We’ve seen a few camera mounts that provide that “rear view” for riders and at last week’s Interbike trade show the Hindsight 35 was one that truly could turn heads – or rather keep riders from turning their heads. This offers a seat post mounted digital camera that provides the view from behind as a handlebar mounted display allows riders to see with just a downward glance. Continue reading Interbike 2012: Eyes in the Back of Your Bike
Tag: computer
3D Printed Garmin Cycle Mount
Yesterday we noted that Garmin has released its own cycle mount for its Edge line of bicycle computers. But if you don’t care for the Garmin official mount, or can’t find it – or the Bar Fly, K-Edge, 3T or Quarg mounts – you could also look to RaceWare Direct and have your own colorful mount printed! That’s right, RaceWare is using the latest in 3D printer technology to run off the mounts and in a selection of colors.
The mounts are nylon based and the benefit of these custom 3D printed mounts it that these can be made to the exact diameter of your handbars!
Bike Offers Laptop Compartment
We’ve seen numerous ways of bringing a laptop when traveling on a bike. Most solutions call for the computer to ride in a bag or side pouch, and last December we saw the Samsung Galaxy Tab bike – but now Peugeot is taking it a step further with its DL122 bicycle.
The company, which started producing bikes in 1882, has introduced a lot of bicycle innovation and the concept here is that a laptop can ride within the frame. Actually it makes use of what is traditionally the open front triangle of the bike between the down tube, seat tube and top tube, and by placing a heavier object here – instead of on the side or back – it should help with the center of gravity. It also helps protect the laptop should the rider fall or crash – of course this is because the rider is also providing that protection, but given how some value their laptops, this might be a small price to pay.
[Via Gizmag: Peugeot’s elegant DL122 – the bicycle with a laptop compartment]
Wearable Computer
Over the years technology designed for the battlefield has made its way to the commercial sector. The latest device that might just turn heads is Black Diamond Advanced Technology’s MTS (Modular Tactical System) wearable ultra-rugged PC. This new system is available as a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) system, where parts can be mixed and matched as needed. The system has been tested in the rugged terrain of Afghanistan, and was optimized for dismounted use with command, control, communications, computer, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR for those in the know).
The system essentially places the MTS computer right on the wearer’s chest in the backpack. While based on COTS, this doesn’t mean that it is actually commercially available right now. However, we already see the potential for civilian applications. Who wouldn’t want to wear their rugged computer? Continue reading Wearable Computer
TIME to Ride with StemCAPtain
We’ve seen no shortage of cycle computers, and today these feature GPS in addition to tracking distance, calories burned and of course speed. But a pair of Colorado mountain bikers, Graeson Lewis and Mike Hogan, have opted for a more retro and stylish approach with their StemCAPtain clocks.
Essentially, the device replaces the generic – and frankly boring – handlebar stem cap with a timepiece or other similar round gizmo. These include waterproof thermometer or compass (think of that as old school GPS). The installation is simple enough. Remove the old stem cap and replace it with the aluminum base of the StemCAPtain and then snap in the clock or other insert. A silicone gasket at the bottom reportedly keeps it snug and rattle-free.
So do these caps do anything that a cycle computer doesn’t do? Not really, but it is a sort of nifty and easy swap out, and can add a bit of individuality to a bike. The StemCAPtain is available directly from the company, with prices ranging from $19.95 to $26.95 US. Time to ride.
[Via Gizmag.com: StemCAPtain – not a bike lock, but a bike CLOCK]
CES 2011: GammaTech Gets Tough
There are times when the going gets tough, and in some of those times you need to keep the computer going. At this week’s Consumer Electronics Show GammaTech will roll out its line of military-grade rugged notebooks and tablet computers.
Among the line of products to be shown include:
* The D12C – 12.1″ mobile rugged, convertible notebook computer
* The D15C – 15.6″ rugged portable notebook computer
* The MT10L – 10.4″ Intel Health Mobile Clinical Assistant tablet PC
So move over iPad, you might be great for the living room. But for those who need to do more than sit on a couch, GammaTech is the name to beat.
Rugged Convertible Notebook for World Travelers
Planning a trip around the world, or just need to update your Facebook page while you’re off hiking? Either way the GammaTech D12C rugged notebook will survive the journey. This convertible notebook does the transformer thing, going from a traditional notebook to a tablet in a blink of the eye. It features a 12.1-inch Touch Screen display, along with a Web cam and HD stereo audio.
It is drop and shock resistant and tested to stringent MIL-STD-810G requirements. It further features a unique spill resistant design protects it from accidental spills, utilizing a C-face that helps protect the area around the keyboard, touchpad, speakers and wireless and power switches. When off in the wild the D12C is practically air tight as all input/output ports are fully dust resistant as well. Continue reading Rugged Convertible Notebook for World Travelers
FitByFun Offers PC Workouts
- FitbyFun.com
If you don’t have a Nintendo Wii but want the same basic coaching with your workout, power up the PC (chances are if you’re reading this it is already on), and go to FitByFun.com. The site offers the same Mii styled characters that you’d get on the Wii, and this game offers motions that you can copy.
There is no controller to track your movements however, so it is more a monkey see and monkey do thing, much like the old video workouts. But an online fitness instructor will give you directions, and based on the workout you choose the game’s display will tell you how many calories you’ve burned. This is again more game that true workout routine, but as a game it feels a lot less like a “routine.” And unlike many other games this one can keep track of your workout, so you can actually review your progress over time.
What makes this website workout really work checking out is that it is web-based (obviously), and as such can be done via a laptop – so this is good for those road warriors who can’t take along a Wii. And since it is designed like a class, it is a bit like hitting the gym, even when your’e traveling.
It won’t replace other workouts and as it is interactive you’re only going to get as much out of it as you put in. But if you’re looking to get started, and like to spend time in front of the computer, this one does offer some fun to your fitness.