Crank Force Sensor Calibration Using Rotational Position Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Human-powered vehicle sensors experience variations in zero points due to use and deterioration, leading to inaccuracies in force measurement, necessitating improved accuracy without requiring specific rotational positions.

Innovation Solution

An electrical device for a rotational device in human-powered vehicles, comprising a force sensor, position detector, and electronic controller, adjusts measurement values based on detected rotational positions, automatically and without user input, using reference pedal weights and temperature compensation to enhance accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the rotational device is arranged in a specific rotational position to improve sensor accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor measurement accuracyVSAvoidoperational convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary calibration by detecting the rotational position of the rotational device and storing reference measurement values at predetermined positions. This preliminary action allows the sensor to be calibrated in advance, eliminating the need for manual intervention during operation and maintaining high measurement accuracy without compromising ease of use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors the rotational position through the position detector and compares current measurement values with reference values stored in memory. Based on this feedback mechanism, the electronic controller automatically adjusts and corrects measurement deviations, ensuring sustained measurement precision without requiring the device to be manually positioned or recalibrated by the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If manual calibration is required to improve sensor accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but ease of operation and productivity worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor measurement accuracyVSAvoidcalibration efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically detecting its own rotational position through the position detector and comparing measurement values against stored reference data. The electronic controller autonomously identifies and corrects zero-point deviations without requiring external calibration tools or manual intervention, thereby maintaining high measurement accuracy while maximizing calibration efficiency and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Reference measurement values are pre-stored in the memory unit at predetermined rotational positions during manufacturing or initial setup. This preliminary preparation enables the system to perform rapid automatic calibration by comparing current readings against these pre-established references, eliminating time-consuming manual calibration procedures and significantly improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If continuous adjustment is performed to maintain accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs adjustment operations periodically rather than continuously. The electronic controller monitors the rotational position and triggers calibration routines only when the rotational device approaches predetermined positions detected by the position detector. This periodic adjustment strategy maintains measurement precision by correcting zero-point deviations at appropriate intervals while minimizing power consumption by keeping the adjustment mechanism dormant during non-critical periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS12503190B2Electrical device and rotational device for human-powered vehicle
Publication Date: 2025.12.23 SHIMANO INC
  • US12503190B2 patent drawing
  • US12503190B2 patent drawing
  • US12503190B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical device for a rotational device of a human-powered vehicle comprises a force sensor, a position detector, and an electronic controller. The force sensor is configured to measure a force applied to the rotational device. The position detector is configured to detect a rotational position of the rotational device. The electronic controller is configured to adjust a measurement value of the force sensor based on the rotational position detected by the position detector.