Canadian company CycleLabs has launched a intelligent gadget for bicycles that is created to support navigate and track routes, and stop theft (+ film).
Launched on crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, the SmartHalo attaches to the handlebars of a bicycle and pairs with a smartphone to provide cyclists several functions.
CycleLabs’ aim was to combine worldwide positioning system (GPS) navigation, exercise tracking, and an alarm technique into 1 device that fits onto any bike.
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The style characteristics a circular display that displays details utilizing a ring of lights. It powers up automatically when it detects movement and turns itself off when left alone.
“SmartHalo connects with your telephone using Bluetooth Minimal Vitality,” said CycleLabs. “There is no on/off button: when the user is away, SmartHalo is in deep sleep mode. As soon as the consumer grabs its bike, the gadget wakes up, thanks to an internal sensor.”
To access its GPS functionality, the user inputs their location into the smartphone app. The advised route is configured and transferred to SmartHalo, which indicates the path to travel employing the lights on the screen.
“Our layout selections have always been focused on simplicity,” said CycleLabs. “We consider present bike GPS are overly difficult, with a screen and maps and every thing. We have selected to go with a minimalist interface that allow our end users to concentrate on what issues most – their ride.”
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Arcs of green light on either side indicate left and proper turns, although a red semi-circle at the bottom prompts the rider to make a U-flip. The total circle illuminates in green when the cyclist has reached their destination.
The gadget tracks details about time, distance, elevation and calories burnt throughout the journey, which can be viewed on the accompanying app.
The SmartHalo also features a created-in alarm method. An inner movement sensor detects when the bike is being tampered with and emits a loud noise to warn off potential thieves.
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End users are recognised by their phones to ensure the alarm doesn’t sound when they are in close proximity. A custom tapcode can also be programmed into SmartHalo so the proprietor can manually flip off the alarm if their cellphone battery is dead.
Call notifications and weather alerts can be displayed on the screen, and an integrated headlight immediately turns on and off when needed. Battery time is estimated at 3 weeks for standard utilization.
“To charge, the user unlocks the merchandise employing a particular crucial – it only will take a number of seconds,” mentioned CycleLabs. “It can then be charged employing USB.”
According to the company, the gadget is completely weatherproof from sun, rain and snow. It incorporates a polycarbonate lens, with a thermoplastic situation and clips.
CycleLabs is aiming to increase CAD\$66,240 (£32,000) in funding by way of Kickstarter to assist put the SmartHalo into manufacturing by the end of 2015.
Other businesses have also lately explored how technologies can improve cycling. For illustration, final December Volvo launched a prototype helmet that delivers two-way communication between the wearer and close by drivers to assist avert accidents.
A lot more lately, a Royal School of Artwork graduate has created bone-conducting headphones that clip to a cycling helmet so the wearer is nonetheless able to listen out for autos.
