Design agency Futurewave designed a 3D printed bicycle made of metal, which eliminates the need for welding and tooling parts.

Traditional bike manufacturing techniques have their downsides. Specific parts are made in moulds, and this makes tooling very expensive. In addition, replacing parts can be complex due to their lack of standardisation.

To counter this, Futurewave tried to create standardised parts for bicycle frames. However, another problem lies in the aesthetics. Achieving aesthetically pleasing junctions with standardised parts is difficult. This is why Futurewave turned to 3D printing, rather than moulding. 3D printing technology allows for more freedom in design, as well as to create precise and elegant junctions, while maintaining standardisation.

Made of aluminium, the parts have organic shapes in the junctions, using biomimicry to optimise the design. The parts integrate multiple functionalities while maintaining a minimalist and streamlined aesthetic.

The patented system works like ‘plug and play’; the parts fit perfectly into one another, eliminating the need for precision tooling and welding. This allows for an easy replacement of parts. For instance, a bicycle initially designed for a child could be transformed into an adult bicycle by retaining some parts and replacing others.

Called Alyx, the bicycle is also outfitted with a battery, which is intentionally left exposed, rather than integrated in the frame.

Photos: Futurewave