STEM-In-Action Spring Scoop: E-bike Safety Patrol

Over the past year, our STEM-In-Action Grant-winning teams have been diligently advancing their eCYBERMISSION projects to create a meaningful impact in their communities. If you're new to eCYBERMISSION, the Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) awards STEM-In-Action Grants of up to $5,000 to support teams looking to further develop and implement their initiatives. As we check in with this year's grant recipients, we’re excited to share updates on their progress. Our last update comes from California team, E-bike Safety Patrol.

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    For the past two years, our team has been dedicated to developing a solution to enhance e-bike safety. We approached this challenge from both an engineering and community service perspective. Our project began with the observation that many children were riding e-bikes without wearing helmets. Through multiple design iterations, we devised a system incorporating a sensor into a helmet to detect whether the helmet was being worn. Last year, we built a prototype using an ON/OFF switch motor system to simulate an e-bike setup. We then integrated a proximity sensor that activated the e-bike motor model when a head was detected. In addition to our technical work, we conducted educational outreach, using a slide deck presentation to inform schools about the dangers of riding e-bikes without helmets and educate them about available resources. Due to time constraints, we were unable to integrate the system into a real e-bike, so we instead demonstrated our concept with a fan connected to a small motor.

The team integrating their circuit with an e-bike motor

    It has been incredible to see our project evolve since presenting it at the eCYBERMISSION National Judging & Educational Event. With the grant's support, we have taken our work to the next level. In our last update, we had successfully developed a fully functional helmet system, featuring a 3D-printed compartment that houses our microcontroller. We also made the network’s battery rechargeable, eliminating the need to connect the microcontroller to a computer for power. The 3D-printed box securely fits into the slots of the helmet, keeping the circuit intact. Over the past two months, we have focused on integrating the e-bike component to complete our project. Our main challenge was determining how to stop the motor from running when the helmet was not worn. Upon inspecting the e-bike, we identified the controller box that manages the throttle as a potential point of intervention. One option was to reprogram the control box to disrupt that connection. However, since e-bikes are designed to shut off the motor when the brake is engaged, we also considered intercepting the connection between the brake and the motor. After weighing the pros and cons, we decided to modify the brake system, as it required the least voltage and coding. With guidance from experts, we adapted our original Bluetooth prototype to connect to the e-bike, allowing us to intercept the brake-to-motor connection and ensure the motor only functions when intended. Now, with a fully operational helmet and e-bike system, we are conducting experiments to monitor its performance. Additionally, we are reaching out to law enforcement and local newspapers to raise awareness about this critical community safety issue.

The team soldering on an e-bike circuit

    At this stage, our primary goals are to expand publicity, educate more people through seminars and presentations, and collect data from our prototype to analyze its effectiveness. With the practical engineering phase of our project complete, our focus has shifted toward raising awareness and refining our system for real-world application. To ensure our device is reliable, we plan to conduct extensive testing, gathering data on helmet detection accuracy and response time. By analyzing these metrics, we can identify any potential limitations and optimize our design for safety and efficiency. Looking ahead, we hope to develop fully functional e-bikes equipped with our safety helmets for public micro-transportation. This would involve collaborating with e-bike manufacturers and city officials. By reaching out, we aim to advocate for the widespread implementation of our system, ultimately reducing e-bike-related injuries and promoting safer riding habits.

The helmet circuit

    The most challenging aspect of our project was integrating the e-bike circuit with the helmet system while ensuring communication between components. A major obstacle was the voltage - the e-bike generated significantly greater power than the microcontroller could handle, as it was limited to 3.3V. This posed a risk of damaging the microcontroller and disrupting system functionality. To address this, we redesigned the e-bike circuit and incorporated an additional microcontroller, the Arduino UNO, which offered better handling of the power distribution. Additionally, we introduced a transistor to act as a switch, allowing controlled power flow to prevent voltage spikes. The microcontroller was then configured to regulate the voltage and facilitate Bluetooth communication, ensuring that the system responded to helmet detection. Through these modifications, we created a stable and efficient circuit that allows the e-bike motor to activate only when the helmet is worn, improving both safety and reliability. 

The circuit integrated with the e-bike

    One of the most exciting aspects of our journey is the potential commercialization of our project. The prospect of seeing our safety technology integrated into real-world applications is not only fulfilling but also a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. Our work demonstrates that, regardless of age or prior expertise, dedication and problem-solving can lead to meaningful societal change. Beyond the technical achievements, our project provides an opportunity to develop business and communication skills. Engaging with elected officials will not only strengthen our understanding of public policy and commercialization strategies but also foster connections. Our ultimate vision is for every micro-mobility device to be equipped with our technology to enhance rider safety and prevent accidents. While this goal is ambitious, we firmly believe that incremental progress will pave the way for widespread adoption. We began with limited experience in coding and circuitry, yet through persistence and continuous learning, we have successfully developed a fully functional safety helmet integrated with an e-bike. This progression proves the idea that even the most challenging goals can be realized through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to public safety.

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One word - WOW! E-bike Safety Patrol proves once again that they are an engineering force to be reckoned with, and we are in awe of their ability to problem-solve, adapt, and overcome challenges. We have no doubt that their helmet will be on store shelves one day. 

This concludes our STEM-In-Action Grant follow ups for the 2023-2024 winners. Tune in to www.ecybermission.com/winners on May 2 as we announce the State Winners, Regional Finalists, National Finalists, and STEM-In-Action Grant winners for the 2024-2025 competition year. 

Faith Benner

Sr. Communications and Marketing Specialist