The potential of haptic interfaces for urban cyclists in China

The thesis is the culmination of a two year investigation into revolutionary mobile communication interface designs for cyclists in large cities in China. The research came about as a result of my interest in the growing trend of cyclists making phone calls while cycling in China. There is current discussion in China about whether creating legislation would be a good option for controlling mobile phone use while cycling. My analysis of website articles indicates, however that fining cyclists for making mobile phone calls while cycling would be ineffective. In a sense my research is concerned with this view. I hope to demonstrate through this research, therefore that the problem can be addressed through product design rather than through stricter laws and changes to legislation.<br><br>This current project looks at:<br>Why and how this phenomenon of cyclists making phone calls arose in current modern China, what are the implications, hidden problems and potential opportunities for the existent system?<br><br>How can these problems be addressed through design with a view towards creating a better interface for cyclists to interact with other people and the traffic system whilst cycling in urban cities?<br><br>The final design scenarios are used to illustrate how cyclists being an integral to interact with the systems and stay in connect with others. How and why haptic interfaces can contribute for the cyclists’ safety in a broader traffic situation in China.