DESIGN NAME: Cerberus
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Moped
INSPIRATION: Designing such a moped was a wonderful experience, and drew inspiration from neighborhoods around
the design studio. Researching the feasibility of the design was resource intensive, as it is an
unconventional arrangement which to my knowledge has not been applied to two wheeled vehicles
before. The most difficult part of creating this concept design was keeping it limited to a homogeneous
style and form, whilst existing resources readily available. Moreover, conducting a careful investigation
of engine systems and theories on vehicular design, whilst attempting to improve such aspects, proved
somewhat challenging, especially when attempting to include public opinion.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Part of an extensive project, the Cerberus is the modern answer to the classic moped; Unrestricted
travel, unrestricted fun. True to its name, it can be powered in three ways: a 2.8 Kw electric battery, a
2.3kw 50cc 4 stroke engine, and a set of foot pedals. The Cerberus can reach 60kph on electric power, and 60kph on petrol, perfect for bike paths, city centres, and suburban roads. Its reliability allows every
component to be interchangeable with aftermarket parts, for a truly personal touch.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: Mounting the Cerberus is like any other bike. Pushing a button on the left side of the handlebar, and a switch on the right, triggers the electrical motor. For petrol, cease twisting the accelerator, engage the clutch, and pedal to trigger the motor. One can then reapply force on the throttle. A button press on the right handlebar interrupts the connection between the engine and the system, thus ceasing engine power. This allows the flow between power sources in different environments.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: Work on the project began and remained in Montecatini Terme, because of the pandemic. The location had helped to inspire critical aspects of the design. The project began in February 2020, and was completed in roughly one year later. Due to Covid 19 restrictions, project duties slowed down, yet ideas on the project and its market impact were constantly analysed.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Vehicle, Mobility and Transportation Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Steel, Chromed Steel, Aluminum Alloy, Magnesium Alloy, Brass, Plastic, ABS, Rubber.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Wheels: 2in. Frame: Steel with quadrilater System Forks. Headset Rake: 22 degrees. Wheelbase: 1338mm. Handlebar with adjustable length from 830 to 980mm. Stem length adjustable from 10 to 110mm. Fuel Capacity: 7L. Integrated Oil Tank Capacity: 1,5L. Gasoline Engine: 4 stroke 50cc with Supercharger, 90 degrees valves, 3.1 hp. Electric Engine: 2800W, 72V, 11,6Ah. Max Torque 120 Nm. Electric Engine Weight: 4550 gr. Battery Pack Weight: 3100 gr. Estimated Range no pedaling: 200 Km.
TAGS: Moped, Motorbike, Hybrid, Electric Bike, Classic, Retro Style, Ergonomic, Travel, Racing.
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: A continued research process formed the basis of my project. The process had two parts: an individual
analysis and extensive sketches of ideas through CAD software in which out-of-the-box designs could be
pioneered. The concepts were developed through probing texts, articles, interviews with experts, and
personal experiences. In this case, the objective was to ensure the designs were as abstract and
futuristic as possible, whilst at the same time being practical and trail-blazing.
CHALLENGE: The biggest challenging of designing Cerberus was mainly the ergonomics of the design, and fitting
various technologies and gear systems into an aesthetically pleasing design. The design includes multiple
sophisticated technologies, but fitting them together in synergy was difficult. For example, applying a set
of handlebars that could adjust in length and distance from the user was critical to the design's
ergonomics, yet had to be reliable and practical at the same time.
ADDED DATE: 2021-02-28 23:29:03
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Marco Naccarella.
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: There are two patents pending for Cerberus.
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