Bicycle Suspension Control System for Dynamic Ride Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mountain bikes face inefficiencies in pedaling and control due to suspension systems that bounce excessively over uneven terrain, making it difficult to adjust suspension settings while riding.
Innovation Solution
A control system with a bicycle sensor that detects coasting or non-coasting conditions, generating input signals to adjust suspension settings via a control unit and actuators, allowing for real-time adjustment of suspension settings to improve pedaling efficiency and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the suspension system allows the frame to move freely over uneven terrain, then the wheels can conform to topography and maximize tire traction, but the frame bounces excessively during pedaling, decreasing pedaling efficiency and rider control
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system transitions from a static, passive configuration to a dynamic, actively controlled system. Sensors detect riding conditions (pedaling, coasting, braking) and the control system adjusts suspension parameters in real-time, allowing the system to adapt its behavior to maximize both traction and pedaling efficiency under different conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes suspension parameters (damping coefficients, spring rates, firmness) based on detected riding conditions. During pedaling, the suspension is firmified to reduce bounce and improve efficiency; during non-pedaling phases, it softens to maintain traction and comfort, thus resolving the contradiction between these two opposing requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If suspension settings are adjusted manually while the bicycle is at rest, then the user can use a tool to modify suspension function, but it is impractical to adjust settings while riding
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical adjustment system is replaced with an automated electronic control system. Sensors detect riding conditions and the control system automatically adjusts suspension parameters without requiring manual intervention, making the system as easy to operate as riding the bike itself while providing real-time adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system adjusts itself automatically based on sensor input from detected riding conditions. The system serves itself by making real-time parameter adjustments without user intervention, eliminating the need for manual tool-based adjustment while riding and maintaining optimal performance automatically.
3Ease of operation
If the suspension system is designed for comfort over terrain, then it smooths frame motion, but it adds to the bouncing experienced by the rider during pedaling
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system operates in periodic cycles, alternating between soft and firm states based on the pedaling cycle. During the power stroke when the rider is applying force, the suspension firms up to support the rider and reduce bounce. During the recovery stroke or coasting phases, it softens to absorb terrain irregularities, thus providing comfort when needed and control during power application.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for adjusting suspension settings of a bicycle, including a bicycle sensor configured to sense a coasting condition and a non-coasting condition and generate input signals indicative of the sensed condition, and a control unit in communication with the bicycle sensor and configured to generate output signals in response to the input signals, the output signals receivable by the bicycle suspension to selectively adjust the suspension settings.