aerolock | senior capstone | spring 2009
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I chose to focus on bicycle security for my senior capstone. Although there are numerous lock designs out on the market, none successfully solve all the separate issues involved. Conventional bike locks are designed with little regard for portability and can be quite a burden while riding. They should be convenient to carry and use while also being secure enough to stand up against the relentless tactics of modern bike thieves. The aerolock is designed for not only the bike rack, but the ride as well.
In addressing the various security flaws exploited by bike thieves, the aerolock utilizes hardened steel rod and casing. This easily fends off common theft by hacksaws and bolt cutters. Pry theft, however, from tools such as a car jack, is becoming the new method for thieves and is quite powerful against conventional u-locks. The aerolock is designed to prevent pry theft through an adjustable enclosement area and an angular form which eliminates parallel points of leverage inside the lock.
While riding, the aerolock can be utilized as an aerobar system for a more aerodynamic, efficient and ergonomic posture. For commuters, one of the main drawbacks from conventional aerobars is the lack of a safe and quick braking option. To address this, an additional brake lever may be attached, for a safer and more comfortable riding experience. The armrests are built on a spring loaded hinge, keeping them up and out of the way when not being used. If the user doesn’t want to use the aerobar setup, they can simply detach the arm rests and brake lever, and mount the lock elsewhere on their bike frame.
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