Crank angle indicator system

Abstract

Crank angle indicator system (10) comprising: a crank angle detector (34) configured to detect a crank angle of a crankshaft (12) of a pedal device (1); and a display device (38) configured to output at least one of an acoustic and a haptic display after the detected crank angle has reached a predetermined crank angle, and is configured to output a display to provide an indication to a driver to load and / or unload the pedals (16) based on a current crank angle of the crankshaft (12) of the pedal device (1), wherein the predetermined crank angle is set according to a user-configurable setting, and wherein the predetermined crank angle is a first predetermined crank angle and the crank angle detector (34) is further configured to detect a second predetermined crank angle; and the display device (38) is configured to output a first display and a second display after the detected crank angle has reached the first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle, respectively, wherein the first display and the second display are each at least an acoustic and a haptic display, and wherein the second predetermined crank angle is / is set according to a user-configurable setting, in particular the first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle are different angles.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] This application claims priority to US patent application 14 / 498,743, filed September 26, 2014. The entire disclosure of US patent application US 14 / 498,743 is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] For cyclists, proper pedaling technique is an essential component of a good training program. By increasing the force applied to the pedals at specific positions in the pedaling cycle, cyclists can achieve optimal efficiency and power output during pedaling. However, achieving optimal timing of pedal force application can be an elusive goal.

[0003] In one known system to assist cyclists in these matters, a crank angle is measured via a crank angle sensor, and then a visual indication is displayed on a bike computer display mounted on the bicycle's handlebars when the crank is at a certain angle. This approach suffers from the disadvantage of requiring the cyclist to focus their attention on a display mounted on the handlebars or wrist, which can be inconvenient if the cyclist wishes to shift their attention elsewhere during a training session.

[0004] From the prior art (US 4 856 996 A, US 2010 / 0 024 590 A1, US 2012 / 0 330 572 A1, US 2013 / 0 019 700 A1 and US 2014 / 0 315 693 A1) systems are known which show a pedal device comprising a crankshaft, pedal arms and pedals. SUMMARY

[0005] To address the above issues, a crank angle indicator system is provided. According to a first aspect of the present invention, the crank angle indicator system may include a crank angle detector configured to detect a crank angle of a crankshaft of a pedal device and may include an indicator configured to output at least one of an audible and a haptic indication after the detected crank angle has reached a predetermined crank angle and configured to output an indication to provide an indication to a driver to apply and / or release the pedals based on a current crank angle of the crankshaft of the pedal device. The predetermined crank angle is / is set according to a user-configurable setting.A potential advantage of this configuration is that the cyclist can time the loading and / or unloading of the pedals at different positions of the crank drive and optimize the settings to adapt them to different technique training sessions. The predetermined crank angle is a first predetermined crank angle, and the crank angle detector is further configured to detect a second predetermined crank angle. The indicator is configured to output at least one of an audible and a haptic indication after the detected crank angle has reached the first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle, respectively. A potential advantage of this is that the system can detect angles at which each of the right and left pedals should be loaded, for example, using these first and second predetermined angles.The second predetermined crank angle is / will be set according to a user-configurable setting. A potential advantage of this configuration is that the cyclist can time the loading and / or unloading of the pedals at different positions of the crank drive and optimize the settings to adapt to different technique training sessions.

[0006] Preferably, the first predetermined crank angles and the second predetermined crank angles can be different angles. A possible advantage of this is that the system can indicate different positions within the rotation of the pedals at which loading should be applied, for example, during either a downward pedal movement or an upward pedal movement.

[0007] Preferably, the left and right predetermined crank angles can be substantially separated by 180 degrees. The 180-degree separation allows the system to indicate an angle at which both the right and left pedals should be loaded during the downward movement.

[0008] Preferably, the first indicator and the second indicator can be distinguished acoustically and / or haptically. A potential advantage of this configuration is that the cyclist can distinguish between the first and second indicators, allowing the cyclist to understand their meanings as quickly as possible. For example, one indicator can be intended for the left foot and the other for the right foot, or one can be intended for downward movement and the other for upward movement, etc.

[0009] Preferably, at least one of an acoustic and haptic indicator can be provided over a rotational angle range of the detected crank angle. A potential advantage of this configuration is that it can indicate to the cyclist not only an initial timing, but also a range over which the load should be applied. Additionally, such an indicator can be more conspicuous to a cyclist and thus more difficult to miss.

[0010] Preferably, an acoustic or haptic characteristic of at least one of the at least one acoustic and haptic indicator can vary as it is output across the rotation angle range. A potential advantage of this configuration is that the varying characteristic of the indicator can indicate to the rider, for example, a desired peak intensity or a decreasing intensity of the load. Additionally, the varying characteristic can be more noticeable to the cyclist and thus difficult to miss.

[0011] Preferably, the crank angle indicator system may comprise a processor executing program logic configured to receive the detector signal from the crank angle detector, to display a detected crank angle, and to output an angle indicator signal, particularly after detecting that the detected crank angle has reached a predetermined crank angle. Furthermore, the display device may be configured to receive the angle indicator signal and, in response, output at least one of an audible and haptic indicator. A potential advantage of this configuration is that the processor provides a reliable configuration for seamlessly transmitting information from the crank angle detector to the display device.

[0012] Preferably, the processor may be a processor for an on-board computer device mountable on the pedal device. A potential advantage of this configuration is that the processor can be installed on the pedal device rather than being worn on the cyclist's clothing or, for example, being mounted externally to the pedal device. This is particularly useful when the pedal device is a mobile bicycle rather than a stationary exercise bike.

[0013] Preferably, the input device can be configured to selectively activate and deactivate the display device. A possible advantage of this configuration is to provide a simple method for turning off the display device, in particular any acoustic or haptic display device, when the pedal device is not being used for training.

[0014] Preferably, at least one of the at least one acoustic and haptic indicator can be an acoustic indicator, and the indicator device can be a loudspeaker that outputs the acoustic indicator. A potential advantage of this configuration is that the cyclist does not have to direct or focus their attention on a visual display if they want to focus their attention elsewhere during a training session.

[0015] Preferably, the loudspeaker can be located on an on-board computer device coupled to the pedal device. The configuration combining the loudspeaker with the on-board computer device achieves the potential advantage of reducing the number of components requiring attachment to the pedal device.

[0016] Preferably, the speaker can be housed in a headset. This adds the potential benefit of providing the cyclist with a personalized signal that is essentially inaudible to other cyclists or bystanders.

[0017] Preferably, at least one of the at least one acoustic and haptic indicator can be a haptic indicator, and the indicator device can be a vibration device configured to output vibrations as the haptic indicator. Vibration has the potential advantage of being a personalized form of signaling that is unnoticeable to bystanders. Furthermore, vibration does not require a speaker or headphones for transmission, thus allowing the cyclist to hear other sounds in the environment, such as instructions from the coaching staff or cheers from spectators, without any disturbance.

[0018] Preferably, the vibration device can be coupled for vibration transmission to at least one of a handlebar of the pedal device, a seat of the pedal device, a pedal of the pedal device, and a wristwatch of a rider of the pedal device. A possible advantage of this configuration is that the haptic indication of the vibration indication can be easily felt by the cyclist, since the cyclist's hands, buttocks, feet, and wrists are in contact with these components and devices.

[0019] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a selection of concepts described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that resolve any or all of the disadvantages disclosed in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like elements, in which: Fig. 1 shows a side view of an exemplary pedal device; Fig. 2 is a block diagram relating to the crank angle detector, the computing device, and the display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the phases of the pedal crank cycle; Fig. 4 is a schematic view of a graphical user interface (GUI), preferably implemented on an interactive display device, in which the user can input predetermined crank angles according to a user-configurable setting; Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic view of four of the possible user-configurable settings on the GUI for the crank angle indicator system; Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating exemplary program logic executed by the processor of a computing device that receives an output from a crank angle detector and sends a signal to a display device to provide an indication when only a predetermined crank angle is provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating exemplary program logic executed by the processor of a computing device that receives an output from a crank angle detector and sends a signal to a display device to output an indication when two predetermined crank angles are provided, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating exemplary program logic executed by the processor of a computing device that receives an output from a crank angle detector and sends a signal to a display device to output an indication when four predetermined crank angles are provided, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating further exemplary program logic executed by the processor of a computing device that receives an output from a crank angle detector and sends a signal to a display device to output an indication when four predetermined crank angles are provided, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 1 has been drawn approximately to scale unless otherwise stated, however other appropriate dimensions may be used if needed and / or desired. Detailed description

[0022] A selected embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following description of an embodiment of the invention is provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0023] Firstly, referring to Fig. 1, a pedal device 1 is illustrated incorporating a crank angle indicator system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. The pedal device 1 is illustrated as a bicycle, but may include other pedal devices 1 such as a stationary bicycle trainer, etc., as described below. The pedal device 1 includes, among other things, a crankshaft 12 coupled to the pedals 16 through the crank arms 14. The crankshaft 12 is coupled to rotate co-directionally about a crankshaft axis (not shown) with one or more chainrings 18 and to drive a chain 20 when power is applied to the pedals 16. The power is transferred via the chain 20 to a rear sprocket assembly 22, which drives the rotation of the rear wheel 24.A front derailleur 26 for switching among a plurality of chainrings 18 that rotate co-rotating with the crank arms 14 may be provided, and a rear derailleur 28 for switching among a plurality of sprockets 30 from the rear sprocket assembly 22 may be provided, thereby transmitting a gear ratio to the pedal device 1. The pedals 16, the crank arms 14, the chainrings 18, the chain 20, and the rear sprocket assembly 22 form a drivetrain 29 configured to convert the cyclist's pedaling effort into a drive force applied to the rear wheel to propel the bicycle forward. While a multi-gear pedal device is illustrated, it should be understood that only a single front chainring and rear sprocket may be provided such that the pedal device is operated with a single gear ratio.The various components of the drive train 29 are mounted on a frame 27 of the bicycle.

[0024] The crank angle indicator system 10 includes a crank angle detector 34, which is provided on the pedal device 1 and configured to detect a crank angle of the crankshaft 12. The crank angle detector 34 may use a sensor such as a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, or an accelerator to detect the rotation of the crankshaft 12 and the crank angle. The crank angle detector 34 may be mounted at various positions near the crankshaft 12 or on a component that rotates co-rotating with the crankshaft 12, such as the crank arm 14, the pedals 16, or the chainring 18. For example, the crank angle detector 34 may be mounted within or on a bottom bracket (not shown) or on a chainstay 27a, seat tube 27b, or down tube 27c of the frame 27.

[0025] The crank angle display system 10 further includes a computing device 36, which may be in the form of a bicycle computer, as explained below. In one embodiment, the crank angle detector 34 is coupled to and communicates with an input / output module of the computing device 36 via a cable or conductor. In other embodiments, the coupling between the computing device 36 and the crank angle detector may be wireless. The computing device 36 is mountable on the handlebar 39 or at another suitable location on the pedal device 1.

[0026] The computing device 36 typically includes a connected display 42. The display 42 and the computing device 36 are provided at a suitable location, such as on the handlebar 39, such that the user can reach the computing device 36 and enter predetermined crank angles according to a user-configurable setting. Typically, the computing device 36 and the connected display 42 are enclosed in the same housing unit; however, in other embodiments, the display 42 may be provided separately from the computing device. For example, the computing device 36 may be configured to communicate with a cyclist's smartphone, which may serve as the display 42. Further, the computing device 36 may include a connected input device (not shown).The input device may be physical buttons or keys of the computer device or virtual buttons displayed on the display 42 that are touch sensitive.

[0027] The crank angle indicator system 10 further includes a display device 38. The computing device 36 communicates with the display device 38, and the display device 38 is configured to provide an indication that a particular crank angle or range of crank angles, as described below, has been met. The display device 38 may be provided at a suitable location on the pedal device 1, such as on a seat 32, handlebar 39, frame 27, or the pedals 16. While typically formed separately from the computing device 36, it is appreciated that the display device 38 may be formed integrally with the computing device 36 in an alternative embodiment. An input control, such as a physical button or hard switch 62, or a virtual button or switch (not shown) displayed on a touch-sensitive display of the computing device 36, etc., may be provided such that it is integrated with the display device 38 or formed separately therefrom, and may be configured to selectively activate and deactivate the display device 38 in response to input from a cyclist.

[0028] The display device 38 may include an acoustic output device 56 (see Fig. 2) such as a loudspeaker 31 which outputs an audible indication, which is configured to output an audible indication when the predetermined crank angle is reached. In particular embodiments, the loudspeaker 31 may be located on a computing device 36 which is on or coupled to the pedal device 1. In other embodiments, the loudspeaker may be located in a headset. The headset may be integrated within a cyclist's helmet and may receive signals via a wired or wireless connection directly with the computing device 36 or via a wired or wireless connection indirectly via other intermediate devices with which the computing device 36 communicates, such as, for example, a bicycle's smartphone.

[0029] Alternatively, the display device 38 may be a haptic output device 54 (see Fig. 2) in which a haptic indication is output when the predetermined crank angle is / will be reached. The haptic output device is typically a vibration device configured for vibratory transmission to at least one of a handlebar 39 of the pedal device 1 (see haptic output device 38c coupled to the handlebar), a seat 32 of the pedal device (see haptic output device 38b coupled to the seat), one or both pedals 16 of the pedal device (see haptic output device 38a coupled to the pedal), and a wristwatch (not shown) of a rider of the pedal device 1, wherein the wristwatch is in wireless communication directly or indirectly (e.g., via a smartphone) with the computing device 36. Alternatively, the haptic output device may be coupled to the pedal device at another suitable position for vibratory transmission to the cyclist.

[0030] Referring to Fig. 2, an exemplary on-board computer device 36 mountable to the pedal device 1 is provided with an input / output module 52 communicating with a processor 44, a non-volatile memory 46 containing stored program logic 48, and a volatile memory 50. The input / output module 52 receives an input, a detector signal, from the crank angle detector 34 and sends an angle indication signal to the indicator 38 when the crankshaft has reached a predetermined crank angle, under the command of the program logic 48 executed by the processor 44 using portions of the volatile memory 50.

[0031] The crank angle detector 34 may include a magnetic sensor or an optical sensor 45 coupled by a wire to an input / output module 52, or alternatively, wirelessly coupled to the input / output module 52. The display device 38 is configured to output at least one of an audible and haptic indication, respectively, through an audible output device 56 or a haptic output device 54, after the detected crank angle has reached a first predetermined crank angle. In one mode of operation, the indication is maintained until the second predetermined crank angle is reached and the second angle indication signal is received, as explained below. The display device 38 may be coupled directly to the computing device 36 or via an intermediate device, such as a smartphone, as explained below.The input device 40 receives user input via, for example, a touch-sensitive display 42 or, for example, a physical button, and sends the user input to the computing device 36 via the input / output module 52. The display 42 receives display signals from the computing device 36 via the input / output module 52, which causes a graphical output, such as a graphical user interface (GUI), to be displayed on the display 42. The input device 40 can accept a wide range of inputs and can include predetermined crank angles set according to a user-configurable setting, as described below.

[0032] The input device 40 is preferably a touchscreen or interactive display device, but may be a keyboard, mouse, microphone, etc. The display 42 is preferably a touch-sensitive display of the computing device 36, but may also be a television, computer monitor, wristband, mobile phone, etc. The input device 40 and the display 42 are preferably enclosed in an interactive display device executing a graphical user interface (GUI), however, the input device 40 may be provided separately from the display 42 in other embodiments.

[0033] The volatile memory 50 may include one or more memory modules and include random access memory (RAM), programmable random access memory, and / or solid-state memory. The non-volatile memory 46 may include one or more memory modules and include read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), and / or solid-state memory. The non-volatile memory may store data for later analysis. More specifically, it could store the values measured by the crank angle detector at different times, allowing a detailed analysis of pedaling style, including variations in power and cadence between the left and right pedals. This information could help the cyclist identify areas where improvements in power and pedaling efficiency could be achieved.The processor 44 may be a central processing unit, co-processor units, single-core, multi-core, system-on-chip, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other suitable logic hardware. The processor 44 is responsible for processing data for the crank angle indicator system 10. This data includes user input from the input device 40 and detector signals from the crank angle detector 34. The processor 44 executes program logic 48 configured to receive the detector signal from the crank angle detector 34, which indicates a detected crank angle, and output an angle indication signal after detecting that the detected crank angle has reached a predetermined crank angle.The processor 44 also calculates the output power, torque, cadence and other measurements of the pedal device based on the data received by the crank angle detector and sends the output to the display 42.

[0034] Referring to Fig. 3, a schematic representation of the pedal crank cycle 100 is shown. The downward movement begins at top dead center 120 as the foot and pedal move toward bottom dead center 140, with an often preferred application of a relatively constant, uniform force to the pedal throughout the movement. To maximize efficiency and performance, cyclists train to perfect the force application or load on the pedal during this phase at an appropriate time. Thus, when the indicator device 38 outputs at least one of an audible indication and a haptic indication, the predetermined crank angle may be a first predetermined crank angle, which is a left predetermined crank angle, and a second predetermined crank angle, which is a right predetermined crank angle.A first tone, which is an audible indication output when the crank angle becomes a first predetermined crank angle, and a second tone, which is an audible indication output when the crank angle becomes a second predetermined crank angle, may be different from each other. A first haptic feedback, which is a haptic indication generated when the crank angle becomes a first predetermined crank angle, and a second haptic feedback, which is a haptic indication generated when the crank angle becomes a second predetermined crank angle, may be different from each other. The first and second predetermined crank angles may be different from each other and may, for example, be separated by 180°.For example, the first predetermined crank angle may be set at a top dead center 120 and the second predetermined crank angle may be set at a bottom dead center 140, which are substantially separated by 180°. Alternatively, the angles may be set while the crank arms are substantially horizontal or may be separated by a different number of degrees other than 180°. The first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle are set via a user-configurable setting, and thus numerous other crank angle settings are possible.

[0035] The indicator device 38 is configured to output an indication and provide an indication to the cyclist to apply and / or release the pedals based on a current crank angle of the crankshaft of the pedal device. The device is configured to output at least one of an audible indication and a haptic indication after the detected crank angle has reached the first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle, respectively. Consequently, an audible indication or haptic indication is output across the rotation angle range between the predetermined crank angles, ensuring that the cyclist is notified of the current crank angle at a desired time, such as when the crank angle is within the downward movement phase 160 of the pedal crank cycle 100.This can, for example, help the cyclist to apply force in a desired manner at that time in order to improve pedaling technique.

[0036] The acoustic characteristic of the acoustic indicator may vary as it is provided across the rotation angle range; similarly, the haptic characteristic of the haptic indicator may also vary as it is provided across the rotation angle. Additionally, the system may be configured to provide an acoustic and haptic indicator simultaneously in some embodiments to enhance the cue to the cyclist. Furthermore, the system may be configured to display an acoustic indicator at a predetermined crank angle or crank angle range and display a haptic indicator at another predetermined crank angle or crank angle range.

[0037] It will be appreciated that the first and second predetermined crank angles can be adjusted over various other rotational angle ranges according to the cyclist, for example, if the cyclist wishes to emphasize other phases of the pedal crank cycle 100 in specific technique training sessions. For example, the backstroke 200 may vary from approximately 120 to 220 degrees and is a transition phase between the downward movement and the upward movement 180. The upward movement 180 begins at the bottom dead center 140 as the foot and pedal move toward the top dead center 120, and cyclists can train to emphasize an upward pull of 270° to 360° in the recovery phase 220. Finally, the overstroke 42 is a transition phase between the upward movement 180 and the downward movement 160 as the cyclist pushes forward from approximately 320 to 200 degrees.Thus, by allowing the cyclist to try different settings for the left and right predetermined crank angles, the cyclist can customize the crank angle indicator system to output an indication for a specific phase of the pedal crank cycle that is / will be customized for a specific technique training session. Furthermore, the cyclist can select a third and fourth predetermined crank angle, such that the system is also configured to output at least one of an audible and a haptic indication after the detected crank angle reaches the third predetermined crank angle and the fourth predetermined crank angle, respectively.The tones or haptic feedbacks corresponding to the third and fourth predetermined crank angles may be different from each other or may be different from the tones or haptic feedbacks corresponding to the first and second predetermined crank angles.

[0038] Referring to Fig. 4, the computer device 36 may be configured to display a graphical user interface (GUI) 58 presented on the display 42 mounted on a handlebar of the pedal device. In the embodiment of Fig. 4, the display 42 is a touch-sensitive display with an integrated input device 40 and is capable of both displaying information to the cyclist and receiving touch inputs from the cyclist, including predetermined crank angles according to the user-configurable setting. The cyclist activates the input device 40 by touching areas of the display corresponding to the GUI 58, touching controls, dials, menus, dialogs, etc. On the GUI 58, a dial 60 separates the pedal crank cycle into a plurality of zones, each representing a range of crank degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, there are 24 zones, each representing 15 crank degrees.The positions on the ranges are determined relative to the top dead center and bottom dead center positions, which are defined relative to gravity in embodiments that sense the crank angle by using accelerators or other sensors that sense gravitational force for input. Each range is independently user-configurable for the left and right predetermined crank angles, which determine the rotation angle range that, when reached, outputs an indication to the display device. In a 360° crankshaft rotation with 0° defined as the top dead center for the left crank arm, the left crank arm will reach the bottom dead center at 0° and the right crank arm will reach the top dead center at 180°, for example. The GUI 58 may include a fixed switch 62 (i.e.A user interface 58 may provide a physical button (e.g., a physical button) or a soft switch 64 to selectively activate and deactivate the display device 38. Through this use, a cyclist may, for example, turn off the displays during a training ride. Other hard or soft switches may be provided to adjust crank angles, etc. The GUI 58 may also display metrics such as total power output, torque, and cadence that are of immediate interest to the cyclist during training to improve pedaling technique. Coaches and instructors may also observe a cyclist in action and provide feedback based on the displayed metrics, and in some embodiments, may remotely adjust the crank angle and the audible and haptic displays through a separate device communicatively connected to the computing device 36 through a computer network.The system can be integrated with other measurement and display systems to account for additional measurement quantities, such as heart rate, acceleration, and pedal pressure. It is appreciated that other embodiments divide the pedal crank cycle into a different number of ranges. For example, the selector knob 60 may consist of 28, 32, 36, or 40 ranges in the pedal crank cycle, such that each range represents 12.9, 11.3, 10, or 9 degrees of crank rotation, respectively. It is appreciated that the foregoing are merely examples, and many other ranges may alternatively be applied.

[0039] The left pedal may be configured independently of the right pedal, allowing different predetermined crank angles to be selected between the right and left pedals. This is particularly applicable to pedaling devices used for training, allowing each leg to pedal independently, thereby eliminating the contribution of the contralateral leg during any movement and thereby improving the effectiveness of a specific technique workout during the ascent phase. Cyclists may also limit exercise to either the right pedal or the left pedal for other phases of the pedal-cranking cycle, particularly to improve the ability to cycle without any dead spots at the peak and trough of the cycle.Accordingly, a left switch 66a and a right switch 66b are provided on the GUI 58 to enable or disable the crank angle detector for detecting the left predetermined crank angle or the right predetermined crank angle, respectively, and to prevent the indicator from outputting an indication when said left or right predetermined crank angle is reached. Information regarding power, torque, cadence, or other measurements for each individual leg may be provided, in addition to or alternatively to information regarding the combination of both legs, so that the cyclist's performance can be more accurately monitored.

[0040] A menu bar 80 may be provided on the GUI 58, including a pause button 68, a graph button 70, a crank angle display button 72, a 1-pedal display button 74, a 2-pedal display button 76, and a record button 78. The user presses the pause button 68 to pause a recording operation or real-time display of information. The user presses the graph button 70 to view a graphical representation of power output, torque, cadence, and other measurements averaged over time. The user presses the crank angle display button 72 to view the crank angle display, which provides a selector knob that separates the pedal crank cycle into different ranges, each of which is independently configurable by the user to the left or right predetermined crank angle, which determines the rotational angle range reached for the display device to output a display.The 1-pedal display button 74 provides the user with the option to display information related to either the left pedal or the right pedal on the display. The 2-pedal display button 76 provides the user with the option to display information for both the left and right pedals on the display. The user presses the record button 78 to start recording a workout so that the recorded information can be reviewed and analyzed later.

[0041] Referring to Fig. 5, four of many possible user-configurable settings on the GUI for the crank angle display system are illustrated here. When configuring Fig. 5, the GUI allows the user to select one, two, or four predetermined crank angles to set different rotational angle ranges which, when reached, immediately cause the indicator 38 to display an indication. In the first configuration 82, the GUI allows the user to set only one predetermined crank angle which, when reached, causes the indicator to display an indication for a short, predetermined period of time. In the second configuration 84, the GUI allows the user to select two predetermined crank angles which set the rotational range reached to cause the indicator to display an indication.In the third possible configuration 68, the GUI allows the user to select two predetermined crank angles separated by substantially 180 degrees, which set the range of rotation, which, when reached, causes the indicator to output a display. In the fourth possible configuration 88, the GUI allows the user to select four predetermined angles, which set two ranges of rotation angles, which, when reached, cause the indicator to output a display. It will be appreciated that since each range of the pedal crank cycle is independently configurable, other angles and rotation angle settings are user-configurable.

[0042] Referring to Fig. 6, a flowchart illustrates a method implemented by program logic executed by the processor of the computing device that receives an output from the crank angle detector 34 and sends a signal to the display device 38 to output an indication when a predetermined crank angle has been specified, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. At step S1, the user selects the first predetermined crank angle. At step S2, the crank angle detector detects a current crank angle and sends the output to the computing device. At step S3, if the computing device detects that the crank angle has reached the predetermined crank angle, the method proceeds to step S4, and if the result is NO, the method returns to step S2. At step S4, the display device outputs an indication for a predetermined period of time and returns to step S2.

[0043] Referring to Fig. 7, a flowchart illustrates another method implemented by program logic executed by the processor of a computing device 36 that receives an output from a crank angle detector 34 and sends a signal to a display device 38 to output an indication when two predetermined crank angles are provided, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The user selects the first predetermined crank angle at step S5 and the second predetermined crank angle at step S6 on the GUI. At step S7, the crank angle detector detects a current crank angle and sends the output to the computing device. At step S8, if the computing device has detected that the crank angle has reached the predetermined crank angle, the method proceeds to step S9 and outputs an indication, and if the result is NO, the method returns to step S7.After outputting an indication at step S9, the crank angle detector again detects a current crank angle at step S10. At step S12, if the computing device has detected that the crank angle has not reached the second predetermined crank angle, the method proceeds to step S11 and outputs an audible or haptic indication, then returns to step S10. If the result is YES, the method terminates the indication at step S13 and returns to step S7.

[0044] Referring to Fig. 8, a flowchart illustrates a method implemented by the program logic executed by the processor of the computing device 36, which receives an output from the crank angle detector 34 and sends a signal to a display device 38 to output an indication when four predetermined crank angles are provided, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. At step S14 to step S17, the user selects the first, second, third, and fourth predetermined crank angles on the GUI. At step S18, the crank angle detector detects a current crank angle and sends the output to the computing device.At step S19, if the computing device detects that the current crank angle is within the rotation range between the first and second predetermined crank angles, the method proceeds to step S20 and outputs a display. If the result is NO, the method proceeds to step S21. At step S21, if the computing device detects that the current crank angle is within the rotation range between the third and fourth predetermined crank angles, the method proceeds to step S22 and outputs a display, and returns to step S18. If the result is NO, the method proceeds to step S23 and terminates the display before returning to step S18.

[0045] Referring to Fig.9, a flowchart illustrates an alternative method implemented by program logic executed by the processor of computing device 36, which receives an output from a crank angle detector 34 and sends a signal to a display device 38 to output an indication when four predetermined crank angles are provided, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In steps S24 to S27, the user selects the first, second, third, and fourth predetermined crank angles on the GUI. In step S28, the crank angle detector detects a current crank angle and sends the output to the computing device.At step S28, if the computing device has detected that the current crank angle has reached the first predetermined crank angle, the process proceeds to step S30 and outputs a display, and proceeds to step S31. If the result is NO, the process returns to step S28. At step S31, the crank angle detector detects a current crank angle and sends an output to the computing device. If the computing device has detected that the current crank angle has reached the second predetermined crank angle, the process proceeds to step S34, ends the display, and proceeds to step S35. If the result is NO, the process proceeds to step S33, outputs a display, and returns to step S31.

[0046] At step S35, the crank angle detector detects a current crank angle and sends an output to the computing device. At step S36, if the computing device has detected that the current crank angle has reached the third predetermined crank angle, the process proceeds to step S37, outputs a display, and proceeds to step S38. If the result is NO, the process returns to step S35. At step S38, the crank angle detector again detects a current crank angle and sends an output to the computing device. If the computing device has detected that the current crank angle has reached the fourth predetermined crank angle, the process proceeds to step S41, terminates the display, and returns to step S28. If the result is NO, the process proceeds to step S39, outputs a display, and returns to step S38.

[0047] The above embodiments provide a practical and efficient system and method for enabling a cyclist to receive cues to apply and / or release the pedal at an appropriate moment in the rotational cycle of the crank mechanism.

[0048] The term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other non-stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The above also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the term "comprise," "include," and their derivatives.

[0049] The term “pedal device” and its derivatives, as used herein, are also to be understood as open-ended terms that specify any vehicle or machine having a wheel that is propelled by the action of a cyclist’s foot on pedals and thus includes outdoor bicycles, stationary bicycles, exercise bicycles, indoor bicycles, and the like.

[0050] The extent terms such as "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation from the modified term so that an end result is not significantly changed (e.g., manufacturing tolerances).

[0051] While specific embodiments of the pedal device and crank angle indicator system have been described in detail, the disclosed arrangements are intended for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes. The features of the various embodiments described above, as well as modifications thereof, may be combined in various ways without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

[1] Crank angle indicator system (10) comprising: a crank angle detector (34) configured to detect a crank angle of a crankshaft (12) of a pedal device (1); and a display device (38) configured to output at least one of an acoustic and a haptic display after the detected crank angle has reached a predetermined crank angle, and is configured to output a display to provide an indication to a driver to load and / or unload the pedals (16) based on a current crank angle of the crankshaft (12) of the pedal device (1), wherein the predetermined crank angle is set according to a user-configurable setting, and wherein the predetermined crank angle is a first predetermined crank angle and the crank angle detector (34) is further configured to detect a second predetermined crank angle; and the display device (38) is configured to output a first display and a second display after the detected crank angle has reached the first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle, respectively, wherein the first display and the second display are each at least an acoustic and a haptic display, and wherein the second predetermined crank angle is / is set according to a user-configurable setting, in particular the first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle are different angles. [2] Crank angle display system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the first predetermined crank angle and the second predetermined crank angle are left and right predetermined crank angles, respectively, in particular the left and right predetermined crank angles are separated by substantially 180 degrees. [3] Crank angle display system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first display and the second display are distinguishable acoustically and / or haptically. [4] Crank angle indicator system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of an acoustic and a haptic indicator is emitted over a rotation angle range. [5] The crank angle indicator system (10) of claim 1, wherein an acoustic or haptic characteristic of at least one of the at least one acoustic and haptic indicator varies as it is delivered over the rotation angle range. [6] Crank angle display system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a processor (44), in particular a processor (44) of an on-board computer device (36) mountable on the pedal device (1), which executes a program logic (48), designed to receive a detector signal from the crank angle detector (34) to indicate a detected crank angle, and outputs an angle indication signal after detection, that the detected crank angle has reached a predetermined crank angle, wherein the display device (38) is configured to receive the angle display signal and, in response, to output at least one of an acoustic and haptic display. [7] Crank angle display system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising an input device (40) configured to selectively activate and deactivate the display device (38). [8] Crank angle display system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the at least one acoustic and haptic display is an acoustic display and the display device (38) is a loudspeaker (31) which outputs the acoustic display, in particular the loudspeaker (31) is located on an on-board computer device (36) which is coupled to the pedal device (1) and / or in a headset. [9] Crank angle indicator system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one of the at least one acoustic and haptic indicator is a haptic indicator and the indicator device (38) is a vibration device configured to output vibration as the haptic indicator. [10] Crank angle display system (10) according to claim 9, wherein the vibration device is coupled for vibration transmission to at least one of a handlebar (39) of the pedal device (1), a seat (32) of the pedal device (1), a pedal (16) of the pedal device (1) and a wristwatch of a driver of the pedal device (1).

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