The path to a sustainable “Vision Zero” future requires innovation and re-envisioning of nearly every facet of transportation as we know it. While electric and autonomous vehicles have thus far dominated the conversation, other less car-centric solutions warrant addressing. First, however, we must address and build up critical infrastructure solutions to make these alternative options more viable and attractive.
Role
Industrial Designer
Duration
8 weeks
Materials
316 stainless steel, ABS
Dimensions
Length: 295 cm
Width: 328 cm
Height: 260 cm
Breaking a Trend
For many people in the US, cars are the best mode of transportation even if their commute isn’t very far.
This leads to congestion, pollution, and high rates of traffic fatalities in urban-centers.
The lack of infrastructure for alternative transport makes adoption of new technologies challenging. The goal is to develop a solution which establishes necessary infrastructure and addresses community concerns.
Safety
Finding a safe place to store micromobility devices is a major challenge for users.
Leaving them outside brings a high risk of theft, but there’s often no other choice. Schools, office buildings, and other commercial areas may refuse citing lack of space, and even some apartment buildings are hesitant due to the fire risk from low quality batteries in cheaper devices.
Brainstorming Solutions
With quick sketches, I explored different form factors and approaches to safely and securely store bikes, scooters, and skateboards.
Design Language
I wanted to embrace the natural beauty of raw materials while also conveying a simple and elegant language. Swooping curves flow and make dynamic forms.
Concepts
This first concept set the direction for the project. Especially in sunnier climates, a solar panel provides both shade and clean power. Docks on one side securely lock bike and scooter frames, while racks on the other side provide storage for skateboards.
In the second revision, I relaxed the angle of the solar panel and redrew the form for the legs to better fit in with the intended design language. I also experimented with a different style of skateboard rack.
Rapid Prototyping
A quick cardboard model was used to get a sense of size, ergonomics, and user interactions.
1:6 Scale Model
Laser cut acrylic and 3D printed PETG were used to build a 1:6 scale model.
Colors, Materials,
and Finishes (CMF)
Micromobility as
Infrastructure
SunPedal aims to increase micromobility adoption by introducing a plug-and-play solution for bringing necessary infrastructure to cities. By providing safe storage of electric micromobility devices in the from of a network of public chargers at users’ destinations, SunPedal makes the experience of owning and operating micromobility devices easier and more convenient.