Generator Wheel Power Control for Stationary Bicycles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for harnessing energy from stationary bicycles do not allow for seamless integration of generators without altering the user's pedaling performance or effort, and lack intelligent control systems to manage and transform output signals effectively, making them unreliable in varying user conditions and network failures.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a generator wheel with a synchronous generator and a control and transformation module that includes a programming console and power conversion module, allowing for adjustable pedaling effort and speed, and the ability to synchronize power output with the electric network, enabling efficient energy harvesting and flexible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a synchronous generator with permanent magnets is integrated into the flywheel of a stationary bicycle, then electric power can be generated and harnessed, but the usual operation and performance of the bicycle are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the generator components from the traditional flywheel structure, using a separate magnet assembly that can be positioned independently on the flywheel rim rather than integrating magnets directly into the flywheel material. This allows power generation without significantly altering the flywheel's rotational characteristics and maintains normal bicycle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical coupling system between the flywheel and generator components, using a belt or chain drive mechanism that transfers rotational motion from the flywheel to the magnet assembly. This intermediary allows flexible adjustment of the magnetic field strength and position without directly modifying the flywheel's operational properties.
2Power
If energy harvesting systems are implemented in stationary bicycles, then electric power can be produced, but intelligent control systems to manage output signals are lacking, making the systems unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control system with feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the generator's output signals and adjust the magnetic field strength and position accordingly. This feedback loop ensures stable power output and reliable operation by compensating for variations in pedaling speed and force, maintaining consistent electrical generation across different operating conditions.
3Power
If a magnet assembly is positioned close to the flywheel rim to maximize power generation, then electric power output increases, but the structural integrity and balance of the flywheel may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the magnetic field generation into multiple independent magnet assemblies distributed around the flywheel rim rather than using a single large magnet assembly. This segmentation allows for optimized power generation at each position while maintaining the flywheel's structural balance and integrity, as each small magnet assembly can be independently positioned and secured without compromising the overall flywheel structure.
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 efficient energy generation up to 400W per athlete, maintaining normal bicycle operation, and ensures reliable power delivery to the network or storage, even with varying user inputs and system failures, by synchronizing voltage, frequency, and phase, and allowing for flexible use in different sports equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a generator wheel containing therein a synchronous generator (alternator) with permanent magnets
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and system for generating electric power for sports training apparatuses, the device comprising: - a generator wheel (1) with a synchronous generator (9) having a central shaft (5), a stationary inner part (4) with a winding (7) and an outer rotating ring (3) with permanent magnets; - a control and transformation module for controlling and transforming the power from the generator (9), with: • selection means (10) for selecting the effort setting to be developed; • a power conversion module (11) with: - a power control circuit (14) for regulating the power demanded by the generator (9); - control means (15) with information of the performance of the generator (9) depending on rotation speed and power to be developed, being configured for: • obtaining the rotation speed of the generator wheel (1), • regulating the power demanded by the generator (9), from the effort setting, the rotation speed and the performance of the generator (9) for current working conditions, by means of the power control circuit (14).