PRODUCT OVERVIEW

During this next phase of our work, we focused on developing our alpha prototype concept into a beta prototype to demonstrate and test functionality across the attributes and design drivers we identified in our earlier two phases.

In our case, we developed a bike helmet lock that attaches to standard bikes that allow users to consistently and conveniently access their bike helmet whenever they need it on the go. When being first installed, the base frame is attached to the top tube of a bike frame using standard pipe clamps, and a multi-strap and insulated belt is looped over to hold the helmet in place, locked with a combination lock on the other side.

DESIGN CHANGES BASED ON DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION

Specifically, in this phase we defined key parameters, ran experiments and validation tests, and learned from iteratively enhancing the features on our prototype. These tests and observations during the development process is what helped us move from our initial alpha prototype which had a filled frame, aluminum clamps, and a dial locking mechanism to a more lightweight and mechanically functional beta prototype. While our beta prototype was able to demonstrate functionality that met some of our identified design drivers our tests also revealed shortcomings that we have detailed in our design recommendations to inform our next iteration. More details on our development process and parameters, proof-of-concept, validation tests, and final design recommendations can be found in the detailed sections below.

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