It all started when we (a group of 3) decided to go away from the usual approach taking a mundane problem. We wanted to do something creative, something that can have an impact. Something 'Aha!'

The first step in the process was to generate ideas. We generated a pool of 300 ideas using the techniques of brainstorming and observation.

Diverging!

From the 300 ideas, the next task was to select one idea. One idea which we would be developing for the next 2 years. We chose the parameters of feasibility, viability and innovation of the project.

Converging!

In India, it is estimated that one 2- wheeler accident takes place every 2 minutes. The total number of active 2 wheeler vehicles on Indian roads as per the data in 2016 is 10 crores. There were 4,80,652 accidents in calendar year 2016 according to Ministry of Road Transport and Highways claiming 1,50,785 precious lives and leaving another 4,94,624 persons gravely injured. Out of the total accidents, two wheeler were responsible for 1,62,280 accidents killing 44,366 and injuring 1,53,060 people. To reduce this number of deaths and injuries considerably, we have devised an innovative solution to protect the of 2 wheeler riders.

Companies are coming with all kinds of complex and advanced solutions like gyroscopic stabilization, self balancing bikes and so on. But they are costly and cannot be retrofitted.

We came up with many solutions from pneumatically actuated to an electronic system. Optimization of the concepts generated in this step led us to the current system which is the state of art for accident prevention mechanism on existing vehicles.

The system is a seamless integration of 3 systems namely – electronic, mechatronic and mechanical. Electronic system detects the fall angle by using a gyroscopic sensor which can be customized according to the need of the user. The signal generated triggers the mechanical system which comes in contact with the ground preventing contact of the bike rider. The two wheeler attains a final position taking into consideration the human aspect, ultimately protecting the rider and bike parts. The whole system from angle detection to bike rider stabilization takes place in 0.4 seconds time frame

The prototyping phase involved getting our hands into manufacturing. Right from using Lathe Machine to laser cutting to welding.

The learning was tremendous. We learned to operate the lathe machine, welding, milling and grinding machines.

Approaching, pitching and pursuing to the suppliers were some of the soft skills learnt in the process.