An Ireland-based startup called SuperWheel, founded by Simon Chan, invented the power-assisted bicycle wheel that doesn’t require a power source or charging and has no speed or range restrictions. It’s the first wheel that assists cyclists with no strings attached. It’ll never run out of power because it doesn’t need any power – aside from a little bit of human power.
The spring-powered wheel is being hailed as perhaps the most environmentally friendly power-assisted wheel on the market – and it’s much cheaper than a battery-powered electric bike. The SuperWheel has the potential to revolutionize transport by bike. It makes cycling more comfortable and boosts speed by 30%, thus increasing the distance commuters can travel emissions-free. Chan says with refinements, he should be able to improve the mechanism’s speed-boosting power to 50%.
SuperWheel is powered by movement and weight through ‘Weight to energy conversion technology’ (WTECT). According to a company description:
The WTECT system is a type of suspension system, using the reactive force to generate additional torque, to facilitate the wheel rotation. It comprises two mechanisms: the external spring mechanism and the internal drive. The action/reaction force caused by weight compresses the springs in the upper section of the wheel and decompresses in the lower section. Using the center as the pivot, this converts energy, reduces the frictional force in the opposite direction, and facilitates the rotation. Using 10kg active weight, the mechanism is shown to generate a moment ranging from 7.3Nm to 7.8Nm.
Chan has secured a distribution contract with a French distributor and will be manufacturing the product in Calgary, Canada. The first production units have already gone on sale in France. They are calling the SuperWheel and “E-bike alternative at a lower cost.”
The Technological Higher Education Association (THEA) says:
The SuperWheel is being marketed to city commuters, cycling enthusiasts, to any environmentalists out there still using less sustainable transports, and to people who may have a mobility disadvantage that restricts them from cycling. Using the Super Wheel is a green and efficient mode of transport.
The SuperWheel is compatible with most standard bikes, fitting in the place of wheels ranging from 20″ to 700C. It’s effortless to use – remove your bike’s back wheel and replace it with the SuperWheel.
SuperWheel is supported by Enterprise Ireland and operating out of the Regional Development Centre, Dundalk Institute of Technology’s enterprise and innovation hub.
