Bicycle Suspension Sensor Assembly Using Magnetic Field Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bicyclists face inefficiencies and errors in tuning adjustable bicycle suspensions due to the lack of reliable, real-time data on pivoting motion, requiring trial and error adjustments based on subjective assessments.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with a magnetometer and microcontroller that wirelessly communicates data on pivoting motion to a computing device, providing meaningful metrics for suspension tuning, including sag, rebound damping, and compression damping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If trial and error adjustments are made based on subjective assessment, then suspension tuning can be performed without additional equipment, but the process is inefficient and prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using a magnetometer to continuously monitor the position of suspension components during riding, providing real-time data about suspension behavior. This objective feedback replaces subjective rider assessment, enabling precise identification of optimal tuning parameters through data analysis rather than trial and error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trial-and-error adjustment process with an electronic sensing and data processing system. The magnetometer, microcontroller, and wireless communication components substitute for the rider's subjective judgment and manual adjustment process, providing objective measurement and analysis of suspension performance.
2Device complexity
If trial and error adjustments are made based on subjective assessment, then no additional measurement equipment is needed, but the tuning process is prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetometer provides continuous objective feedback on suspension component positions, replacing subjective rider assessment. This data-driven approach eliminates the errors inherent in human perception and memory, providing reliable measurement of suspension behavior under various riding conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes electronic sensing technology for human sensory judgment. The magnetometer, microcontroller, and wireless communication system replace the rider's subjective assessment process, providing precise, objective data that eliminates the reliability issues of trial and error tuning.
3Measurement precision
If a sensor assembly with magnetometer and microcontroller is installed, then precise data on pivoting motion is obtained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a magnet as an intermediary between the moving suspension component and the magnetometer sensor. This magnetic field mediator allows non-contact measurement of position and motion, simplifying the physical connection requirements and reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact sensors with a magnetic field-based sensing system. The magnetometer detects the magnetic field of the attached magnet to determine position and motion, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages or contact-based sensors and reducing overall device complexity.
4Loss of time
If real-time data communication is implemented, then immediate feedback for tuning is available, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic wireless communication, transmitting data at intervals rather than continuously. This approach provides sufficient real-time feedback for tuning purposes while significantly reducing the average power consumption of the transmitter compared to continuous transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for post-ride data analysis, enabling tuning decisions to be made after the battery has been depleted or during low-power states. This self-service approach eliminates the need for continuous power-intensive communication, as the data can be analyzed when the bicycle is stationary and recharged.
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 precise, data-driven adjustments to suspension settings, reducing trial and error and improving handling and performance by providing real-time and post-ride analysis of suspension metrics.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetometer is coupled to the shank. A permanent magnet with a north pole and a south pole is positioned adjacent to the magnetometer and pivotable relative to the magnetometer. The permanent magnet generates a magnetic field. The magnetometer senses changes in the magnetic field as the permanent magnet pivots.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor assembly includes a shank shaped for mating with a socket in a head of a bolt about which a portion of a rear suspension of a bicycle pivots. A magnetometer (or a permanent magnet) is coupled to the shank. A permanent magnet with a north pole and a south pole (or a magnetometer) is positioned adjacent to the magnetometer (or permanent magnet) and pivotable relative thereto. A linkage couples the permanent magnet (or magnetometer) to the portion of the rear suspension that pivots about the bolt. The magnetometer senses changes in the magnetic field as the suspension pivots.