City Step
Product Design
Description
Sponsored by General Motors, design a mobility device for young urban professionals during their "last mile of commute", with an expected launch to be within 5 years.
City Step revolutionizes the way commuters navigate inconsistent sidewalks, effortlessly amplifying your walking speed while maintaining a low profile and clean silhouette. Simply attach it to your shoe and walk at your own pace for a quick and efficient commuting experience.
This project was completed with Amberlyn Diehl, Charli Kwan, Lucas Lee, Taylor Storlie, and Liliana Whitesell for Georgia Tech's Senior Interdisciplinary Capstone taught by Wayne Li.
Duration
17 weeks
January - May 2024
Tools
Figma, Fusion 360, Keyshot, Adobe Creative Cloud, Solidworks
The Problem
Research Findings
The team conducted research through Qualtrics surveys, in-person interviews, and ethnographic observations. In addition to these methods, we did secondary research to understand the current technology, market, and preferences.
Market Research
Contradictions
Results from survey n = 140
Results from in-person interview n = 8
Our Key Insights
The Design Statement
The Final Direction: City Step
Coming up with the solution
Visually I explored various mechanics to power the device following our gathered insights. The form of the device was inspired by General Motors EV1 and its form.
Verifying the Final Direction
Each aspect was carefully designed and constantly tested to ensure consistent user satisfaction.
Scale of Model
The anthropometric data is based off of the 90th percentile man between the ages of 20-25 as this fit the largest portion of our targeted demographic.
Wheel Design
Clasp Design
We initially explored hands-free mechanics relying on stepping and other forms of motion but diverted from this due to the rise in complications. Reverting back to the traditional strap, we wanted to reduce user's time to attach and detach from the device ultimately using the magnetic clasp.
Electronics and Mechanics
Through heavy testing and mathematical calculations, CityStep uses a customized battery pack to power a remote-controlled motor. The device uses one-way clutch bearings to prevent backward rolling of the wheels and other safety aspects.
Color, Material, and Finish
For both visual and engineering satisfaction, various materials were considered for the final device. The final color pallet follows General Motors branding.
Storyboard
Individual contribution: Leading research, concept development, clasp prototypes, and final model, all renders, CMF for final product, branding and visual displays
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