The Intermodal Bike

Multi-modal Integration of cycling mobility through product and process innovations in bicycle design.

Period

2010-2014

General Info

Applied research program

Typology

Funded by the the European Union within the 7th Framework Programme

LED Team

Francesca Tosi (Scientific Responsible) - Department of Architecture DIDA - University of Florence

Alessandra Rinaldi (Scientific Coordinator), Alessia Brischetto (Collaborator) - Department of Architecture DIDA - University of Florence

Alessandro Belli (Project Director) - Urban Technologies, Italy

Partnership

Trilix - ITALY

ATAF - ITALY

Urban Technologies - ITALY

University of Florence - Department of Architecture DIDA

Ticona - GERMANY

Maxon Motors - SWITZERLAND

LPP Ljubjana - SLOVENIA

Collaborators

Grazia Tucci and Valentina Bonora - University of Florence - DICEA Dep., Laboratory of Geomatics for Conservation GECO

Vincenzo Cupelli, Giulio Arcangeli, and Marco Petranelli - University of Florence - Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Health Services Research Section

Abstract

The research project, funded by the European Union within the 7th Framework Programme, was aimed to design a folding bike, super-compact and super-light with electrically assisted pedaling, that is an efficient means of transport for the urban mobility.

The work starts from the idea that the synergy between the bicycle as a means of urban transport and public transport systems (train, tram, metro, bus) and / or private means of transport (taxi, car) can increase the modal share of bicycle on the total of urban and suburban travels, and also can have an effect to discourage the use of private cars in city centers.

LED provided acceptable range of possible posture configurations, to ensure maximum pedaling efficiency, to protect the spinal column, neck and arms from the effects of stressing, and to ensure the effectiveness and control of the vehicle.

Furthermore, it was evaluated and optimized the product usability as perceived and real comfort and pleasure, both during the pedaling action and that transportation, and in relation to the product context of use.