Bicycle Resistance Assembly with Dual-Level Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stationary bicycles lack the ability to adjust resistance to pedaling in a comfortable and accurate manner, leading to ineffective workouts due to slow and inaccurate resistance settings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flywheel, resistance assembly, human machine interface, and controller that allows users to select and refine resistance levels through macro and micro-level adjustments, enabling quick and precise changes in resistance force applied to the flywheel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional resistance adjustment mechanisms are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the resistance adjustment speed and precision are slow and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance adjustment system is segmented into two distinct levels: a primary resistance selector for coarse adjustment and a secondary resistance selector for fine-tuning. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high precision resistance control by dividing the adjustment process into manageable stages, where each selector handles a specific range of resistance values.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance assembly incorporates dynamic control capabilities through electronic actuators that can rapidly adjust resistance values based on user input from either selector. The system transitions from static resistance settings to dynamic, real-time adjustment, enabling smooth and precise resistance changes during exercise sessions.
2Productivity
If conventional resistance adjustment mechanisms are used, then the device complexity remains low, but the workout effectiveness is reduced due to slow resistance changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical resistance adjustment mechanisms with an electronic control system. The controller receives signals from either the primary or secondary resistance selector and electronically actuates the resistance mechanism, enabling rapid and precise resistance changes without the limitations of manual mechanical adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance assembly is designed with multi-functionality, capable of responding to commands from either the primary resistance selector or the secondary resistance selector. This universal control capability allows the system to adapt to different user preferences and workout requirements, enhancing overall workout efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single resistance selector is used, then the device structure is simple, but the resistance selection range and precision are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance selection system is divided into two independent selectors: a primary selector for broad resistance range selection and a secondary selector for precise fine-tuning within the selected range. This segmentation provides users with flexible resistance selection across a wide spectrum while maintaining intuitive control.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary resistance selector operates within the context of the primary selector's chosen resistance level. The fine-adjustment capability of the secondary selector is nested within the broader selection framework of the primary selector, creating a hierarchical control structure that maximizes adaptability.
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
Enables users to rapidly change and fine-tune resistance levels, enhancing the effectiveness and comfort of workouts by allowing precise control over the pedaling resistance, adapting to individual training levels and performance data.
Implementation Method 1
a resistance assembly that exerts a resistance force that counteracts rotation of the at least one flywheel
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is related to selectively adjustable resistance assemblies and methods of use for bicycles. An example device includes at least one flywheel rotated by a user operating pedals, a resistance assembly associated with the at least one flywheel, the resistance assembly configured to exert a resistance force that counteracts rotation of the at least one flywheel caused by the user using the pedals, a human machine interface that is configured to allow the user to select a first resistance level for the resistance force, a secondary resistance selector that allows the user to select a second resistance level for the resistance force, the second resistance level allowing for refinement of the resistance force, and a controller that selectively controls the resistance assembly to apply the resistance force based on the first resistance level and the second resistance level.