One Metre Plus (1M+): A Multifunctional Open-Source Sensor for Bicycles Based on Raspberry Pi

Area of Science:

• Transportation Engineering
• Public Health
• Open Science

Background:

• Bicycle-mounted sensors are crucial for analyzing vehicle-cyclist interactions.
• Measuring lateral passing distance is key to cyclist safety research.
• Existing sensor solutions can be costly and inaccessible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the "one metre plus" (1m+) sensor, a low-cost, open-source device for measuring lateral passing distance.
• To provide researchers with accessible tools for cyclist safety studies.
• To foster a platform for standardized data sharing in transportation research.

Main Methods:

• Detailed description of the 1m+ sensor's conceptualization, design, and materials.
• Open-source release of plans, code, and schematic designs.
• Evaluation of the sensor's functionalities and performance in field applications.

Main Results:

• The 1m+ sensor successfully measures lateral passing distance, records GPS data, and captures video.
• Open-source availability facilitates widespread adoption and adaptation by the scientific community.
• The device's low cost makes advanced cyclist safety research more accessible.

Conclusions:

• The 1m+ sensor democratizes research by providing an affordable and open platform.
• Standardized data collection through this tool will enhance the comparability of results globally.
• This initiative promotes collaborative research and knowledge sharing in cyclist safety.