Lantern is a touch-activated bike light. Indicating a turn on a bicycle to a motorist at night can be hazardous. Lantern is a compact battery operated LED signal light that allows the cyclist to indicate their intention to turn without removing their hands from the bars through a touch activated switch and produces a bright, blinking light that is easily visible to motorists.
Challenges
Commuter cycling increased 262% in New York City from 2000 to 2010.
‘Failed to look properly’ was attributed to the car driver in 57% of serious collisions and to the cyclist in 43% of serious collisions at junctions.
A motorist turning across a path of cyclist is a common cause of an accident
Market research
Pre-existing turn signal bike lights require the user to take their hand off the handle bar to activate the button at the tip of the bar. These steps could be eliminated by a touch sensor.
Prototyping
Lantern runs on an Adafruit toggle switch PCB, which is powered by a 3 volt CR-1620 coin-cell battery. Once the circuit is triggered by anything conductive, it activates a blinking LED. There are two sets of 3-D printer housing; one for the appreance model, and another for the working prototype, which is the size of the inner diameter of most standard handle bars.
Final
Leather loops / straps for easy carrying on keychains and backpacks.
Friction fit / Lantern fits snuggly in most handlebars.
Touch activation / a conductive cooper ring acts as the on/off button.
Bright LED / Orange blinking LEDs that are rated 20 lumines of brightness.
Lantern can be activated with the slighest touch, which means it can be activated without letting go of your handle bars.
Lantern's rugged construction is made to be durable against all conditions.
Lantern comes in select safety colors, for visibility
