I always wondered why our bike lights weren’t powered by the cycling of a bicycle itself. In addition to that, I’ve always wanted my back light to turn on as I braked. This is the challenge that I’ve set up for myself for my Physical Computing final.
In terms of research, there are a few projects out there that address pedal-powered lights.
Project Aura
surg2011.tumblr.com
A couple undergrads from CMU created pedal powered lights for night riding. They are using a hub dynamo to generate power for the LEDs.
Dosun J-1 Safety Pedal
http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2009/10/pedal-mounted-pedal-powered-lights/
These petals have LEDs embbeded in them that are powered by the spinning motion of the axles inside.
Recyclelight
http://www.recyclelight.me
Created by current ITP students, Becky Kanzansky and Alexander Kozovski, these lights turn on when you brake. Instead of dynamo hubs, she uses 2 geared motors connected to each brake caliper to generate the power.
Interaction
Ideally, the interaction with the light will be minimal. As you brake, the lights will turn on. Initially I was thinking that there would be a switch of some sort on the brake bars themselves. The lights would be activated by the hands of the rider squeezing. After reading about these other projects, I realize that the interaction could simply be from the bike itself.
Next Steps
I emailed Becky to see if I can speak to her about her project and get some insights.
I need to look into dynamo hubs and geared motors and see what would be best.
I also don’t want to completely throw out my idea of using the handles somehow as triggers.