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Rockrider Babel_ Thesis Project
Hello everyone,
I've been a silent reader of Pinkbike for a long time, but today I’ve decided to write a post for the first time to share something that means a lot to me: my thesis project. Please forgive my poor article-writing skills in advance, and blame Chat GPT for any translation errors.
So, long story short, last June I graduated with a master's degree in transportation design with the presentation of this project. As a continuation of a prior essay on creative AIs, I had to address the question: "As a designer, how can I normalize the aesthetics of generative design while promoting its utilization in a mobility object? »
This project showcases how we could seize creative AI as an opportunity to change our production and consumption models :
BABEL_ is a solution for relocating the production of full-suspension bicycles within the framework of a sustainable consumption cycle. By standardizing frame tubes and connecting them via 3D-printed and generatively designed lugs, we not only enhance the competitiveness of environmentally conscious materials like aluminum but also provide users with the opportunity to enjoy a tailor-made product that fits their unique physique and riding preferences.
This project is not an engineering exercise, so it's important to understand that all these bike concepts are created to illustrate an innovative approach. Nevertheless, even though the calculations may need further refinement, I strive to develop logical and realistic concepts. This applies to the geometry definition and customization system, as well as the construction and assembly of the frame.
Beyond beautiful visuals, my primary goal was to develop a vision for the future of mountain biking, one in which eco-design and user-centricity are at the heart of the approach. It's also a vision for the development of AI within our field, where the aim is not to replace the designer but to enhance their capabilities through collaborative work.
To answer our initial question: With these bikes, we make generative design a symbol of responsibility, sustainability, and performance. In line with these values, the bikes proudly exhibit their uniqueness, which is their strength.
If you are interested or intrigued by the project, I invite you to take a look at its full presentation. In it, you'll find the journey of the two users for whom I designed these bikes, several visuals and realization details, further explanations of the system, and hopefully, answers to all your questions. Click on this link to access it: https://www.behance.net/gallery/182419975/ROCKRIDER-BABEL_-Master-Thesis
Thank you for your interest, I am looking forward for reading your bike nerds feedbacks
Author Info:
Member since May 25, 2022
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Donc d'un point de vu graphique le projet est incroyable, mais d'un point de vu technique j'ai l'impression que tu veux complexifier et fragiliser le vélo. Est ce que tu en as discuté avec des ingés?
Désolé pour la réponse tardive et merci de ton intérêt envers le projet.
Les réponses détaillée à toutes tes questions se trouvent dans la version complète du projet, que je t'invite à consulter quand ta connexion te le permettra. Néanmoins, je peux brièvement t'éclairer ici :
Il s'agit en effet d'une idée originale, que j'ai développé dans le cadre de mon diplôme (Master en Design Mobilité à Strate, école de design). J'ai également bénéficié de conseil de la part de designers pour le développement, dont le Lead Designer de Rockrider.
Les connecteurs de tubes ne sont pas en plastique mais en aluminium, imprimés en 3D par la technique de frittage poudre. Ils sont conçus par un procédé que l'on appelle "generative design", qui permet de calculer la forme des pièces de sorte à ce qu'elles répondent à toutes leurs contraintes, tout en utilisant le moins de matière possible. L'assemblage avec les tubes se fait par collage. Il s'agit d'une technique qui a déjà fait des preuves, comme tu peux par exemple le voir sur les vélos de la marque Atherthon Bikes.
Néanmoins, ce projet est une démonstration de design, ayant pour but de présenter un nouveau mode de production, distribution et consommation du vélo. Le principe systémique du projet est donc fonctionnel, mais les calculs précis des pièces n'ont pas été réalisés avec des ingénieurs, car ce n'était pas la vocation de cet exercice. On admet donc que ce projet est techniquement possible, mais dans l'état pas mécaniquement juste.
J'espère avoir répondu à tes interrogations
Au plaisir,
Mathieu.