MyPowerbank hacks bicycles so the homeless can juice up their phones

Central Saint Martins graduate Luke Talbot has developed a solution to assist people experiencing homelessness in charging their phones for free, by hacking them. Dubbed MyPowerbank, Talbot's creation is a portable charger that can be attached to the chain of a stationary Santander bicycle. The integrated dynamo then converts the rotational motion into electrical energy, which is then stored in the powerbank's internal batteries.

Displayed as part of the Design Transforms exhibition at CSM during the London Design Festival, MyPowerbank aims to address the common struggle among homeless individuals to find places to charge their phones. Talbot's inspiration came from his interactions with homeless individuals across London, where he discovered that owning a phone is crucial for accessing essential digital services but finding reliable charging options posed a significant challenge.

MyPowerbank represents a small but meaningful step towards addressing the digital divide and empowering homeless individuals to navigate the challenges of modern life.

The device operates by harnessing the kinetic energy generated by peddling. Approximately 25 minutes of peddling equates to a full phone charge, providing a practical and sustainable solution to the charging dilemma faced by homeless individuals. With the prototype successfully developed, Talbot aims to refine the design and streamline production to make MyPowerbank even more accessible and efficient by collaborating with charities or NGOs. He envisions distributing the power banks to homeless shelters, ensuring they reach those who need them most.

Talbot's project stems from his research into anti-homeless architecture and urban infrastructure, which often exacerbates the challenges faced by marginalised communities. Inspired by the concept of repurposing existing resources for the benefit of those in need, Talbot sought to create a tangible intervention that could positively impact the lives of homeless individuals.

Talbot's innovative approach demonstrates the transformative potential of design in addressing social issues and fostering technological inclusivity within our communities.

MyPowerbank represents a small but meaningful step towards addressing the digital divide and empowering homeless individuals to navigate the challenges of modern life. Talbot's innovative approach demonstrates the transformative potential of design in addressing social issues and fostering technological inclusivity within our communities.