The most important economic sector in the Lausitz region, alongside open-cast mining, is tourism. For most visitors, it is primarily the landscape and the peaceful nature, but the vibrant organic and regional culture is increasingly becoming an attraction as well. In fact, there are numerous farms here that specialize in producing organic foods and selling their products at regional markets or in their own farm shops. In line with the ecological mindset, the organic culture of the Lausitz is now often explored through organized cycling tours.

However, there is a drawback: while these excursions allow people to buy all kinds of organic products, there are often no comfortable opportunities to enjoy them on site or in nearby nature. This led to the idea of developing a multifunctional picnic set that can be attached to the bicycle frame.

The main element is a table that can be unfolded through a folding mechanism into a size suitable for one to three people and can be set up stably with just a few simple steps. When folded, it offers storage space for suitable cutlery and plates or small boards. In the current design, the construction is made from thin/light plywood reinforced with textile glue — simple, affordable, and sustainable materials.

The starting point for this design lies in the scenario described above. It could become a standard piece of equipment for organized cycling tours in the Lausitz, where ecological shopping and a shared picnic on the meadow are part of the program. As a product for individual cyclists, sold in bike shops, general stores, regional markets, or organic farm shops, it could reach a broader audience. Ultimately, its use does not have to be limited to the Lausitz. On the one hand, local elements could be incorporated into the further design; on the other hand, an international edition positioned in a higher price segment could be developed.

Tags

regional urban

Supervisor(s)

Prof. Susanne Schwarz-Raacke, Prof. Dr. Zane Berzina, Prof. Steffen Schuhmann