Industrial designers at Purdue University have fulfilled every kid's dream--they've created a tricycle that can shift into a bicycle, making them an instant 'big kid'.
"The Shift bicycle features a swinging rear hub, which allows the rear wheels to pitch in and out. The hub allows for the rear wheels to provide a larger or smaller stance depending on the amount to weight on the rear wheels. An internal belt keeps the drive train away from the children for safety." - designapkin.com
Transformer-Inspired Tricycles
The Purdue University Bicycle Saves Parents Money
Trend Themes
1. Transforming Tricycles - The design of tricycles that can shift into bicycles presents an opportunity for innovative products that cater to both young children and their growing needs.
2. Swinging Rear Hubs - The development of swinging rear hubs opens up possibilities for adjustable stances and improved stability in various modes of transportation.
3. Internal Belt Drive Systems - The incorporation of internal belt drive systems in bicycles and tricycles provides a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional chain-driven mechanisms.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Manufacturing - The transforming tricycles trend creates a disruptive innovation opportunity in the toy manufacturing industry, allowing companies to offer multifunctional and adaptable products that captivate children's imagination.
2. Bicycle Manufacturing - The adoption of swinging rear hubs and internal belt drive systems can revolutionize the bicycle manufacturing industry, providing enhanced versatility and safety features for both children and adult riders.
3. Urban Mobility Solutions - The concept of transforming tricycles, swinging rear hubs, and internal belt drive systems can be applied to urban mobility solutions, offering compact and efficient transportation options for city dwellers.