Micro Vibration Motors
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Why do we use micro vibration motors?
These would signal to the bicyclist that a car is approaching. At first, we considered using sound to indicate an approaching car, but we learned from competitive cyclists that the sound of wind and road noise makes it difficult to hear noise. However, a micro vibration motor would be a good option because:
A series of micro vibration motors could be worn to signal the angle of approach to the bicyclist. Different vibration patterns could be used to tell the bicyclist the distance of the approaching car, and the frequency of the vibration could inform the bicyclist of the speed of the car.
Why did we choose to wear the vibration motors on the upper arm?
Our team ran a series of tests on each other to determine which part of the body was the most sensitive. We wanted our bicyclist to be able to distinguish the different vibrations most effectively. Overall, the upper arm was the most sensitive; it could determine two pin pricks down to 1/16 of an inch apart!
Why do we use micro vibration motors?
These would signal to the bicyclist that a car is approaching. At first, we considered using sound to indicate an approaching car, but we learned from competitive cyclists that the sound of wind and road noise makes it difficult to hear noise. However, a micro vibration motor would be a good option because:
- Micro vibration motors are extremely small (5mm x 15mm).
- Micro vibration motors are very cheap ($0.18 each).
- Less than 0.1W is required to drive each motor.
- They can convey the location, distance and speed of approaching vehicles.
A series of micro vibration motors could be worn to signal the angle of approach to the bicyclist. Different vibration patterns could be used to tell the bicyclist the distance of the approaching car, and the frequency of the vibration could inform the bicyclist of the speed of the car.
Why did we choose to wear the vibration motors on the upper arm?
Our team ran a series of tests on each other to determine which part of the body was the most sensitive. We wanted our bicyclist to be able to distinguish the different vibrations most effectively. Overall, the upper arm was the most sensitive; it could determine two pin pricks down to 1/16 of an inch apart!