An integrated bicycle computer mount for aerodynamic handlebars

Development of a lightweight and aerodynamic solution for integration of bike computers into aerodynamic handlebars of professional road cycling bicycles

Master thesis (2024)

Authors

D.R.J. Kemme Industrial Design Engineering

Contributors

A.J. Jansen Emerging Materials - IDE (supervisor 1)
E. Tempelman Emerging Materials - IDE (supervisor 2)
Faculty
Industrial Design Engineering
Copyright: © 2024 Daan Kemme
More Info
expand_more

Published Date

24-01-2024

Language

English

Reuse Rights

Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.

Faculty

Industrial Design Engineering

Abstract

The goal of this graduation thesis is to design a bicycle computer mount (BCM) that connects bike computers with road cycling handlebars in a visually appealing, and aerodynamic way. Initiated between Delft University of Technology and a leading sports equipment company, the project addresses the evolving needs of cyclists regarding maximum integration and aerodynamic optimisation of their material.

Through context research, user research and aerodynamic research, ideas were generated and formed into concepts. From those concepts the most promising was selected to further develop into a detailed design. This design was then validated with vibration tests, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA).

The final design is a one-piece thermoplastic BCM that weighs 38 grams. It is made from injection moulded carbon-reinforced nylon (CF/PA12) to optimise weight and structural performance. A physical prototype was made for validation with different computers and vibration testing.