Product design portfolio

Introduction

Bikeye is an innovative augmented reality (AR) glass designed specifically for bicycle riders to provide a comprehensive understanding of their surroundings, particularly focusing on what is happening behind them and what is approaching from the rear. This case study outlines the development journey of Bikeye, from its inception to the creation of the first prototype, highlighting the challenges faced and the design solutions implemented.

Problem Statement

Cycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation, but it comes with significant safety risks. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, over 800 cyclists were killed in traffic crashes in the United States alone. A major contributor to these accidents is the lack of awareness of vehicles approaching from behind. Traditional mirrors and shoulder checks are insufficient, often causing cyclists to lose balance or miss crucial details.

Design Process

Research and User Insights

The initial phase involved extensive research to understand the needs and pain points of cyclists. Surveys and interviews with cyclists revealed common concerns:

12.4%

of Americans engage in cycling for transportation or recreation

40%

feeling unsafe due to the inability to see vehicles approaching from behind

15%

increase in near-miss incidents due to loss of balance and focus for turning heads.

Ideation and Concept Development

Based on these insights, the concept of Bikeye was born.
The primary objectives were:

• Provide real-time visual alerts for approaching vehicles.

• Ensure the device is lightweight, unobtrusive, and easy to use.

• Integrate AR technology to overlay important information without distracting the rider.

Prototyping

The design team developed several sketches and 3D models to visualize the concept. The first prototype included:

• A lightweight AR glass frame with a built-in rear-facing camera.

• A small, high-resolution display embedded in the lens to show real-time video and alerts.

• An intuitive user interface that highlights approaching vehicles using visual cues without obstructing the rider’s forward vision.

Solution

The Bikeye prototype successfully addressed the core challenges identified during the research phase. Key features included:

• Rear-View Awareness: The rear-facing camera provided a clear view of what was happening behind the cyclist, displayed on the AR lens.

• Proximity Alerts: The system used sensors and computer vision to detect approaching vehicles, displaying visual alerts and directional cues to the rider.

• User-Friendly Design: The AR glasses were designed to be lightweight and comfortable, ensuring they could be worn for long durations without causing discomfort.

Challenges and Learnings

Despite the promising prototype, the project faced significant challenges, primarily related to budget constraints. Key learnings included:

• Technical Complexity: Developing an AR system with real-time processing capabilities is technically demanding and costly.

• User Comfort: Ensuring the glasses were lightweight yet robust enough to house all necessary components required significant engineering ingenuity.

• Market Viability: While the concept was well-received, further development and testing required substantial financial investment.

Conclusion

The development of Bikeye, though halted at the prototype stage due to budget constraints, showcased the potential of AR technology in enhancing cyclist safety. The insights gained from this project highlight the importance of continued innovation and investment in cycling safety solutions. The Bikeye prototype stands as a testament to what can be achieved with a user-centric design approach and cutting-edge technology.

Final Thoughts

Bikeye represents a significant step towards making cycling safer and more enjoyable. While the project faced financial hurdles, the knowledge and experience gained set a strong foundation for future endeavors in the realm of augmented reality and cyclist safety. With adequate funding and support, innovations like Bikeye can transform the landscape of urban cycling, making it safer for everyone on the road.

Citations:

Introduction

Problem Statement

Design Process

Research and User Insights

The initial phase involved extensive research to understand the needs and pain points of cyclists. Surveys and interviews with cyclists revealed common concerns:

Cycling Popularity and Risks

According to the National Household Travel Survey, approximately 12.4% of Americans engage in cycling for transportation or recreation .

In 2019, there were over 800 cyclist fatalities in traffic crashes in the United States (NHTSA) .

Lack of Awareness:

A survey conducted by the League of American Bicyclists found that 40% of cyclists reported feeling unsafe due to the inability to see vehicles approaching from behind .

Over 50% of cycling accidents involving motor vehicles occur when cyclists are unaware of vehicles approaching from their rear .

Current Solutions and Their Limitations:

Traditional bicycle mirrors provide limited visibility, with only about 60% of surveyed cyclists using them regularly .

Cyclists who frequently check their surroundings by turning their heads have reported a 15% increase in near-miss incidents due to loss of balance and focus .

Potential Market for AR Solutions:

A report by the Consumer Technology Association suggests that the wearable technology market is expected to reach $73.27 billion by 2023, with a growing interest in AR devices .

65% of surveyed cyclists expressed interest in AR technology if it could enhance their safety and riding experience .