E-Bike Evolution: Design, Build, and Ride!

High School Grade

Project
5 weeks

E-Bike Evolution: Design, Build, and Ride!

Connor Hall

Purpose

The project aims to engage students in the practical application of engineering and design principles by converting a traditional bike into a functional e-bike. Through hands-on workshops and collaboration with community partners, students will explore innovative design modifications and learn how various e-bike components work together to enhance performance. The project culminates in a showcase where students present their creations, demonstrating both technical skills and creative problem-solving.

Learning goals

Students will explore innovative design and engineering principles by converting a traditional bike into a functional e-bike, focusing on integrating electrical systems and enhancing aesthetics. They will develop practical skills in circuitry, design thinking, and prototyping, using tools and software to create a user-friendly and efficient commuter e-bike. Additionally, students will cultivate collaboration and communication skills by engaging with community partners and presenting their work to diverse audiences.

Standards

Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.W.7: Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.SL.4: Present information, findings, and supporting evidence such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
NGSS - HS-ETS1-2: Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

Products

Throughout the project, students will develop detailed design sketches and CAD models of their e-bike concepts, iteratively refining these based on feedback. They will construct a fully functional, street-legal e-bike that incorporates innovative design modifications and enhanced performance features. Additionally, students will produce a comprehensive digital portfolio showcasing their project journey, including photos, videos, and reflective narratives. At the conclusion, they will present a technical report detailing the conversion process, design choices, and technical specifications of their e-bike.

Launch

Kick off the project with an interactive 'E-Bike Exploration Day' where students visit a local bike shop to examine various e-bike models and components. Engage students in a hands-on workshop led by bike mechanics, where they disassemble and reassemble a basic e-bike system to understand its core functions. Conclude with a brainstorming session at the makerspace, where students sketch initial design ideas and discuss potential innovations with peers and mentors.

Exhibition

Organize a community 'E-Bike Expo' where students present their custom e-bikes, showcasing design features and performance enhancements to an audience of peers, teachers, and local community members. Include interactive stations where attendees can learn about the conversion process, view design sketches, and test ride the e-bikes. Facilitate a panel discussion with local artists, designers, and engineers to provide feedback and insights on the students' work, fostering a dialogue on innovation and sustainability in transportation.

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4
Activities	Conduct a 'Tech and Tools Tour' at the local bike shop and makerspace, allowing students to explore various bike components and tools, and interact with experts.	Participate in a hands-on workshop where students disassemble and reassemble a basic e-bike system to understand its core functions.	Engage in a design thinking session to brainstorm innovative e-bike features, sketch initial design ideas, and discuss potential innovations with peers and mentors.	Launch the 'Creative Concept Competition' where students pitch their initial e-bike design ideas to a panel of peers and community partners for feedback.
Deliverables	1. A set of initial design sketches and concept proposals for the e-bike, refined based on feedback received during the 'Creative Concept Competition'. 2. A reflection journal entry summarizing the students' experiences and insights from the 'Tech and Tools Tour' and initial design brainstorming.
Preparation	1. Coordinate with the local bike shop and makerspace to schedule the 'Tech and Tools Tour' and ensure accessibility to necessary tools and components. 2. Prepare materials and resources for the hands-on workshop, including disassembled e-bike components for student exploration. 3. Organize the design thinking session with necessary materials such as sketchpads, pencils, and CAD software access. 4. Set up the 'Creative Concept Competition' by arranging a venue, inviting community partners, and preparing a rubric for feedback.

Week 2	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4
Activities	Conduct a workshop on electrical systems and circuitry, focusing on how to safely integrate a motor and battery into a bike frame. Students practice wiring and understanding voltage requirements.	Engage in a CAD software tutorial to refine e-bike design sketches into digital models, ensuring accurate measurements for component integration.	Collaborate with partners from the local bike shop to select appropriate components for the conversion, considering compatibility and performance enhancements.	Facilitate small group sessions where students prototype a specific e-bike feature using accessible materials, documenting the process and testing feasibility.
Deliverables	1. A detailed CAD model of the e-bike design, including annotations for component placement and electrical connections. 2. A reflection journal entry documenting learnings from the electrical systems workshop and component selection process. 3. A prototype of one innovative e-bike feature, accompanied by a brief report on its design and testing outcomes.
Preparation	1. Arrange for an expert to lead the electrical systems and circuitry workshop, ensuring necessary tools and safety equipment are available. 2. Prepare CAD software tutorials and ensure students have access to computers with the required software installed. 3. Coordinate with the local bike shop to facilitate the component selection process, ensuring a range of options are available for student exploration. 4. Gather materials for prototyping sessions, including basic electronics, cardboard, and other craft materials for model-making.

Week 3	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4
Activities	Conduct a workshop on integrating digital interfaces and control systems, where students learn to install and program a controller for the e-bike, including throttle and display integration.	Hold peer review sessions where students present their digital CAD models and prototypes to small groups for focused feedback on design and functionality.	Facilitate hands-on sessions where students begin assembling their e-bike by integrating electrical and mechanical components, documenting each step.	Organize a problem-solving lab where students troubleshoot common issues encountered during assembly, collaborating with peers and mentors to find solutions.
Deliverables	1. A functional digital interface on the e-bike demonstrating programmed control and display features. 2. A revised CAD model incorporating peer feedback, highlighting changes made to improve design or functionality. 3. A detailed assembly log that outlines the steps taken, challenges faced, and solutions implemented during the assembly process.
Preparation	1. Schedule a session with an expert in digital interfaces to guide students on programming and installation techniques. 2. Prepare materials and resources for peer review sessions, including feedback forms and criteria for evaluation. 3. Ensure all necessary tools and components are available for the e-bike assembly sessions, coordinating with community partners as needed. 4. Set up a troubleshooting lab with access to spare parts and diagnostic tools to support students in problem-solving activities.

Week 4	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4
Activities	Conduct a session on aesthetic enhancements, where students explore ways to improve the visual appeal of their e-bike using various materials and techniques such as painting, decals, and custom 3D-printed parts.	Organize a workshop focused on finalizing and testing the e-bike's mechanical systems, ensuring all components function seamlessly together.	Facilitate peer-to-peer feedback sessions where students present their nearly completed e-bikes for critique on both functionality and aesthetics, incorporating any final revisions based on feedback received.	Arrange a practice session for the upcoming 'Ride and Reveal' event, allowing students to rehearse their presentations and test rides in a supportive environment.
Deliverables	1. A finalized e-bike with both functional and aesthetic enhancements ready for the 'Ride and Reveal' event. 2. A presentation plan outlining key points for the 'Ride and Reveal' event, including performance features and design choices. 3. An updated digital portfolio entry that includes images or videos of the completed e-bike and reflections on the feedback and revision process.
Preparation	1. Prepare materials for the aesthetic enhancement session, including painting supplies, decal materials, and access to 3D printing resources. 2. Ensure the availability of tools and equipment necessary for final mechanical system testing and adjustments. 3. Organize the logistics of the peer feedback sessions, including setting up presentation spaces and preparing feedback forms. 4. Coordinate with the local bike shop or community partners to provide a safe space for practice rides and presentations, ensuring any necessary permits or permissions are in place.

Week 5	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4
Activities	Host a 'Design Showcase' where students display their e-bikes alongside concept sketches and design boards, inviting feedback from local artists and designers on aesthetics and innovation.	Conduct the 'Ride and Reveal' event where students take their converted e-bikes for a test ride in front of an audience, showcasing performance features.	Facilitate a reflection session where students review their project journey, discussing challenges faced, achievements, and insights gained.	Compile and finalize the digital portfolio with photos, videos, and written reflections documenting the entire e-bike conversion project.
Deliverables	1. A comprehensive presentation during the 'Design Showcase' detailing the innovative design modifications and enhancements made. 2. A successful demonstration of the e-bike's performance and design features at the 'Ride and Reveal' event. 3. A completed digital portfolio that includes detailed documentation, visual media, and reflective narratives of the project journey.
Preparation	1. Organize the logistics for the 'Design Showcase', including setting up display areas and coordinating with local artists and designers for feedback sessions. 2. Coordinate with the local bike shop or community partners to ensure a safe space for the 'Ride and Reveal' event, securing any necessary permits or permissions. 3. Prepare reflection prompts and facilitate materials for the reflection session, encouraging students to articulate their learning experiences. 4. Provide guidance on compiling digital portfolios, ensuring students have access to necessary technology and support for finalizing their documentation.