Cycling Simulator Torque Sensor Control System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current cycling simulation devices lack effective and instantaneous control of pedaling resistance and real-time feedback on workout quality, leading to inefficient and potentially harmful workouts due to manual resistance adjustment and lack of balance monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A control system integrating a torque sensor, optical sensor, and control logic unit that adjusts braking force on the flywheel based on user-set parameters and real-time pedaling data, providing immediate feedback on pedaling balance and quality through a remote device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If remote brake actuation is used to control resistance, then user comfort is improved by eliminating cable handling, but brake response is delayed and cannot provide instantaneous control
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously measures actual torque via a torque sensor and feeds this information back to the control unit, which adjusts the brake position accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates the delay between user intent and brake response, achieving instantaneous control while maintaining remote operation comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based brake adjustment system with an electronic control system that uses a motor to position the brake and a torque sensor with control unit to regulate braking force. This substitution eliminates mechanical delays and enables precise, instantaneous control response.
2Device complexity
If no torque sensor or quality control system is installed, then device complexity is reduced, but user cannot receive real-time feedback on workout quality
Solution Approach 1:
The torque sensor provides continuous measurement of actual torque, and the control unit processes this data to generate real-time feedback on workout quality. This feedback loop enables the user to monitor and adjust their pedaling technique, ensuring optimal workout effectiveness without adding excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically monitors torque and provides quality assessment without requiring external intervention or complex manual measurement systems. The torque sensor and control unit work together to self-evaluate workout quality and guide the user independently.
3Measurement precision
If manual cable adjustment is used for brake resistance, then control precision can be achieved, but user must simultaneously hold handlebars and brake cables which is uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual cable adjustment mechanism with an electric motor-driven brake positioning system controlled by a microprocessor. This substitution maintains precise brake control through electronic actuation while completely freeing the user's hands for proper cycling form.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts and maintains the required brake force based on user input and real-time torque measurements, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The brake system serves itself by continuously self-regulating the braking force to match training requirements.
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 and comfortable resistance control and real-time assessment of workout quality, allowing users to correct their pedaling technique and ensuring effective and balanced exercise.
Implementation Method 1
a torque sensor for detecting and sending to said control logic unit a signal related to the torque acting on said main shaft during the rotation of said flywheel
Implementation Method 2
braking means, acting on said flywheel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention concerns an improved control system (S) of a cycling simulation device (D), said cycling simulation device (D) being of the type comprising a support frame (1), on which coupling members (25) are installed for coupling to the bicycle chain, with which a user carries out a training by acting on the respective pedals of said bicycle, a flywheel (3) rotating around a main shaft (21), connected to said coupling members (25), and braking means (40), acting on said flywheel (3), comprising: a control logic unit (U), capable of connecting in transmission and reception with a remote device (R), by which a user can set one or more training parameters, and a torque sensor (Sc) for detecting and sending to said control logic unit (U) a signal related to the torque acting on said main shaft (21) during the rotation of said flywheel (3), and said control logic unit (U) being configured so as to adjust the braking force exerted by said braking means (40) on said flywheel (3) as a function of said training parameters set by said user and of said signal related to the torque acting on said main shaft (21) detected by said torque sensor (Sc). The present invention also concerns a cycling simulation device (D) and a method to control said device (D).