E-bicycle Slipstream Control via Distance and Offset Torque Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Slipstreaming for two-wheelers is hazardous due to restricted vision and close proximity to the vehicle ahead, leading to increased energy consumption and collision risks.
Innovation Solution
A control method and device for a two-wheeler that detects step size, longitudinal distance, and lateral offset relative to a vehicle in front, regulating motor torque to maintain a safe slipstream while considering geometry and wind conditions, reducing collision risk and energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a motorcyclist rides in the slipstream of a vehicle ahead to reduce drag, then energy consumption is reduced, but the field of vision is restricted and collision risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously receives data from the distance sensor about the longitudinal distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically adjusts the drive motor's torque output. This closed-loop feedback system maintains optimal slipstream positioning by reducing drag while preventing collision through real-time distance monitoring and motor control adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the rider's acceleration requests and the drive motor's actual torque output. It modifies the torque command based on distance sensor data, enabling the rider to benefit from slipstream energy savings while the system automatically manages safety distance maintenance
2Use of energy by moving object
If the distance to the vehicle ahead is reduced to maximize slipstream benefit, then energy efficiency improves, but the risk of collision increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the drive motor's torque output based on real-time distance measurements. When the distance sensor detects that the vehicle is approaching the optimal slipstream distance, the control unit automatically reduces torque to maintain safety margins, and increases torque when distance increases, creating a dynamic balance between energy efficiency and collision avoidance
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit changes the torque parameter of the drive motor based on the longitudinal distance parameter detected by the distance sensor. By continuously adjusting torque as a function of distance, the system optimizes energy efficiency in the slipstream while maintaining safe operating parameters that prevent collision
Data Source
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AI summary
Control method for slipstreaming of a two-wheeler (100), wherein the two-wheeler (100) is configured to be driven manually by means of a pedaling force of the two-wheeler rider on the pedals (101) of the two-wheeler (100) and motorically by means of a motor torque of a drive motor (105), wherein the control method comprises at least the steps of detecting (310) a pedaling force, which represents the pedaling force, and detecting (320) at least a longitudinal distance (120) of the two-wheeler (100) to a preceding vehicle (150), characterized in that the control method additionally comprises the steps of detecting (330) a lateral offset (410) of the two-wheeler (100) to the preceding vehicle (150), and controlling (380) the motor torque of the drive motor (105) as a function of the longitudinal distance (120), the lateral offset (410) and the pedaling force to control the two-wheeler (100) in the exhibits the slipstream (420) of the vehicle ahead (150).