Felicity Kemp

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University of Nottingham > Engineering > Departments > Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering > PDM Exhibitions > 2024 > MEng students > Felicity Kemp

A project to design a trailer that can be attached to a bicycle or e-bike. This solution allows delivery riders and drivers who already own a bike to purchase an add-on container rather than investing in an entire cargo bike.

Hi, I’m Felicity, and I have been studying Product Design and Manufacture for four years at the University of Nottingham. Throughout my degree, I've enjoyed turning simple ideas into practical, manufacturable products. This journey has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the entire design process, from initial concept to final production.

My favourite part of the design process is exploring a wide variety of concepts. I enjoy pushing myself creatively to find the best solution to a given problem. This phase allows me to think critically and innovate, ensuring that I can address the problem from multiple angles and come up with the most effective design.

When I’m not in the studio, I enjoy cycling in the Peak District. This not only provides a great way to stay active but also serves as a source of inspiration and a way to clear my mind. Additionally, I have been an active member of the University’s Design Society, where I organized social events. These activities have helped me build a strong network within the course community.

Felicity Kemp, MEng Product Design and Manufacture

Cargokart

The transportation sector, particularly commercial transport, is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. Within this sector, the courier industry is heavily dependent on large vans and lorries for goods transportation, exacerbating environmental concerns. To address these issues, the UK government has implemented various strategies aimed at reducing emissions and congestion, especially in urban areas. One notable shift resulting from these efforts is the increased use of electric vehicles for letter and parcel deliveries.

However, a growing trend in the industry is the use of cargo bikes, especially for 'Crowdshipping' activities. Despite their environmental benefits, the high cost and job-specific design of cargo bikes hinder their widespread adoption among self-employed couriers, who often prefer using their cars due to cost and practicality.

In response to these challenges, I have undertaken a project to design a trailer that can be attached to a bicycle or e-bike. This solution allows delivery riders and drivers who already own a bike to purchase an add-on container rather than investing in an entire cargo bike. The final design includes several key features to enhance usability, security, and versatility:

Quick Release Mechanism: The trailer includes a quick release mechanism at the hitch, allowing it to be easily detached from the bike. This feature enables couriers to transport the trailer on foot, ensuring that delivery items remain secure and close by at all times during their shift.
Intuitive Transport Design: The towbar of the trailer can be folded down using a locking hinge mechanism activated by twisting a handle. This design mirrors the actions involved in wheeling a suitcase, making the trailer easy to manoeuvre on foot.
Payload Protection: To safeguard the delivery items, the trailer is equipped with external GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) panels that provide robust protection against impacts. Additionally, the pneumatic wheels' shock absorbers and suspension help protect the payload from vibrations and shocks on uneven surfaces, ensuring that items arrive in good condition.
Modular Shelving: The trailer's interior features modular shelving, offering versatile storage configurations to accommodate various payload types, such as parcels, letters, and food delivery bags. This flexibility makes the trailer suitable for a wide range of delivery tasks.

By integrating these features, the designed trailer provides an efficient, secure, and versatile solution for bicycle-based deliveries, potentially reducing the reliance on cars and promoting more sustainable delivery practices.