Bicycle CVT Auto-Calibration Using Sensor-Based Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual configuration and calibration of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) in bicycles are prone to errors and frustration, especially for inexperienced users, as they require manual entry of gear tooth counts and other parameters, which can lead to incorrect settings and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An automatic configuration and calibration system using a controller area network (CAN) with a system controller communicatively coupled to sensors, allowing for image-based determination of bicycle components and adaptive algorithms to optimize CVT settings, enabling users to align components virtually and adjust transmission ratios automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration and calibration methods are used, then users can set up CVT systems, but user error and frustration increase especially for inexperienced users
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects and configures CVT parameters without requiring user input. The controller reads sensor data, identifies component specifications, and calibrates the system autonomously, eliminating manual configuration steps that cause user error and frustration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with an electronic automated system. Instead of users physically counting teeth and entering values, electronic sensors and controllers automatically detect and configure parameters, substituting human action with automated electronic detection and control.
2Reliability
If automatic configuration systems are implemented, then configuration accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it detects component specifications, stores configuration data, processes sensor inputs, and calibrates the CVT system. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional controller, the system achieves high configuration accuracy without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between the physical CVT components and the configuration process. This intermediary automatically mediates the detection and configuration tasks, simplifying the user interface while maintaining system accuracy through automated electronic mediation.
3Productivity
If manual entry of gear tooth counts is required, then configuration information can be input, but time consumption and error rates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical counting and entry processes with automated electronic sensor detection. Sensors optically or electronically detect gear tooth counts and other parameters, eliminating the need for users to manually count and enter data, thereby increasing both speed and accuracy simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates electronic copies or representations of physical component parameters through sensor detection. Instead of users manually transcribing tooth counts from physical gears to digital inputs, the system creates accurate electronic copies of these parameters through automated detection, eliminating transcription errors and saving time.
Data Source
AI summary
A continuously variable transmission on a bicycle may be automatically configured with little or no assistance from a user. Optical scanning devices, RFIDs, and other information capturing technology can communicate with a controller. The controller may then perform a portion or all of a configuration process. In operation, a controller may determine that calibration is needed. A calibration process may be initiated and performed with little or no user interaction. A calibration process may account for a load, a power source, or an environment.