SenseBike: A New Low-Cost Mobile-Networked Sensor System for Cyclists to Monitor Air Quality and Automatically Measure Passing Distances in Urban Traffic

This study presents the development and validation of a low-cost, open-source sensor system for cyclists that automatically detects vehicle overtaking events while simultaneously monitoring air quality. The system integrates multiple ultrasonic sensors for autonomous overtaking detection and distance measurement with environmental sensors that record particulate matter, temperature, humidity, and GPS position. By combining these data streams, the system enables the analysis of correlations between traffic interactions and variations in particulate matter exposure under real-world cycling conditions. Test rides conducted in urban environments demonstrated that the system reliably identifies overtaking maneuvers and records corresponding environmental parameters. Elevated concentrations of particulate matter were observed during close vehicle passes and at traffic lights, highlighting moments of increased exposure to exhaust emissions. The automated detection mechanism eliminates the need for manual activation, ensuring complete and unbiased data collection. The modular design and energy-efficient operation of the system allow for flexible deployment in both mobile and stationary configurations. With its ability to objectively capture and relate safety and environmental data, the presented platform provides a foundation for large-scale field studies aimed at improving cyclist safety and understanding pollution exposure in urban traffic.