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Student Designer
University Product Description and Principal Function(s) 'Switch commuter bike' is a high performance folding bike that hasbeen specifically designed for easy handling in crowded environments, taking up no more space than the footprint of one wheel. 'Switch' promotes sustainable living by encouraging people to use pedal power as their primary mode of transport, creating a healthier environment and life style. Why does the product represent design excellence and why do you believe it deserves an Australian Design Award? 'Switch Commuter bike' offers the riders a fast and reliable bikethat can be folded for convenience. It has been specifically designed so that it is easy to handle in crowded environments taking up no more room than the footprint of one wheel [2]. Switch was developed to address the market need for a functional bicycle primarily targeted at commuters' needs. It enters the market at a time when cycling numbers are high and projected to dramatically increase over the coming years to meet the changing urban environment. Switch is aimed solely at users who want to ride to and from their places of employment. It offers the user the added bonus of taking the bike easily on and off public transport [3], in and out of lifts and the ability to store the bike in a small place at home or in the office when not in use. The design innovation is Switch's ability to fold in one smooth motion making it one of the fastest folding bikes available. Switch does not rely on any structural locking mechanism to fold as the weight of the rider keeps the frame open and rigid. There is a spring loaded ball bearing that stops the rear section of the frame from unfolding prematurely when maneuvering or handling the bike. As our cities grow an increased pressure is being placed on their Resources. Road congestion alone is enough to threaten the livability of cities like Melbourne and Sydney. This congestion carries economical, environmental and social costs. Switch encourages people to cycle rather than drive and is an important step in reducing road congestion. Cycling is a low cost non polluting mode of transport that offers physical exercise and personal fitness that the rider would not normally gain from sitting in a car. Where cycling replaces the use of a motor vehicle it assists in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The choice to cycle improves the riders health and can have an economic benefit on the wider community. Switch is a high specification commuter bike and the design reflects this right down to the materials and finishes chosen. Manufactured from carbon fibre and aluminum, for its high strength and light weight characteristics. The carbon has been used in the upper part of the frame for its shock absorbing ability, creating a more comfortable and smooth ride. Aluminum has been used for the rest of the frame for its strength, ease of manufacture and impact and abrasion resistance in wear areas (where the two parts of the frame lock together). The two materials create a fantastic visual contrast but also compliment each other in performance. Switch was developed to create a visual statement that sets it apart from current commuter and folding bikes on the market. It uses striking materials and contrasting lines that are dynamic and bold. Switch is an innovative new product for personal transportation that combines unique aesthetic and performance qualities. |
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