Bike-mounted sensor could boost the mapping of safe cycling routes
a year ago
- #cycling-safety
- #technology
- #urban-transport
- Many people avoid biking due to fear of car collisions.
- Current cycling route safety assessments rely on reported accidents and subjective cyclist feedback.
- The ProxiCycle sensor objectively measures close passes by vehicles to assess street safety.
- Developed at the University of Washington, the sensor replaces a bike's handlebar plug and uses infrared sensors.
- Data is transmitted via Bluetooth to a smartphone app, which identifies close passes by vehicles.
- Initial tests in Seattle showed the sensor's accuracy in detecting dangerous streets.
- Larger-scale studies are planned to validate the technology in other cities.
- The goal is to improve cycling safety and encourage more people to bike.