Bicycle Hacking
Industrial Design
Prototyping
Frugal Design
Individual project
Skills : Metalwork, welding, scrappy prototyping, resourcefulness
Studio duration : 1 week
Context
In a one-week studio, I designed and built a pair of skates using scrap materials sourced from a scrapyard, primarily repurposing bicycle parts. The project challenged me to explore material constraints, structural integrity, and creative problem-solving in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
Challenge
How can discarded materials be reimagined into functional, high-performance products? This project explored the intersection of sustainability and design, pushing the boundaries of upcycling through material experimentation and mechanical ingenuity.
How Might We
How might we transform overlooked or discarded materials into functional mobility solutions while balancing durability, comfort, and design?
The first step was sketching - this lays the foundation for transforming scrap bicycle parts into functional skates. The design explores the integration of wheels, frame stability, and foot support while working within the constraints of reclaimed materials. Considering both ergonomics and maneuverability, the sketch helped visualize key structural elements before prototyping. The goal was to balance durability with a lightweight form, ensuring the skates remained both functional and comfortable. This stage set the direction for material selection and assembly in the next phase.
Drilling holes and cutting metal bars to fit the design requirements
The early stages of assembling the skate frame using reclaimed bicycle parts. The focus was on creating a sturdy yet lightweight structure that could support weight while maintaining balance and maneuverability. By repurposing bike frames and wheel components, the design began to take shape through hands-on experimentation. Aligning and securing each part was crucial to ensure stability and smooth movement. This phase set the groundwork for refining the overall structure and testing functionality.
PROCESS
Planning
Building
Assembling the metal pieces.
Test 1:
I tested my design for the first time with a friend using strips of cloth to keep the legs steady.
The test was a failure, but I learnt that there were specific areas I needed to add stability and strength to.
Test 2:
The first part of test 2 was another failure. I had to use Velcro straps and thick nylon straps with buckles to hold the legs in place with the skates. The bolts weren’t tight enough either.
Final Test:
This test was successful. The balance was perfect, and the subject could move their legs to start skating around too. It is a learning curve to skate with these, but overall, a good project!
Learning methodologies within metalwork -
bending metal using heat and other instruments, welding and understanding the different material reactions to processes (stainless steel, MS, aluminium)
