GameLight

GameLight is a smart bicycle light that overlays a virtual game projected on the ground, within the user’s natural field of view while cycling. 

The system aims to investigate how to enhance the cycling exertion experience by augmenting it with various game elements presented in different game modes. The system consists of a pico-projector and mobile phone wirelessly connected to cadence, speed and heart rate sensors that serve as input to the virtually projected game to achieve a fun and playful effect while cycling.

The team ran a pilot study that compared three conditions:

1. An “Arcade” mode that implements a virtual coin collecting mechanic
2. A “Challenge” mode that provides timed effort challenges
3. Riding with cycling data viewed on a smartphone mounted on the bicycle handlebars

The study has indicated that the augmented game elements resulted in significantly higher levels of flow and increased exercise benefits (heart rate) as compared to conventional cycling. However, there were still valid concerns on the safety of such systems when used in uncontrolled real-world circumstances, as users may be overly engrossed in the augmented visuals. It is important to highlight that the original intention was to enhance the safety of cyclists in the park, using a much more visible projected light to attract the attention of other shared path users.