Veloloop Brings Traffic Light Triggering To Bicycles

Cycling to get around is becoming more common due to environment concerns and other reasons, and though there are many benefits to this mode of transportation, with it comes some hassles as well. Roads are designed around the needs of vehicles, and so things like sensors at stop lights require cyclists to find work-around methods to make their trip as smooth as possible. Many cyclist have tried using magnets to trigger traffic light sensors, but cyclist Nat Collins of California has presented a better solution.

The idea behind Veloloop is simple — most traffic lights at intersections are triggered by sensors below the asphalt, which detect the presence of a car. Bikes don't trigger these sensors, and magnets aren't any help, despite attempts to get them to work. This could result in long wait times at an intersection, with the light failing to change in the absence of a detected vehicle.

Veloloop is an aluminum loop that is powered by two AAA batteries, using an LED light to indicate when it has detected and triggered a traffic sensor, eliminating the problem. The loop is attached to one's bicycle near the rear tire, and is designed so that it won't be hit by your heel or the curb when cycling.

The Veloloop is being funded through Kickstarter, where the makers are looking to raise enough funds for the initial production round. About $3,400 USD has been raised so far, a fraction of the $84,000 goal, with 22 days remaining. A pledge of $99 USD will get you one Veloloop in red.

VIA: Gizmag