Aims

The aims of the course are to:

• To apply engineering principles to bicycle design
• Propose and develop an individual project on one aspect of bicycle design
• Develop project skills

Content

The project will investigate the mechanical, structural and materials design considerations for the bicycle.

1. Introduction (joint sessions).

An introductory session will put the bicycle in its historical perspective and discuss the specification of various types of bicycle.

2. Mini-projects (students work individually).

Students will undertake a mini-project on one aspect of bicycle design. Mini-projects will be directed through the use of timetabled supervision. Project can be theoretical, numerical or experimental, or a mixture of all three. Discussion between students is encouraged. It is expected that students will have controlled access to laboratory facilities and technical support. Possible project ideas include:

• Optimisation on cost or performance
• Tyre rolling resistance
• Wheel design
• Aerodynamics
• Human factors
• Bearing and chain performance
• Fork and frame design
• Fatigue failure of frames and spokes
• Power matching

The project will be split into phases with corresponding reports and feedback:

• Very rough draft mini-project plan
• Literature review
• Finalised project plan
• Presentation
• Final report