Roly
Mushroom Based Bicycle Helmet
Roly is focused on identifying sustainable design problems, exploring sustainable design issues, principles and processes, then designing a product that is enticing, sustainable, useful and manufacturable.
Industrial Design | 6 weeks | 2021
The Problem
Styrofoam helmets take over 500 years to break down and never really decompose. Biking itself is an extremely sustainable method of transportation. Its only requirement for energy is man-power, and its further popularity will be a benefit to the environment by reducing the amount of cars on the road. So how can it be designed to help and improve the planet?
About
Bicycle helmets protect the riders from head injuries and prevent fatal ones from occurring. However, helmet use varies greatly between populations and between groups. Downhill mountain bikers and amateur sportive cyclists normally wear helmets. Utility cyclists are less likely to wear helmets unless compelled. Why they should reconsider: Ninety percent of cyclist deaths are caused by collisions with motor vehicles.
Research
Mycelium is the mass of branched fibers making up a fungus. It is a safe, strong, and biodegradable material with a wide range of uses. However, unlike plastics and other synthetic materials – which can take hundreds of years to decompose – mycelium-based products naturally degrade after their intended product cycle.
Mycelium offers natural shock absorption and biodegradability, providing eco-friendly protection while reducing environmental impact.
Market
Products that are currently being produced with mycellium + substrate
Material Testing
Exploring the structure and viability of mycelium as a material choice. Growing mycelium molds can take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on different factors. It involves several stages, like starting with mycelium culture and letting it grow and strengthen over time.
Key Features
Biodegradable
Replaceable molded mycelium parts that will naturally degrade
Collapsable
Hinge pins to collapse the accordion down for easier carrying
Refillable
The base is refillable and designed to hold mycelium parts, which can be attached and folded into place. It also features an adjustable chin strap with a sewn and looped design.
