Michelin's 'Bikesphere' uses red lasers to create a protective circle around cyclists, making them undeniably visible to drivers. Very rarely do cars give bike riders the respected distance the law requires of them when over taking cyclists, resulting in an estimated 5,000 preventable accidents annually. Bikesphere aims to combat this by using its lights as a proximity detector, ensuring cars give cyclists the proper amount of space when passing.
The bike lights rest comfortably on the cyclist's handle bars and use sensors to detect when a vehicle is approaching. As the vehicle gets closer, Bikesphere will intensify its laser projection to alert the driver, highlighting how much space is needed to safely overtake.
The Bikesphere was created to coincide with Michelin's 'trendy drivers' movement, which aims to "change the habits of drivers and reduce accidents on the road."Photo Credits: designboom, digitaltrends
Space-Highlighting Bike Lights
Michelin's ‘Bikesphere’ Protects Cyclists with a Red Ring of Lasers
Trend Themes
1. Proximity-detecting Bike Lights - The Bikesphere uses sensors to alert drivers and cyclists of each other’s presence, leading to safer roads and innovative safety features.
2. Laser-projected Safety Lights - Bikesphere’s laser projection technology creates a circle of light around cyclists, making them more visible to pedestrians and drivers alike and inspiring innovation in the cycling safety product market.
3. Technology-enabled Cycling Safety - Bikesphere’s use of sensors and lasers highlights the potential for technology to create innovative safety features in the cycling industry, spurring growth and innovation in the cycling safety product category.
Industry Implications
1. Smart Cycling Accessories - Companies that specialize in creating sensors and laser projection technology could create innovative products in the smart cycling accessory market, attracting cycling enthusiasts and safety-conscious consumers alike.
2. Automotive Safety - Bikesphere’s technology could be adapted for use in the automotive industry, creating innovative safety features for cars and inspiring growth in the automotive safety category.
3. Cycling Infrastructure - Bikesphere highlights the need for increased attention to cycling safety and infrastructure, leading to innovative changes in road design and cycling infrastructure with better usage of technology.