‘i Backpack’ Gives New Communication Powers to Cyclists
Could this put an end to cyclist-motorist road rage?
With Soohun Jung’s new invention, cyclists can communicate with drivers in ways that were never possible before. The Korean designer has come up with an ‘i Backpack’, which functions as a rear view mirror, as well as providing break signals, turn signals and a message board.
A tablet is placed in the backpack, and connected with a smartphone, which rests on the handlebars. The two are integrated through a Bluetooth-enabling app. The smartphone works as a rearview mirror, and at the same time, sends messages to the tablet, which displays them for the benefit of drivers and pedestrians.
So, a bright yellow arrow on a blue screen communicates the intention to turn, while block letters reading ‘SLOW DOWN’ indicate the cyclist is hitting the brakes. The app responds to the bicycle’s movements through sensors. Riders can also opt to send friendly messages, such as ‘Have a nice day’, ‘Ride with me’, ‘Thank you’ and ‘Sorry’. It’ll be interesting to explore the i Backpack’s potential to improve motorist-cyclist relations, particularly in cities that aren't especially well-designed for the incorporation of two-wheelers.
Soohun Jung is currently studying product design at the Samsung Art and Design Institute. He has received a number of awards, including two Red Dot Design Winners in 2012 and a Bronze at the D2B Design Fair 2012. The i Backpack was shortlisted in IF 2013.
[via PSFK]
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