Bicycle Crank Angle Detection via Image Processing and Inclinometer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle crank assembly detection systems lack efficient methods for determining the angle of the crank, particularly in relation to the bicycle frame, which is crucial for riders to optimize pedaling force and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A detecting device equipped with an electronic controller, camera, inclinometer, and light detection and ranging (LIDAR) technology captures images of the crank assembly, allowing users to determine the angle by processing information and displaying reference images, enabling precise positioning and angle measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image processing methods are used to determine crank angle, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electronic controller as an intermediary component that processes images captured by the camera to determine crank angle. The controller acts as a mediator between the image capture system and the angle measurement function, enabling precise angle determination through image processing while keeping the overall system architecture manageable through centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical angle sensing mechanisms with an optical image processing system. Instead of using mechanical encoders or position sensors directly on the crank, the system uses a camera to capture images and an electronic controller to process these images and calculate the crank angle, thereby substituting mechanical measurement with optical and computational methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detection methods are provided, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multiple angle determination methods within a single detecting device, making the system universal and adaptable to different user needs and conditions. The electronic controller can switch between image processing methods and inclinometer-based methods, allowing the same device to serve multiple measurement purposes without requiring separate dedicated devices for each method.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller serves as a central intermediary that coordinates multiple detection methods. It receives data from both the camera system and the inclinometer, processes this information through different algorithms, and determines the crank angle using the most appropriate method based on available data and measurement conditions, thereby managing the complexity of multiple methods through centralized coordination.
3Measurement precision
If inclinometer is added to detect inclination angle, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two different measurement approaches - image processing and inclinometer detection - into a single integrated detecting device. The electronic controller combines data from the camera system and the inclinometer to determine the crank angle, leveraging the strengths of both methods while maintaining a unified system architecture that manages the complexity of integrating multiple sensing modalities.
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 system provides users with accurate and user-friendly methods to determine the crank angle, facilitating better pedaling efficiency and bike handling by offering multiple options for angle determination, including image processing and reference line creation.
Implementation Method 1
a camera configured to capture the image of the crank with respect to the bicycle frame
Implementation Method 2
an inclinometer configured to detect an inclination angle of the crank
Implementation Method 3
a light detection and ranging detector configured to obtain the information relating to the image
Data Source
AI summary
A detecting device is provided for detecting a condition of a bicycle crank assembly including a bicycle crank provided to a bicycle frame. The detecting device includes an electronic controller. The electronic controller is configured to obtain information relating to an image of the crank. The electronic controller is configured to determine an angle of the crank based on the information.