An exclusive UK licence has been obtained for an automated bicycle parking system developed by Tokyo-based engineering firm Giken Ltd., Bikebiz reported on 28 January.
Eco Cycle, which has been used successfully in Japan since 2002, is suitable for local authorities, universities, railway stations, and new-build high-rise housing and commercial buildings.
The system is able to securely store up to 204 bicycles and any belongings left on them. It uses a slotted rack equipped with a robot arm to clasp the front wheel of a bicycle and pull it into, or retrieve it from, the unit in 13 seconds.