Our Crowdfunding Groups
Raider Lock aims to create an innovative automated bike storage station with high factors of safety, ergonomics, custom aesthetics, and a high-quality user experience that responds to the needs and requirements of the community at Texas Tech University. These objectives have been approached through clear definitions of a successful solution and the stakeholders involved. Initially, the research of prior art, surveys, interviews, and several group discussions were the gateway to work collaboratively on this task. Also, a record of all communications, budget constraints and schedules have been compiled as a framework for the transition towards Design II. Upon the completion of the project, the Raider Lock will represent a secure dependable option for storing bicycles on campus long or short term. Raider Lock hopes to be a step forward for Texas Tech on becoming a bike-friendly campus, and gain recognition from this infrastructure.
From left to right: Princewill, David, Bernardo, Yeonjin. Emmanuel, Jesus, Matthew, Kaleb
From the beginning, we focused on a layout similar in size to a bus stop that would allow commuters to securely store their bike for the day without carrying their own locks or other equipment. The system is entirely self contained, with motorized locking systems operated by solar power. This will allow the system to be portable by means of a forklift to wherever it is most needed. No hardwiring or special setup required between deployments!
Later iterations included guards to block access to quick detach front wheel hubs, a rigid floor to allow for forklift arms, and an automated system of actuated arms that will close around the frame of a bicycle at the push of a button. These representations below are an example of the vision that our team and the Department of Parking and Transportation hold for the Raider Lock, though this fundraiser is targeted towards our pilot unit described later.
Our final digital mockup of what we plan to produce at the end of this semester is shown below. The roof and solar power panels have been dropped from our plans to streamline our budget and timeline. Each pillar allows for a bicycle on either side. Once the user swipes a valid Texas Tech ID, simple UP and DOWN buttons will actuate the silver arms at the discretion of the user to close around the frame of the bicycle. With the frame held in place by both arms and the front wheel behind the protective shield, the bicycle is secure.
You are covering the cost of the electronics and controls for one locking pillar.
