The ALPHA Concept
We set out to create a bicycle that would push the boundaries of integrated systems. The result is Alpha, the first bicycle with a fully internal drivetrain including an electronically-controlled clutch allowing the rider to switch between fixed-gear and freewheeling configurations. All of the bike’s components, including a belt drive, brakes, and an onboard electronics suite, are housed inside the custom-machined frame. Besides protecting these fragile components from degrading environmental exposure, this integration also gives the bike a streamlined, striking appearance.
Designing such a beautiful machine would have been impossible without thorough underlying analyses. All of the bike’s subsystems were rigorously engineered to balance strength requirements against weight considerations. Consequently, Alpha weighs just 28 pounds, less than a regular steel-frame bicycle and can withstand loadings far beyond normal riding.
Alpha was fabricated entirely in-house, pushing the limits of the Engineering School’s facilities. For example, the frame was constructed using a custom-built jig to epoxy carbon fiber tubing to CNC-machined Aluminum lugs. Many of the drivetrain’s components were also manufactured using CNC-machining, as well as Direct Metal Laser Sintering of Stainless Steel. Pre-Impregnated Carbon Fiber was laid up around a 3D printed ABS male-mold to produce the ergonomic, functionally unique handlebars. Mastering all of these advanced manufacturing techniques was costly and required constant iteration, yet the bike was completed on time and under budget. This project was made possible by the support of our many sponsors, ranging from local businesses to multinational corporations.
Designing such a beautiful machine would have been impossible without thorough underlying analyses. All of the bike’s subsystems were rigorously engineered to balance strength requirements against weight considerations. Consequently, Alpha weighs just 28 pounds, less than a regular steel-frame bicycle and can withstand loadings far beyond normal riding.
Alpha was fabricated entirely in-house, pushing the limits of the Engineering School’s facilities. For example, the frame was constructed using a custom-built jig to epoxy carbon fiber tubing to CNC-machined Aluminum lugs. Many of the drivetrain’s components were also manufactured using CNC-machining, as well as Direct Metal Laser Sintering of Stainless Steel. Pre-Impregnated Carbon Fiber was laid up around a 3D printed ABS male-mold to produce the ergonomic, functionally unique handlebars. Mastering all of these advanced manufacturing techniques was costly and required constant iteration, yet the bike was completed on time and under budget. This project was made possible by the support of our many sponsors, ranging from local businesses to multinational corporations.
