trident by tomas nielsen from netherlands

The Trident is an innovative and practical bicycle designed to encourage drivers of high-end automobiles to incorporate bicycling as part of their urban commute to and from the center of Seoul. It is an electrically assisted compact folding bicycle that is stored in the trunk of the car, where it is always recharged (through the car's electrical system) and ready to go. Being targeted towards this user group, it is a beautiful and high-quality product with construction, aesthetics and user interaction designed to match those of luxury automobiles.

The Trident is based on the principle that this user group will not be likely to sacrifice their driving lifestyle entirely, but would be enticed by a beautiful product that will both save time and increase physical activity. Trident owners will drive some of the distance to their home/office/client and then park the car. They will then take out the Trident and cycle the final distance to their destination, thus avoiding high city center parking costs. The will also save valuable time that would be lost stuck in traffic, and engage in a healthier lifestyle.

The core concept of the design is the use of bevel gears to facilitate linked movement of key parts of the frame. When the rear wheel swingarm pivots under the main frame, the seat mast simultaneously swings to the left alongside the main frame. This linked motion allows two steps to be accomplished with only one movement. But this movement isn't even necessary from the user: In fact, the folding is instead powered by the rear wheel hub motor. It takes very little effort and few steps to transform the Trident from folded form to full bicycle (and back). Just push the "FOLD" button and steady the bicycle as is folds together with the power of the rear hub motor! Once the main frame is folded, a simple push of the release button on the handlebar allows the 2nd and final step of the folding, that is to bring the handlebar stem to the frame. When it clicks into place, the folding is complete. No dirty hands or bent over agony! See the included video clip to watch these steps in full motion.

An added feature that is specific to the Trident is that it is designed to be very low in folded form so that it can roll into the trunk with the wheels in upright position (see images). This allows the user to put the bicycle only partway into the trunk, and then roll it the rest of the way, further reducing the possibility of lower back strain or injury.

Of course the electric hub motor also assists the user with pedaling effort. This Axial Flux Permanent Magnet (AFPM) motor is light and efficient (and doesn't require reduction gears to spin at the correct speed for bicycle wheels). The power it provides while riding is regulated by the input to the axle-mounted torque sensor. During low effort pedaling, the motor provides little assistance, but if the effort gets too large it will kick in full power. AFPM motors are new but attainable technology, providing a practical but leading edge option for bicycles like the Trident.

The Trident is a landmark product featuring world-class design will attract international attention towards Seoul, showcasing the possibilities of moving from a car-centered city towards a mixed use (or chain mobility) society.