Motivational Gaming Bicycle
What is it?
This unique system encourages people to exercise while playing video games. The system uses a commercial bicycle to control the gameplay instead of a traditional gaming console. So, for example, while playing a car racing video game, the user's onscreen car increases speed when the user pedals faster; likewise, by steering the bike, the user steers the car on the screen.
Key features
- sensors and switches mounted on a standard bike include: a torque sensor (for power), cadence measurement (for forward and backward movement), brakes lever switches, and a twist throttle
- signals from the switches and sensor are sent via USB to a gaming controller box, which in turn is connected to a PlayStation or Xbox console; the controller box allows the user to map the switches on the bike to the appropriate buttons in order to allow different games to be played
- for individuals who wish to control a game on a PC, the bike may be directly connected to a USB input
- the device sits on a standard bike trainer in the rear to provide resistance
- the bike's front tire sits on a custom platform, which acts as a steering input and keeps the bike level
Who is it for?
The device was originally developed for a client with mental health challenges who faced a number of barriers to engaging in regular physical activity. For example, a side effect of the medication he was taking resulted in very low motivation to exercise. The bike was used to help increase his level of activity.
Photo (top left): a CanAssist visitor takes the bike for a test run.
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