INFINITE CIRCLE

What it does

INFINITE CIRCLE provides a new concept for shared mobility services(e-Scooter) by solving the problem in the COVID-19 of sterilization. It forms a straight incision in the pipe inside the handle, so the handle covered the outer rotate in and out infinitely.

Your inspiration

Due to recent COVID-19 pandemic, the handles of the shared mobility could not avoid contact in usability, and it is the part that lots of bacteria and virus breed due to the hot and humid nature of the hands. INFINITE CIRCLE got the idea from UV-C LED sterilization used on escalator handrails. Even before COVID-19 pandemic, many accidents occurred as users do not use the escalator handrails. It was proven to be a solution that provides psychological stability along with the actual sterilizing effect. This idea is expected to provide a positive psychological effect together with the sterilization of shared mobility handles.

How it works

· Design: The handles of the transportation are the tool which is familiar to human beings used for a long time. So, the mobility usability should remain the traditional form and have no sense of difference to use. INFINITE CIRCLE focused on this point. The form left an incision in a pipe could design all the technical aspects internally. The internal UV sterilizes the contaminated outer belt. Consequently, harmful UV does not affect bodies. Outer cap in the shape of light delivers the idea to the user. It visibly shows the sterilization to the customers, at the same time promoting the brand. · Function(UX): It solution operates 24/7 by itself. All automated EV system saves users’ time and provides ease of use. When users unlock the vehicle using a smartphone, the sterilized inner rubber cover comes out(using power from the internal motor and gear for belt fixing). During the ride, the power generated to run the UV sterilizes the inner cover for the next user.

Design process

1. Problem: Shared mobility are used by the unspecified mass. Therefore, the users are easily exposed to contagious diseases such as virus. According to a research company, the number of germs on the handles is as 250 times as high as that of toilets. 2. Conditions for solving: There shall be no time gap for sterilization between users. UV is reported to be the most effective sterilization system. However, direct application to human bodies is hazardous and it must be installed inside. 3. Derivation of ideas: Ideas were attained from the Möbius strip and block play. As for the block play, there is one blank without a block and this enables all the other blocks to move. A gap was made by cutting about 3mm of the handle pipe. As a result, the handle rubber cover could infinitely rotate the orbit just like the Möbius. 4. Design process: Minimum numbers of parts and components were used to meet the unit prices. Also, for smooth operation of the equipment, rubber and pipes of various thicknesses were prototyped. Many tests were conducted with various methods of motors, etc. In order for the internal LED to be applied evenly to the cover, gears was tested with polycarbonate which produce a high level of permeability. Prototyping still continue in consideration of optimum efficiency.

How it is different

INFINITE CIRCLE was recognized for its legal progression and rights by applying for PCT(PCT/KR2020/017166) and registering Korean patent(2004914510000). It keeps the usability and existing mobility form, so although it is a unique, it is very innovative design idea. As an effective precaution against infectious disease like COVID-19, an important social problem, it will give a big difference to the shared mobility industry. Also, during and after the pandemic, having a hygiene solution will attract customers, thereby providing brand differentiation and market preoccupation effects. From the perspective of a mobility service provider, there is an advantage to save the resources for collection and manpower aimed at sterilization each time. Also, the idea to cut the handle pipe simply enables you to install a sensitive EV sterilizer inside with the minimum number of parts and components. Additionally, there are advantages in terms of maintenance and management.

Future plans

By developing more perfect prototypes, it will be provide the service under the condition to receive a royalty from shared mobility service company. It is an idea that matches the two conflicting values, the shared economy and the infectious diseases. Epidemics such as COVID-19 are highly contagious in big cities where shared mobility operates. The development of an shared mobility which environmentally reduces carbon emission, should continue. Moreover, the infectious disease is not going to be a temporary phenomenon but a continuous problem in the future. It will be a sustainable idea for the environment and for the health of human beings.

Awards

· iF DESIGN AWARD 2021 Professional Concept/Product (Winner) · Hongik University Startup Competition Idea Award 2020 (Grand Prize)