Bicycle Trainer With Variable Resistance Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle trainers lack the ability to simulate real-world bicycle courses with variable resistance and limited bicycle movement, failing to provide a realistic training experience for riders.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle trainer that includes a lifting mechanism for the front tire and a resistance cylinder for the rear tire, allowing for forward and backward translation of the bicycle, with mechanisms to control resistance through fluid volume, density, and tilting, enabling simulation of uphill and downhill terrain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a stationary bicycle is used with fixed resistance, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to simulate real-world terrain and individual user preferences deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resistance adjustment through a variable resistance mechanism that can change resistance levels during exercise, and dynamic position adjustment through an electronically controlled platform that moves to simulate terrain variations. This allows the stationary bicycle to adapt to different training scenarios and user preferences while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters including resistance force through adjustable mechanisms, platform position through electronic control, and tire elevation through mechanical adjustment. These parameter changes enable the device to simulate different terrain conditions and accommodate various user needs without significantly increasing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a portable trainer with variable resistance is used, then the adaptability to individual bicycles and training preferences is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal trainer that can accommodate different bicycle types and sizes through adjustable components, including variable resistance mechanisms that work with different tire configurations and electronically controlled platforms that adapt to various training scenarios. This multi-functionality is achieved through modular design rather than multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical resistance adjustment systems with electronically controlled mechanisms, including motorized platform adjustment and electronically regulated resistance. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining or enhancing adaptability to different bicycles and training preferences.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the front tire is manually positioned at different heights, then the adaptability to simulate terrain is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning of the front tire with an electronically controlled platform system. The platform is driven by motors or actuators that can be controlled via electronic interfaces, allowing automated adjustment to simulate terrain variations without requiring manual intervention from the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronically controlled platform system can automatically adjust positions based on pre-programmed terrain profiles or user inputs, eliminating the need for manual positioning. The system serves itself by making adjustments without continuous human intervention, improving ease of operation while maintaining terrain simulation capability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the bicycle is completely stationary during exercise, then the stability of the training setup is improved, but the realism of the training experience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces controlled dynamic movement through an electronically controlled platform that can tilt and position the bicycle at various angles to simulate terrain. The resistance mechanism also dynamically adjusts during exercise. These dynamic elements are built upon a stable base structure, maintaining overall stability while adding realistic movement characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial movement rather than complete stationarity or full mobility. The bicycle remains anchored to the trainer for stability but allows controlled tilting and positioning movements through the electronic platform. This partial action provides realistic terrain simulation while maintaining sufficient stability for safe exercise.
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 trainer provides a realistic training experience by simulating real-world courses with variable resistance, accommodating individual bicycles and allowing limited movement, enhancing the intensity of workouts based on resistance fluid volume and rear tire pressure.
Implementation Method 1
a resistance cylinder (30) attached to the trainer frame (20) and pressing against the rear tire (26) for providing a source of resistance to the rear tire (26)
Implementation Method 2
a lifting mechanism (15) adapted to raise and lower the front tire (25) of the bicycle (12)
Implementation Method 3
translation of the bicycle creates variable resistance as a function of the rear tire pressure against the frame's resistance cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a bicycle trainer to which a standard bicycle temporarily attaches for exercise and simulated rides. A lifting mechanism raises and lowers the front tire, and in preferred embodiments, a frame engages the rear tire to hold the rear tire in an elevated position against a resistance cylinder. The trainer includes support arms that connect to the bicycle and pivot the bicycle in an arcuate path back and forth in relation to a resistance cylinder. The resistance cylinder can thereby vary resistance against back tire revolution.