Project One: Deconstruct an Interaction
An Ethnographic Study of Bike Locks
Why is This Interaction Necessary?
To attempt to prevent bike theft and give piece of mind.
What are the Items of Interaction?
-Cable/wire locks should be of the multi-wound multi "braided" type. A braided cable with many thin wire strands is far more difficult to cut than a cable with consists of a lesser number of thicker strands. Many cheaper cable locks consist of the basic cable construction whereas better quality cables will feature the finer braided construction.
-Chain locks are, once more, extremely flexible although tend to come in shorter lengths than cables. The strength of the chain is determined by the type of steel it is made from and the free space within the links. Chains are good at withstanding tensional forces (stretch) but may be broken by torsional forces (twisting). This torsional force is achieved by inserting two long levers into the gaps created between links and moving the levers in opposite directions. Better quality chains will have a reduced gap between consecutive links and be of hardened steel.
Chains should prove more secure than cables for longer periods but are considerably heavier. Chains can be virtually any length and because chain collapses into a pile, they can take up less space.
-Armoured locks (U or D locks) are essentially a cable lock with a sequence of articulated barrels through which the cable passes. The cable is not visible. The barrels tend to rotate if a thief attempts to saw through one, because they can rotate independently of any other barrel "link".
Armoured locks are generally more secure than a standard cable lock, but are considerably heavier, comparable in weight to chain locks. They are not quite as flexible as either chain or cable locks. Lengths are also limited.
Where and When Does the Interaction Start and Finish?
Starts when you get off the bike, and finishes once the bike is safely locked.
What are the Common Problems with the Interaction?
-Not enough designated poles
-Snow in the designated poles
-Locks freezing/rusting
-Keys breaking
-Locks not being long/wide enough to lock everything together
-Having to use multiple locks which is expensive
-Locks can easily be pryed/cut
-Awkward to carry around (size and weight)
-Hard to manage with gloves and other accessories
How Can This Interaction be Improved?
-Re-design entire system, fusing bike & lock, break lock the bike is unusable
-Rubber key hole cover to prevent rusting and freezing
-City programs with ‘locking docks’ where the lock would be a secure structure
-Variable length U-lock to fit around all required components but remain tight to prevent bike theft
*sorry Jesse i couldn't get the pics or the video up!*
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1 comment:
Excellent identification of the problem as a direct result of ethnographic observation; Frustratingly insubstantial blog post; Suggested improvements exhibit excellent lateral thinking in the face of a difficult suite of problems.
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