Lean Angle Determination Using Accelerometer Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for determining the lean angle of two-wheeled vehicles relative to the road are not practical for series-ready applications and lack simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

Innovation Solution

Calculating the lean angle using lateral acceleration and vertical axis acceleration, measured by sensors, with geometric relationships based on tire geometry, allowing for easy determination of the angle between the vehicle's vertical axis and the roadway.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing methods for determining lean angle are used, then measurement capability is provided, but complexity and cost increase making them impractical for series-ready applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelean angle measurementVSAvoiddetermination system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical lean angle sensors with an inertial measurement system using accelerometers and gyroscopes. The control unit calculates lean angle from acceleration data in the vertical direction and lateral acceleration, substituting direct mechanical measurement with indirect calculation based on inertial forces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces acceleration sensors as intermediary devices that measure vertical and lateral accelerations. These intermediary measurements are then processed by a control unit to derive the lean angle, providing a practical solution that balances measurement accuracy with implementation simplicity for series production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If acceleration sensors are used to determine lean angle, then simplicity and cost-effectiveness improve, but accuracy may be affected by lateral and vertical accelerations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetermination systemVSAvoidlean angle measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the measurement parameters by using acceleration in the vertical direction combined with lateral acceleration. The control unit processes these parameter changes to calculate lean angle, transforming the measurement approach to achieve both simplicity and acceptable accuracy for practical applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 simple and inexpensive determination of the lean angle, improving the accuracy and practicality of lean angle measurement for two-wheeled vehicles, particularly during cornering, braking, and accelerating.

Implementation Method 1

The lateral acceleration a y is preferably measured directly by means of a lateral acceleration sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLateral acceleration measurement: Accelerometer

Implementation Method 2

The acceleration in the direction of the vertical axis can either be measured using an acceleration sensor or calculated from the sensor signals of one or more other sensors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVertical acceleration measurement: Accelerometer

Implementation Method 3

roll angle being measured relative to the gravitational field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravitational acceleration: Gravitation

Implementation Method 4

The lean angle β is calculated from the two acceleration values a y , a z and a geometric relationship that describes the progression of the tire geometry in the transverse direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGeometric relationship calculation: Geometry

Data Source

PatentEP2358574B1Method and device for determining the angle of inclination of a two-wheeled vehicle
Publication Date: 2016.05.25 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP2358574B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2358574B1 patent drawing
  • EP2358574B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for determining the angle of inclination (ß) of a two-wheeled vehicle in the form of a bicycle, scooter or motorcycle in relation to the roadway normal (N). The angle of inclination (ß) can be determined simply and precisely if the lateral acceleration (ay) of the vehicle is measured by means of a lateral acceleration sensor (6) and the acceleration (az) in the direction of the vertical axis (z) of the vehicle is determined and the angle of inclination (ß) in relation to the roadway normal (N) is calculated on the basis of the two acceleration values (ay, az).