Meet Joules, the tandem pedaling robot created by engineer Chris, after his son challenged him to create an electric powered tandem that worked by pedal power.
The build resulted from a challenge by my son, a former pro bicycle racer, and is purely for fun. Could I build an electric tandem based on actually pumping the pedals? Would it climb the steep hills where we live? The result of the challenge is Joules, who sits on the stoker seat and does all of the pedaling.
The Inspiration Behind Joules
The inspiration for Joules came from a unique challenge posed by Chris’s son, who has a background as a professional bicycle racer. The challenge was to create an electric tandem bicycle that could be powered by actual pedaling, rather than relying solely on an electric motor. This idea was not only intriguing but also posed a significant engineering challenge. The goal was to see if such a creation could handle the steep hills in their local area, making it a practical and fun project.
Chris took on this challenge with enthusiasm, combining his engineering skills with his passion for cycling. The result was Joules, a robot designed to sit on the stoker seat of a tandem bicycle and do all the pedaling. This innovative approach allowed Chris to create a unique and functional tandem bicycle that could be powered by both human and robotic effort.
Engineering and Design
Creating Joules was no small feat. The robot needed to be designed in such a way that it could effectively pedal the bicycle, providing enough power to assist in climbing steep hills. This required careful consideration of the robot’s mechanics, including the design of its legs and the synchronization of its pedaling motion with the bicycle’s gears.
One of the key challenges was ensuring that Joules could pedal with enough force to make a difference. This involved designing a robust and efficient motor system that could mimic the pedaling action of a human cyclist. Additionally, the robot needed to be lightweight enough to not add unnecessary weight to the bicycle, while still being durable enough to withstand the rigors of cycling.
The result was a robot that could seamlessly integrate with the tandem bicycle, providing a unique and enjoyable cycling experience. Joules not only met the challenge posed by Chris’s son but also demonstrated the potential for innovative engineering solutions in the world of cycling.
Check out the video of Joules in action below.
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via Dvice, Gizmodo, Engadget
The creation of Joules is a testament to the power of creativity and engineering. By taking on a unique challenge and applying his skills, Chris was able to create a functional and enjoyable tandem bicycle that combines human and robotic power. This project not only provided a fun and engaging experience for Chris and his son but also showcased the potential for innovative solutions in the world of cycling. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or simply interested in robotics, Joules is a fascinating example of what can be achieved with a little creativity and determination.
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