Velo Viz

Velo Viz is a bike-mounted LED system designed to enhance visibility and safety. It combines dynamic lighting with proximity sensors to provide real-time feedback for cars when passing.

I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of bike safety, especially the risk of collisions with cars. This system is built for riders who want increased security and visibility during nighttime rides.

Velo Viz is more than a product; it's a community-driven safety solution. With detailed, cost-effective open-source documentation, anyone can build and customize their own version.

Tested the first iteration with cycling friends and gathered great insights for Prototype 2.

What I learned

• Indoor testers weren’t sure what the device was meant to do (testing outdoors is necessary).
• Users followed instructions well and understood how to power on the device.
• Confusion around power source, switch placement, and lack of mounting.

Next Steps

• Test outdoors on an actual bike.
• Switch from power bank to a lightweight 9V battery.
• Place LEDs in dynamic bike components (spokes, cranks, pedals).
• Add wearable LEDs via Bluetooth (wrist/leg bands).
• Additional function: prevent pant legs from catching in the chain.

Fully functional LED patterns connected to an Arduino Uno R3. The new iteration improves visibility from all angles.

Additional spoke-mounted LEDs add movement and enhance the cyclist’s side visibility, especially at intersections where car visibility is critical.