HR Bank
Your home's power bank.
Client
Tukas EV
Year
2022
Category
Industrial design
Link
Awards
National "good design" 2023 award.
"A pretty remarkable invention that combines fitness and energy production in one device.” - Fox News
The product
The HR Bank by Tukas EV is an innovative home energy solution that seamlessly combines energy storage, generation, and physical fitness. Designed to integrate with renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines, it stores excess energy and ensures a stable power supply for your appliances, even during blackouts.
The brief
We've been collaborating with Tukas EV for about a year on a (classified under NDA) electric vehicle project, when a war in Ukraine broke out just a few hundred kilometers away from us. Founders were struck by this and the image of people in bomb shelters. We saw them using multiple extension chords in order to charge their phones, so they could follow what's happening and seek safety. At the same time we realized how easy it is to overestimate the reliability of our modern energy grid and the need to protect our families in case the access to energy is lost due to conflicts, cyber attacks or natural disasters. We decided to put our EV project on hold and create a solution that could ensure energy independence for those in need. The initial brief was as follows: By utilising Tukas EV existing CNC machinery and electrical engineering expertise, create a product that would function as a large power bank during blackouts and could be charged from any source. Even if no energy source is available, it could be charged by pedalling.
Versatile Energy Management
Equipped with a 2 kWh integrated battery, the HR Bank offers multiple charging options. It can harness energy from various sources, including solar panels, wind turbines, and human power through pedaling. This versatility ensures that you have a reliable backup power solution, capable of powering critical devices and equipment when needed.
Promoting Physical Activity
Beyond its energy storage capabilities, the HR Bank functions as a fully equipped exercise machine. Users can generate electricity by pedaling, with the added benefit of tracking key workout metrics through a "sports mode." This feature not only promotes physical fitness but also provides a tangible way to contribute to your home's energy needs.
Adjustable and User-Friendly Design
The HR Bank is designed for users of all ages and sizes. Its fully adjustable pedals, saddle, and handlebars allow for a wide range of positions and configurations, ensuring optimal comfort and safety. This makes it suitable for adults, children, athletes, and seniors alike. The device can accommodate users weighing up to 150 kg and standing between 120 cm and 230 cm tall.
Dynamic Workstation Integration
With the addition of a desk accessory, the HR Bank transforms into a dynamic workstation. This feature allows users to use their laptop, tablet, phone, or any other device while generating enough power by pedaling to keep them powered on. The desk can be mounted on the handlebars in just two seconds, providing a seamless transition between exercise and work.
Sustainable and Customizable Materials
Crafted from sustainable and recycled materials, the HR Bank emphasizes environmental responsibility. It utilizes recycled aluminum and FSC-certified birch, ensuring durability and longevity. An online 3D configurator allows users to design their own HR Bank by choosing from a wide variety of materials and colors, ensuring that it complements any home interior.
Try out the configurator
Built for Longevity and Easy Maintenance
The HR Bank is built for longevity and easy maintenance. High-quality, durable materials are used, and unlike most modern electronics, it can be disassembled, and parts can be replaced. This design philosophy ensures that the HR Bank remains a lasting and irreplaceable part of your home.
Designed and manufactured in Lithuania by Tukas EV, the HR Bank reflects a commitment to a sustainable and efficient energy future. By integrating energy storage, physical fitness, and customizable design, it offers a comprehensive solution for modern energy management.
Materials
HR Bank is made mostly out of aluminium. We source recycled aluminium from our partners in Sweden. Using solar and hydro energy they produce 8 types of aluminium extrusions for us, which we then machine in our factory. Aluminum is ideal due to its durability, versatility, and infinite recyclability; about 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use today.
Other materials include stained FSC-certified birch plywood, vegan leather and natural leather. These materials were selected with long usage in mind. We want them to wear well over time and maintain premium feel.
All parts are easily repairable and replaceable, which means HR Bank can be used for a very long time. For example: once a more efficient battery technology becomes available we should be able to offer replacements.
Despite the product's substantial internal battery capacity of 2kWh, which adds to its weight, portability was one of the goals. To achieve this, we equipped the HR Bank with transportation wheels at the front. It can be tilted and moved around easily, much like luggage. Additionally, there are handles on top for lifting, again designed with luggage in mind.
Final product
The HR Bank is the most versatile energy storage device on the market. It can store energy from almost any source imaginable, ensuring flexibility and convenience. In the absence of external energy sources, users can generate electricity by pedalling it like an exercise bike. The energy output is pure sine wave, making it ideal even for high-end audio equipment. Additionally, the HR Bank doubles as an exercise bike, promoting fitness, and with an optional accessory, it can transform into a dynamic workstation in just two seconds.
With the handlebars and saddle removed, the HR Bank resembles a piece of minimalist luggage. As a large product intended for home use, whether as a power bank or an exercise bike, we treat it as an integral part of the interior, much like a piece of furniture. Featuring precise finishes and high-quality materials, the HR Bank seamlessly blends into modern interiors, eliminating the need to hide it.
