Description:
The Cycle rickshaw is an important mode of transportation in many small cities and towns in India. The traditional cycle rickshaw is seen in many shapes and sizes but there is a common thread that makes most of them rather inefficient, uncomfortable and often, unsafe vehicles. This is one of the prime reasons for the gradually diminishing clientele of the cycle rickshaws. The principal idea was to develop a modern cycle rickshaw that could demonstrate the possibility of growth of this traditional mode of transportation in India to counter the growing menace of motor vehicular pollution. The new cycle rickshaw was created after extensive research and testing of prototypes. The design process involved the participation of all people involved with the rickshaws whether it be the rickshaw drivers and passengers or the manufacturers and assemblers, and others like the ones from the tourist industry. The final outcome has almost total acceptability. The weight of the vehicle has been reduced by more than 30% (55 kilo as compared to 90 kilos) by means of an integral tubular frame that has excellent structural qualities. The provision of a multi gear system specifically designed for rickshaws have given the rickshaw driver is at a tremendous advantage. He gets less stressed and can ply more in a day without harming his health. The center of gravity has been lowered by about a third greatly improving the stability of the vehicle. Independent studies on the rickshaw drivers plying these modern rickshaws have shown that they can ply them for a third longer and average earnings have gone up by close to 60%. Increase in earnings can also be attributed to the very comfortable passenger seat that is woven with nylon strap on the tublar frame. It provides comfortable and safe seating with adequate suspension hence giving a jerk free ride. With a low step in height, space for luggage and other passenger friendly features like a permanent top which provides year round protection from sun and rain, the users are ready to pay more for the added comfort and more so, the safety. Issues such as ergonomic road safety, low maintenance and longevity of the vehicle are among other issues that were of prime consideration in the design process.

Special Features:
Integral tubular frame; Safety and Comfort of both passenger and driver; Reduction in weight by 30%; Multi gears; Improved earning s of the driver; Improved aesthetics; Low maintenance of the new design.

Prospective users
Cycle Rickshaw Manufacturing industries, Tour Agencies, Rickshaw Contractors, Sanctuaries, National Parks, Protected Areas.

Keywords:
Cycle Rickshaw, Integral Construction, Ergonomics, Environment, Ecodesign, Pedal Power, Sustainable Transport

Type of Technology:
Product.

Status of IPR Protection:
Not applied

For further informatiom, Please contact directly the faculty member/inventor under intimation to Managing Director, FITT, sengupta@fitt.iitd.ernet.in.