Adaptive Haptic Brake Assist for Cyclists
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake assist systems for cyclists on bicycles are not sufficiently adaptable to the individual driving skillfulness of the cyclist, relying on preset reference conditions that may not accurately reflect the cyclist's abilities, leading to inadequate feedback during braking, particularly in preventing wheel slippage and flipping.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive brake assist system using haptic feedback that includes a learning module to determine and update reference deceleration values based on the cyclist's performance, incorporating sensors for angular speed, slope, and pedal-thrust input to adjust the vibration frequency of the actuator, providing personalized feedback to the cyclist.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If preset reference conditions are used for brake assist feedback, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot adapt to individual cyclist skill levels
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static preset reference conditions to dynamic adaptive reference conditions. A learning module continuously monitors cyclist braking performance and updates reference deceleration values in real-time, allowing the system to adapt to individual skill levels while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through incremental learning rather than complex pre-programming
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-learning and self-adjustment by automatically monitoring its own performance data and updating reference conditions without external intervention. The learning module uses feedback from sensors to autonomously refine the reference deceleration values, eliminating the need for manual calibration or complex user setup procedures
2Measurement precision
If preset reference conditions are used, then the system is easy to operate, but the feedback accuracy does not match the cyclist's actual ability
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensor data from wheel speed, slope, and pedal-thrust measurements are fed back to the learning module. This feedback mechanism allows the system to progressively refine reference deceleration values based on actual cycling conditions and performance, improving measurement precision while maintaining ease of operation through automatic adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary learning during initial system operation to establish baseline reference conditions before full adaptive functionality is activated. This preliminary action phase allows the system to gather initial performance data and set appropriate reference values without requiring complex user input or calibration procedures
3Reliability
If haptic feedback is provided during braking, then wheel slippage and flipping are prevented, but the system requires multiple sensors and actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple sensing functions into an integrated monitoring framework where wheel speed sensors, slope sensors, and pedal-thrust sensors work together with the learning module and haptic actuator. By merging these components into a unified adaptive control system, the patent achieves improved braking safety while managing overall system complexity through coordinated operation rather than separate independent systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively adapts to the cyclist's skill level by providing timely and relevant haptic feedback, enhancing safety by preventing wheel slippage and flipping, thereby improving braking control and stability.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator (4) adapted to generate vibrations at a determined vibration frequency (f)
Data Source
AI summary
Adaptive brake assist system a cyclist on a bicycle by an aptic feedback, includes a first sensor (for measuring the angular speed (ω1) of a first wheel of the bicycle, adapted to generate a signal representative of the angular speed of the first wheel; an actuator mountable to a portion of the bicycle, adapted to generate vibrations; a control module configured to generate a command signal of the actuator, so that the actuator vibrates at a vibration frequency (f), based on at least the signal representative of the angular speed of the first wheel (ω1) and based on one or more reference magnitudes (ηref); and a learning module configured to determine, updating and delivering to the control module the one or more reference magnitudes (ηref) based on at least the signal representative of the angular speed (ω1) of the first wheel.