Design of a compact and innovative bike trailer for ROOL.
The goal was to develop a universal cycling solution capable of replacing a car trunk for transporting groceries or goods. One of the main challenge was to create a design compact enough to meet urban constraints.
Services
Industrial Design, Strategy & Innovation, Concept development, Sustainability, DMF (Design for Manufacturing), DFA (Design for Assembly), Prototyping, Production, Supplier Sourcing, Brand building & Visualization
Industrial Design, Strategy & Innovation, Concept development, Sustainability, DMF (Design for Manufacturing), DFA (Design for Assembly), Prototyping, Production, Supplier Sourcing, Brand building & Visualization
Process
Analyze ‣ Define ‣ Research & Development ‣ Prototype ‣ Test ‣ Refine ‣ Produce & Assemble ‣ Sell & Promote
Analyze ‣ Define ‣ Research & Development ‣ Prototype ‣ Test ‣ Refine ‣ Produce & Assemble ‣ Sell & Promote
Analysis & Conceptualization
Without a cycling solution, many cyclists continue to rely on cars for grocery shopping in the city.
How can groceries and equipment be transported by bike?
How can groceries and equipment be transported by bike?
A universal solution was looked for to adapt to all types of bikes (cargo bikes, electric bikes, and traditional bikes). Due to the diversity of bicycles, designing a widely compatible fitting proved impossible.
An independent trailer functions like a trunk attached to the bike, offering an economical alternative to cargo bikes, which are expensive, bulky, and difficult to secure.
Research & Development
Exploring technical and functional solutions through iterations combining brainstorming, prototyping, and testing.
Key Principles Developed
- A main metal sheet that structures the trailer and forms the platform.
- Small wheels positioned beneath the platform: allow the transport of overhanging objects.
- Articulated arm: optimizes space-saving and facilitates walking mobility.
- Central, wide stand: provides a stable platform for loading.
From Prototype to Production
Producing locally is expensive! From the prototype to the finished product, a rigorous streamlining process was carried out to reduce the number of components and simplify mechanical elements in order to reduce the production cost.
Key Decisions Made to Reduce Production Costs:
- Using steel instead of aluminum for the platform: Steel, being cheaper and harder, eliminated the need for additional parts that reinforced aluminum in high-stress areas, such as the wheel axle.
- Simplifying the wheel axle: The axle is now manufactured as a single piece, and the wheels are secured with nuts equipped with a system to prevent loosening.
- Optimizing the articulated arm system: Certain specialized components were removed, simplifying the mechanism.
Expanding the Willy Trailer Range
Following the success of the original Willy trailer, the design process led to the development of a full product range, offering solutions for different users. The Willy Light was created as an entry-level model, providing a lightweight and affordable option for everyday cyclists. At the other end of the range, the Willy Cargo was designed for professionals needing a more robust solution for transporting heavier loads. Each model maintains the core design principles: capacity, versatility, and durability, ensuring practical and efficient transport solutions for various needs. The approach focused on streamlining components, optimizing materials, and maintaining ease of use, while adapting to different user demands, from casual riders to businesses looking for a cost-effective cargo alternative.
Brand Building & Visualization
Developing the Willy trailer range involved not only designing the product but also creating a strong and recognizable brand identity. In collaboration with Studio Demain il fera beau, we worked on crafting a visual and digital presence that reflects the trailer’s innovation, practicality, and versatility.
Key achievements include
- Logo & Visual Identity: Designing a clean and modern logo that embodies the brand’s spirit—functional, adaptable, and user-friendly.
- Website & Digital Presence: Developing a dedicated website to present the product range, highlight key features, and provide a seamless user experience for potential buyers.
- Commercial Visuals: Producing high-quality images and videos to showcase the trailers in real-life scenarios, emphasizing their functionality and ease of use.
- Social Media Content: Creating engaging content tailored for various platforms to connect with the cycling community, increase brand awareness, and inspire potential users.
Through this comprehensive approach, the brand communicates not just a product, but a lifestyle and a solution for urban mobility.
EUROBIKE Award 2023 – Recognizing Innovation
Willy Trailer was honored with the EUROBIKE Award 2023, one of the most prestigious distinctions in the bicycle and future mobility industry. This award celebrates innovative and high-quality new products, recognizing Willy for its outstanding design and functionality. More than just a prize, the award highlights emerging industry trends and supports the development and market success of groundbreaking solutions.
Design Innovations Developed
Combination of the Arm and Stand
The arm forms the stand when raised. A simple click allows switching between positions. The stand provides support across the entire width, making the trailer ultra-stable during loading.
The arm forms the stand when raised. A simple click allows switching between positions. The stand provides support across the entire width, making the trailer ultra-stable during loading.
It can carry bigger
The Willy Cargo is capable of transporting objects of all sizes thanks to its platform positioned higher than its wheels.
Use as a Hand Truck
On foot, the trailer transforms into a hand truck thanks to its rear-positioned wheels, allowing you to switch from biking to walking without any modifications.
An optional safety plate is very practical for further tilting the cart, transporting heavy loads, and navigating stairs.
On foot, the trailer transforms into a hand truck thanks to its rear-positioned wheels, allowing you to switch from biking to walking without any modifications.
An optional safety plate is very practical for further tilting the cart, transporting heavy loads, and navigating stairs.
