Sustainable Stationary Bicycle

Background:
In our current society it has become clear that alternate forms of energy are a necessity. Eastern Mennonite University has recognized this issue and has several sustainable initiatives throughout the campus. In congruence with these goals, the Engineers for a Sustainable World club recognized the waste of mechanical energy generated by exercise machines. To reduce the unnecessary waste, the club saw the opportunity to add an alternative form of energy created by gym goers on campus.

Specified Goal:
Our aim was to create a stationary bicycle that could harness the mechanical energy created by a rider and recycle it into EMU’s grid. The stationary bicycle would serve as a way to promote sustainability and give an opportunity for individuals to generate clean energy while exercising.

Implementation Process:
To begin the project, EMU ESW club collaborated with EMU’s Cycling Club to obtain a functional bicycle. Once a bike was chosen, the back wheel was removed and a steel stand was designed to provide stability. A 350 Watt Gear Reduction Electric Motor was fastened to the stand. A bike chain was attached to the chain ring of the bike and connected to the crankshaft of the motor. The motor’s electrical leads were then attached to a Grid Tie Inverter which converts direct current to alternating current compatible with EMU’s grid.

Results:
The construction of the stationary bike is nearly completed. Some revisions to our current design are still required for an improved user experience and maximize efficiency. These changes will be completed by the first week of February in order to allow time for proper analysis.

Conclusion:
Creating this sustainable stationary bike allowed the students in the ESW club an opportunity to practice basic design implementation. The premise of our project also advocates for healthy habits, sustainability, and ingenuity, something that Eastern Mennonite University is looking to emphasis in the culture of its student body.

Author(s):

Ben Zook    
Eastern Mennonite University
United States

Dylan Grove    
Eastern Mennonite University
United States

James Paetkau    
Eastern Mennonite University
United States

Collin Longenecker    
Eastern Mennonite University
United States

Austin Engle    
Eastern Mennonite University
United States

Ben Stutzman    
Eastern Mennonite University
United States

Esther Tian    
Eastern Mennonite University
United States