London design studio MAP has developed a minimum compass that pairs with a smartphone app to stage cyclists via the city (+ slideshow).
BeeLine was launched by design and style duo Barber and Osgerby’s inventive consultancy MAP, and has been effectively crowdfunded by way of Kickstarter.
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The plastic-encased circular device has a silicon strap that clips onto the top tube of the bike or the handlebars.
When the consumer has set their finish purpose in the companion app, BeeLine utilizes the phone’s GPS to give directions to the rider.
“Many of us can relate to journeys when we commence cycling, only to end a number of minutes later to examine the map on our phone,” explained MAP’s Mark Jenner.
The LCD interface features a slightly rounded arrow that points in the direction of the final destination, and also shows the distance to the cyclist’s goal.
The consumer can then pick their very own route via the city employing the compass as a rough manual.
“We felt this cease-start off type of journey, following stringent directions, was taking the enjoyable out of cycling and one of the primary reasons we started getting close to the city on our bikes: the freedom,” mentioned Jenner.
“We wanted to develop a gadget, that guided us, but nevertheless place us in handle of our journey and encouraged us to uncover new and intriguing routes.
BeeLine is developed to be shockproof and rainproof, with a battery that lasts all around 4 weeks. The device’s adjustable strap and aluminium buckle allows it to be clipped to keys or a bag when not in use.
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The £60,000 funding objective has been surpassed, with 25 days of the Kickstarter campaign still to go at the time of creating.
Fellow London startup Onomo has also just lately launched a campaign for a similarly minimum compass attachment, which would use flashing lights to offer directions to cyclists.
MAP’s previous tasks incorporate a kit of “constructing blocks” aimed at simplifying the creation of internet-connected goods, a collection of wall storage goods for the bathroom and a create-your-personal laptop kit.
