Bicycle Power Sensor Calibration via Zero-Point Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle power sensing apparatuses lack a reliable calibration mechanism to accurately measure pedaling power, leading to potential inaccuracies in power measurement due to variations in rider input and bicycle conditions.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle power sensing apparatus comprising a power sensing device, a calibration signal generating device, and a controller that receives a calibration signal to calibrate the power sensing device, setting a zero power level and adjusting for rotational status, ensuring accurate power measurement through a calibration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a power sensing apparatus is provided without a calibration mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to inaccuracies in power measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing a calibration process that is performed before normal power measurement operations. The calibration signal generating device generates test signals in advance to establish baseline measurements, and the controller stores calibration data for subsequent use. This preliminary calibration step ensures accurate power measurement without requiring continuous complex calibration mechanisms during operation.
2Measurement precision
If a calibration mechanism is added to the power sensing apparatus, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the controller to perform multiple functions: it controls the power sensing device, generates calibration signals through the calibration signal generating device, processes measurement data, and stores calibration information. By making the controller multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated calibration control units, thereby improving measurement precision while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration signal generating device is designed to generate calibration signals autonomously based on control instructions from the controller. The system performs self-calibration by comparing measured values against known calibration signals, reducing the need for external calibration equipment or manual intervention. This self-service approach improves measurement accuracy without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If calibration is performed continuously, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the loss of time increases due to frequent calibration interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by performing calibration at specific intervals rather than continuously. The controller is configured to execute calibration routines at predetermined times, such as when the bicycle is stationary or at the start of riding sessions. This periodic calibration approach maintains measurement precision over time while minimizing interruptions to normal power measurement and riding activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process is designed to be executed quickly during brief opportunities when the bicycle is already stationary or when power measurement is temporarily suspended. The controller performs calibration operations efficiently by utilizing brief time windows, thus maintaining accuracy without significant time loss during active riding.
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 apparatus provides precise and reliable pedaling power measurement by calibrating the power sensing device, accounting for variations in rider input and bicycle conditions, enhancing the accuracy of power data displayed to the rider.
Implementation Method 1
The strain gauge measures a strain of the crank shaft occurring when a rider is pedaling
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle power sensing apparatus is basically provided with a power sensing device, a calibration signal generating device and a controller. The controller is operatively arranged to receive a calibration signal from the calibration signal generating device. The controller calibrates the power sensing device upon receiving the calibration signal.