Indoor Bicycle Frame Tilt and Sway for Outdoor Ride Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional indoor cycling training devices lack the ability to simulate the dynamic and comfortable experience of outdoor cycling, with rigid frames failing to replicate the dimensional relationships and movements of outdoor bicycles, leading to a dissimilar riding experience.
Innovation Solution
The indoor bicycle device features a flexible frame with a tilting mechanism and adjustable components, including a vertically adjustable center post, side-to-side motion, and resistance control, which simulates climbing, descending, and side-to-side movements, and can be adjusted to fit various riders and replicate outdoor bicycle dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid frame is used in conventional exercise bicycles, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to simulate outdoor riding motion and comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the rigid frame with a flexible frame that can dynamically adapt its shape and position. The flexible frame includes segments that can bend and flex to simulate the natural motion and vibrations experienced during outdoor cycling, while still maintaining sufficient structural stability to support the rider and transmit pedaling forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the frame's physical parameters (shape, angle, position) to change in response to rider input and simulated terrain conditions. The flexible frame segments can change their angular relationships and positions to replicate the dimensional variations encountered when riding on different outdoor surfaces and slopes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible frame is introduced to simulate outdoor motion, then adaptability and realism are improved, but structural stability and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the frame into multiple flexible segments connected by joints or hinges. This allows each segment to move independently to simulate natural cycling motion while the overall structure maintains reliability through the distributed nature of the segments and their connections, which can be engineered to specific strength requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite materials to create frame segments that combine flexibility with strength. By using composite construction, the frame can exhibit controlled flexibility for motion simulation while maintaining the structural reliability needed to support rider weight and transmit pedaling forces without failure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are added to replicate outdoor bicycle dimensions, then rider fit customizability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing adjustment mechanisms that serve multiple functions. For example, the flexible frame segments can be adjusted not only for dimensional customization but also serve as the simulation mechanism itself, combining the adjustment function with the motion simulation function in a single integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamics to reduce complexity by replacing multiple static adjustment mechanisms with a single dynamic flexible frame system. Instead of requiring separate adjustable components for each dimensional parameter, the flexible frame can dynamically assume different configurations to achieve various rider fits and simulation positions.
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 device provides a dynamic indoor training environment that closely mimics outdoor cycling, enhancing comfort and realism through adjustable dimensions, side-to-side motion, and resistance control, allowing riders to experience a more authentic cycling simulation.
Implementation Method 1
the first flexibly resilient leg deforming to allow the post to lean to one side in response to a first force and the second flexibly resilient leg deforming to allow the post to lean to another side in response to a second force
Implementation Method 2
a tilting mechanism operably coupled with the post, the tilting mechanism controllably pivoting the post forwardly or rearwardly to simulate a decline or incline riding position
Data Source
AI summary
An indoor, stationary, bicycle training device that provides advantages over conventional designs of exercise bicycles is provided. The stationary bicycle may include a tilting/pivoting mechanism to orient the indoor bicycle to simulate descending or climbing. The indoor bicycle may include flexible and resilient frame elements to support the indoor training device to move side-to-side under some riding situations thereby simulating the side-to-side swaying motion of an outdoor bicycle under the same riding situations. The indoor bicycle may include several combinations of frame adjustments to provide configurable dimensions of the indoor bicycle to adjust the frame to properly fit the rider, which may be adjusted based on corresponding dimensions of a user's outdoor bicycle. Still other aspects of the stationary bicycle device may aid in creating an “outdoor” feeling while using the device.