French company Decathlon has announced the creation of bicycles that will fit every rider. 3D printing technology will help with this.
The frame and forks for the bike will be printed. And to develop a futuristic design, designers have resorted to using technologies of generative design and artificial intelligence.
The technology is based on mathematical algorithms, machine learning and computational geometry. This symbiosis facilitates the creation of diverse solutions that meet the requirements and constraints of the designer. The designer receives a list of solutions, which are analyzed and, if necessary, improved.
The project takes into account the dynamic performance of
component parts - achieving high speeds and sharp braking, aerodynamics.
The fork and frame are the most important parts of a bike. A frame that affects the handling of the entire vehicle. Each of these parts must be able to withstand extreme loads. Especially in the case of printing on a 3D printer.
As the designers at Decathlon note, the development is leading to a rethinking of the bicycle design process. Able to reduce weight by using fewer materials.
In the near future, the company plans to switch to full-fledged 3D printing from aluminum and to abandon carbon fiber. The latter, despite its popularity, is difficult to process. This material is used in racing bikes because of its strength and lightness.
The first release of "printed" bicycles will be announced later. Probably towards the end of 2021.
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