycling group

Objective:
- Foster synchronised network among cyclists within a group
Key Features:
- Utilises technology for dynamic speed calculation and monitoring
- Identifies deviations from group's average speed
- Employs haptic feedback mechanisms for non-verbal communication
Functionality:
- Subtly nudges cyclists exceeding or falling below average speed
- Promotes unified and coordinated riding experience
Enhancements:
- Integration of heart rate monitor or input button for emergency alerts
- Allows cyclists to signal fatigue or difficulties to the group
Benefits:
- Enhances group cohesion
- Contributes to a more harmonious and enjoyable collective ride
- Improves safety and responsiveness within the cycling group

Vest Design Mood board

3rd Testing

Goal
- Primary: Evaluate the ability of participants to sense vibrations through clothing.
- Secondary: Explore potential applications for the wearable prototype.
Participants
- 4 participants involved in the testing.
Methodology
- Participants wore the prototype loaded with a repeating pattern of vibrations.
- Feedback gathered regarding the sensation of vibrations through various types of clothing.
Findings
- All participants confirmed sensing vibrations through their clothes, even when wearing thick fabrics.
- Vibrations were described as strong enough to be noticeable but not annoying.
- Richness of suggestions provided by participants aligned with secondary research:
  - Safety applications
  - Urban navigation aids
  - Other potential uses
Limitations
- Participants were not representative of the target audience.
- Testing environment did not simulate real-world conditions where the prototype would be used, as it was conducted indoors.

Prototyping - Stage 3 (High-Fidelity)

Designing Haptic Language

Prototyping - Stage 3 (High-Fidelity)

Designing Haptic Language

Prototyping - Stage 3

(High-Fidelity)

Designing Haptic Language

Haptic motor placement

Paper cutting prototype

Marking Locations

Final Markings

Designing Haptic Language for Cyclists

Scenario: Detection of Approaching Vehicles

Functionality
- Prototype's proximity sensors detect an approaching car.
- Integrated motors set to vibrate in a wave-like pattern as a response.
Purpose
- Foster synchronised network among cyclists within a group
Example
- Rider receives intuitive indication through wave-like haptic input.
- Vibrations represent the presence of an oncoming automobile.
- Steady and regular vibrations indicate vehicle's closeness.
Functionality:
- Subtly nudges cyclists exceeding or falling below average speed
- Promotes unified and coordinated riding experience
Goal
- Establish symbiotic relationship between technology and human intuition.
- Result in a safer and more connected cycling experience.
Benefits:
- Offers physical representation of environmental signals.
- Allows comprehension and response without relying on visual or auditory cues.
- Improves situational awareness for cyclists on the road.

Testing Evaluating Haptic Patterns

Insights

Participants' Ability to Differentiate
Tactile Feedback Signals

Divergence observed in participants' experiences during testing.
One participant successfully identified distinct haptic patterns, while the other encountered difficulties.

Implications for Haptic
System Design

Need to account for differences in clothing thickness and material.
Ensure users can detect and discern haptic patterns regardless of external conditions, such as winter clothing.
Importance of creating a resilient and adaptive haptic system to improve user experience across varied environmental circumstances.

Influence of clothing on
Perception

Clothing worn by participant acted as a padding layer.
Padding distributed vibrations from motors, potentially reducing perceptibility of haptic signals.
Winter gear presented a challenge to haptic feedback in terms of signal attenuation or alteration.