01 / Abstract
Abstract
This project investigates a bicycle-mounted air-quality device that can collect useful environmental readings during a ride. The engineering scope includes sensor selection, airflow, vibration, weather exposure, power, mounting, and honest interpretation of mobile measurements.
02 / Use cases
Use cases
- Compare exposure patterns across commute routes.
- Collect a time-stamped ride dataset for later analysis.
- Demonstrate sensor integration, enclosure design, and field validation.
03 / Theory
Operating theory
Measurement definition
Air quality is not a single variable. The first version must select a target such as particulate matter or VOC response and state what the sensor can and cannot infer.
Dynamic sampling
Vehicle speed, road dust, traffic position, enclosure airflow, temperature, and humidity can influence readings during a ride.
Mechanical integrity
The mount must handle vibration and weather without distracting the rider, creating a snag point, or allowing the sensor inlet to become obstructed.
04 / Requirements
Requirements and success criteria
- Select one defensible air-quality metric for the first prototype.
- Mount securely without interfering with steering, braking, or rider visibility.
- Log enough context to interpret readings after the ride.
- Complete a short repeatable route test with documented limitations.
05 / Architecture
System architecture
06 / Current status
Current status
The project goal and field constraints are documented. Target pollutant, sensor, data format, power source, mounting location, and first test route remain open.
07 / Next steps
Next steps
- Choose the first measured variable and define what decision it supports.
- Compare sensor accuracy, calibration burden, size, and power.
- Select a mounting location and minimum useful ride test.
- Define the log format before building the enclosure.
08 / Risks
Risks and constraints
- Airflow and road dust can create misleading readings.
- A loose mount or cable can become a riding hazard.
- Consumer sensors may indicate trends without supporting regulatory conclusions.
09 / Artifacts
Engineering artifacts
- Existing hardware research report
- Planned sensor-selection matrix
- Mount and enclosure files
- Ride dataset and limitations report