Deformable Pressure Sensing for Dynamic Bicycle Saddle Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting a suitable bicycle saddle, such as static ischium width measurement and softness tests, are ineffective as they do not accurately account for dynamic riding conditions and pressure distribution, leading to discomfort and inefficiency in finding a suitable saddle.
Innovation Solution
A distinguishing system utilizing a deformable pressure sensing apparatus on the saddle that forms a simulated shape in response to sitting pressure during riding, allowing for analysis and comparison against a table to select a suitable saddle type, which can be made of grease and reset for reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If static ischium width measurement is used to select a saddle, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision is low because it does not reflect dynamic riding conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static measurement to dynamic measurement by having the user actually ride the bicycle during the measurement process. The deformable pressure sensing apparatus captures pressure distribution dynamics during real riding conditions, reflecting the actual contact between saddle and user's hip while accounting for pelvic rotation and movement that occur during cycling.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable pressure sensing apparatus creates a physical copy or impression of the pressure distribution pattern during riding. This simulated shape serves as a tangible representation of the contact mode, which can then be compared against reference patterns to determine saddle suitability without requiring complex digital analysis systems.
2Measurement precision
If softness tests with gel material are used to evaluate saddle comfort, then the test can assess pressure distribution, but the testing time is excessive and the results are not precisely reproducible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a deformable pressure sensing apparatus that quickly captures a simulated shape impression during brief riding periods. This physical copy of the pressure distribution pattern provides immediate visual feedback that can be rapidly compared against reference patterns, eliminating the need for lengthy test protocols while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable pressure sensing apparatus incorporates visual indicators that change or reveal patterns based on pressure application. This visual feedback mechanism allows for rapid assessment of pressure distribution without requiring complex instrumentation or prolonged measurement periods, enabling quick comparison against reference patterns.
3Reliability
If multiple prototype saddles are tested by riders during actual bike riding, then the selection reflects real riding conditions, but the selection process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of testing multiple physical saddle prototypes, the patent creates a simulated shape copy that represents the contact pattern. This single measurement can be compared against multiple reference patterns corresponding to different saddle types, eliminating the need to physically trial multiple saddles while maintaining the validity of real-riding-condition assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary measurement using the deformable pressure sensing apparatus to capture the user's contact pattern before making a saddle selection decision. This preliminary data collection provides sufficient information to identify suitable saddle types without requiring extended trial periods, enabling faster decision-making while preserving measurement validity.
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
This method provides a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective way to determine the suitable saddle type by simulating the contact shape during riding, improving user comfort and reducing selection time compared to conventional methods.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable pressure sensing apparatus is configured to provide a deformation in response to a sitting pressure during ride that is indicative of a saddle type
Data Source
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AI summary
A distinguishing system for a saddle contacting mode includes a saddle (111) and a deformable pressure sensing apparatus (112). The deformable pressure sensing apparatus is disposed on the saddle, wherein the deformable pressure sensing apparatus deforms in response to a sitting pressure, and a saddle type is determined in accordance with the deformation. The deformable pressure sensing apparatus can actually acquire the pelvis contact shape. The deformation is visible on the saddle after the sitting pressure is released, and the deformation can be compared with a comparison table to determine the suitable saddle type for the user instantly. Therefore, the distinguishing system could save the test time and reduce the production cost.