March 9, 2024
Image courtesy: https://pubbs.in
IIT Kharagpur launches innovative cloud-based Public Bicycle Sharing System electronics
IITKGP Foundation
IIT Kharagpur has launched a 4th generation “Make in India” Public Bicycle Sharing System (PUBBS) on its campus as part of the institute’s initiative to implement non-polluting and green transport on campus. The cloud-based bicycle sharing system was initially rolled out for free and is now available at a minor charge on a subscription basis so that it can be set up by individuals without specialized equipment and personnel. The eco-friendly project was funded by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Developed by a team of researchers from the department of Architecture and Regional Planning, led by Dr. Debapratim Pandit, it is designed as a dock-less public bicycle system. It includes a smart electro-mechanical IOT (internet of things) module for locking bicycles and its software. The goal of PUBBS is to be a platform to address the last and first mile connectivity issues in urban settings. It helps people to cover a short distance at negligible costs. The team’s goal is to overcome micro-mobility for people.
PUBBS provides a smart and hassle free public bicycle sharing system that prepares the bicycle for a sustainable future. PUBBS developed the following products to enable this service:
1. SMART Bicycle Lock
Types: GSM/GPS Auto Lock, GSM/GPS+BLE Manual Lock, BLULOCK, GLOCK, PERSONAL LOCK, RFID LOCK
Features: GSM/GPS/Communication, GPS Location tracking, theft detection with GPS location, efficient locking and unlocking with robotic hardware driver, updated circuit and battery protection; energy efficient hardware design, enhanced battery life.
2. Bicycle Stands
Types: RFID-based stands, automatic e-bike charging stands
3. Associated Software Applications
User applications- station and individual bicycle detection, operational assistance, ride history, bluetooth connection, and more.
Admin applications- add stations, bicycles, employees, and areas; track bicycles; provide support; recharge bicycles; and more.
Dr. Pandit says that, “Anyone can start the system in a couple of hours with 25-30 bikes. A geo-fencing area has to be created to start operation. We have an administrative app for operators to create all this.”