B SAFE Urban Bicycle Sharing System by ying kit, sean lee from australia

Bicycle-sharing systems provide an affordable and easily accessible commuting alternative for short distance trip within the city to reduce the use of automobiles. The benefits of bicycle sharing include reduced congestion on public transport, traffic and roads, lower greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, and reduced road accidents. Furthermore, bicycle-sharing systems enhances the well-being of individuals with associated health benefits from cycling. Despite the benefits, the major barrier towards promoting bicycle-sharing system is madatory bicycle helmet requirements for safe cycling without the provision of helmets. Furthermore, hygiene issues are raised as the system is based on sharing. Therefore users are discouraged in the adoption of bicycle sharing. The central concept of the B-SAFE system is to provide a safe and hygienic solution to users and encourage a comfortable adoption of bicycle-sharing system with the provision of bicycles and helmets rental.

Registration is done online and members of B-Safe Urban Bicycle Sharing System will receive privileges such as discounts on rentals or implementating marketing rewards program, to encourage people to adopt the system. Non-members such as tourist who wishes to utilize the system, may use their credit card for rentals at the station. A number of bicycles and helmets are made available for shared use to individuals who do not own a bicycle or helmet, complying with madatory bicycle helmet requirements. A packet of disposable sanitized wipes will be dispensed from the B-SAFE station upon each helmet rental, and both bicycles and helmets are maintained and clean on a daily basis that will ensure safety and provide a hygienic assurance to the user. As the system is designed for short trips, long hours usage will be slightly expensive. If the rented items are not returned after 24 hours, a mobile sms and email reminder will be sent to the user.