Simulated Bicycle Steering Using Front Wheel Tilt and Pivot Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bicycle trainer assemblies do not effectively utilize the front wheel for simulation purposes, limiting the realism and functionality of graphical bicycle riding simulations.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes a front wheel support unit with a pivot mechanism and sensors to measure steering and tilt, combined with a control unit to process these inputs and deliver a realistic visual simulation on a display, accounting for counter steering motions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the front wheel is positioned on the ground in conventional trainer assemblies, then the bicycle is supported in a stable position, but the front wheel serves no functional purpose and the simulation lacks realism

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimulation functionalityVSAvoidfront wheel utility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The front wheel is mounted on a pivot mechanism that allows it to rotate and tilt dynamically, transforming it from a static decorative element to an active component that responds to user input and provides realistic steering and counter-steering motions in the simulation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The front wheel assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the bicycle, enables simulated steering through rotation, and provides counter-steering through tilt motion, making it a multi-functional component that enhances both stability and simulation capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If only handlebar turning is used for steering input, then the steering mechanism is simple, but the simulation does not account for counter steering motions and lacks realism

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesteering simulation accuracyVSAvoidsteering input mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system combines two steering input mechanisms - handlebar rotation and bicycle tilt - into a unified steering simulation model, where both inputs are processed together to produce realistic steering behavior that includes counter-steering motions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

A control unit acts as an intermediary that receives signals from both the handlebar turn mechanism and tilt mechanism, processes them according to bicycle physics models, and translates them into accurate simulated steering responses

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12544620B2Devices and computer technology configured to enable enhanced simulated bicycle steering, for use with a stationary training system

Publication Date: 2026.02.10 JETBLACK INVESTMENTS PTY LTD

AI summary

Devices and computer technology are configured to enable enhanced simulated bicycle steering for use with a stationary training system. For example, one embodiment includes a device configured to support and enable simulated steering of a bicycle front wheel, for use with a stationary training system, optionally including a sensor device configured to provide a steering signal for user by a bicycle simulator software application. Further embodiments include computer technology configured to provide bicycle simulation functionality, including steering. Simulation of steering is in some embodiments based on a combination of handlebars turning and bicycle tilt, and may account for counter-steering motions.