Cyclist Position Detection via Pedal Force Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bicycle technologies do not effectively determine a bicyclist's position (sitting or standing) during a ride, limiting detailed performance analysis and feedback.
Innovation Solution
The use of force-measuring sensors, such as those in Garmin's Vector pedals, to differentiate between sitting and standing positions by analyzing radial and tangential forces, combined with GPS devices to record and correlate positional changes with geographic location and performance metrics for real-time feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If force-measuring sensors are used to determine bicyclist position, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position sensing systems with force measurement sensors that detect radial and tangential forces on the pedals. By measuring force vectors rather than directly sensing position mechanically, the system achieves accurate position detection while reducing mechanical complexity. The sensors measure force components that indirectly indicate whether the cyclist is sitting or standing.
2Loss of information
If multiple sensors are used to measure radial and tangential forces, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of information is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the force measurement into two distinct components: radial force (perpendicular to pedal motion) and tangential force (parallel to pedal motion). By separating these force components, the system captures complete information about the cyclist's position and effort without requiring a single complex omnidirectional sensor. This segmentation allows accurate position determination while using simpler, specialized sensors.
3Productivity
If real-time feedback is provided to improve pedaling efficiency, then productivity is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback about cycling position and efficiency, enabling the cyclist to self-correct their technique. The cyclist uses this information to automatically adjust their posture and pedaling mechanics, eliminating the need for external coaches or complex control systems. This self-service approach improves productivity while keeping energy consumption low, as the feedback system only needs to monitor and display information, not actively control the cycling mechanics.
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 detailed analysis and real-time feedback on bicyclist performance, allowing adjustments to improve pedaling efficiency and overall riding dynamics.
Implementation Method 1
a bicycle may include a pedal with a pedal spindle provided with one or more sensors configured to measure the forces exerted by the bicyclist on the pedal. More specifically, Garmin's Vector pedals incorporate a plurality of sensors that measures the forces applied by a bicyclist to a bicycle's pedals based on an amount of deformation of the bicycle's pedal spindles.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for determining a bicyclist's bodily position, such as sitting or standing, while riding a bicycle. Sensors measure a force applied by the bicyclist to the pedals. The measurement data is analyzed to identify a feature, such as whether a radial force is higher or lower than a tangential force or whether a total vertical force is high or low, which is indicative of the bicyclist's bodily position. A series of changes in the bicyclist's bodily position during the ride is recorded. A series of changes in the geographic location of the bicyclist and/or a series of changes in one or more performance metrics while riding the bicycle may also be recorded. The series of changes in the bicyclist's bodily position, the geographic location, and the performance metrics may be correlated, graphically communicated in real-time or post-ride, and used to improve the bicyclist's performance.