‍PacCycle is an innovative bike counter designed to promote cycling and enhance community engagement through a fun, interactive display. Shaped like a giant Pac-Man, the installation is placed on the side of a public road frequented by cyclists. As cyclists pass by, PacCycle lights up in vibrant colors, and the iconic Pac-Man "mouth" animates as if it is "eating" the cyclists. This playful interaction aims to raise awareness about the number of cyclists using the road while adding a touch of nostalgia and enjoyment to the urban landscape.

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Key Features:

1. Interactive Design: A large, eye-catching Pac-Man sculpture that reacts to passing cyclists by lighting up and animating, making the data collection process both functional and entertaining.
2. Cyclist Detection: Equipped with sensors that detect cyclists in real-time, triggering Pac-Man's animations and LED lights to create a visual response.
3. LED Display: Displays the cumulative number of cyclists that have passed by in a day, week, or month, promoting awareness of bike usage.
4. Sustainable Power: Powered by solar panels and energy-efficient LEDs, ensuring the installation is environmentally friendly.
5. Data Collection & Connectivity: Collects anonymous data on bike traffic patterns, which can be used for urban planning and transportation studies. Data can be accessed remotely via a connected app or website.

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Project Goals:

• Promote Cycling: Encourage more people to choose cycling as a mode of transport by highlighting the number of cyclists on the road.
• Enhance Public Space: Use playful, nostalgic design to create a visually engaging public installation that brings joy and curiosity to passersby.
• Data-Driven Planning: Provide valuable data to city planners and community members to support the development of cycling infrastructure and policies.

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Implementation Plan:

1. Design & Fabrication: Create the Pac-Man structure with durable, weather-resistant materials and integrate LED lighting and sensors.
2. Installation: Securely install the bike counter on the designated roadside location, ensuring visibility and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians.
3. Testing & Calibration: Fine-tune the sensors and lighting system to ensure accurate detection and a seamless visual display.
4. Launch Event: Organize a community event to unveil the PacCycle, involving local cyclists, media, and city officials to promote the project.

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Impact:

‍PacCycle is not just a functional tool but a vibrant, interactive piece of public art that celebrates cycling culture. By making data collection engaging and visible, it encourages more sustainable transportation choices and fosters a sense of community among cyclists and residents.