Suspension Setup Using O-Ring Image Recognition for Sag Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle suspension systems often have improper initial settings, such as suspension sag and rebound damping, which can lead to an unfavorable riding experience due to inadequate adjustment techniques, particularly in motorcycles and mountain bikes.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a processor and image sensor to analyze digital images of the suspension components, determining the location of an o-ring to calculate adjustments for optimal sag settings and rebound damping, using object recognition algorithms and user input for load values to automatically set target pressure and damping settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual suspension adjustment methods are used, then the system is simple to operate, but the suspension settings are often improper leading to unfavorable riding experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment methods with an automated image recognition system. The system captures images of suspension components, uses computer vision algorithms to analyze the current settings, and automatically determines optimal adjustment parameters, thereby substituting human judgment and manual measurement with automated optical detection and computational analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment through the image recognition technology. The system automatically captures images of its own components, analyzes the current suspension settings, and determines the required adjustments without external intervention, enabling the system to service itself.
2Measurement precision
If automated image recognition system is implemented, then suspension setting precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image recognition system serves multiple functions: it captures images of suspension components, identifies component types and configurations, measures sag distances, and determines optimal adjustment settings. By consolidating these multiple functions into a single integrated system, the patent reduces overall complexity despite the advanced capabilities provided.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image sensor as an intermediary between the suspension system and the analysis process. This intermediary captures visual data that can be processed by computer algorithms, creating a bridge between physical suspension components and digital analysis, thereby enabling precise measurement without direct physical contact or complex mechanical gauges.
3Reliability
If proper suspension setup education is provided, then riding experience improves, but time and resource investment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis by capturing and analyzing images of the suspension components before actual adjustment is made. The image recognition system pre-determines the optimal settings based on visual inspection of component types, configurations, and current states, allowing users to directly implement recommended adjustments without requiring extensive knowledge or trial-and-error procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are disclosed that assist a user in performing proper setup of a vehicle suspension. A user may utilize a device equipped with an image sensor to assist the user in proper setup of a vehicle suspension. The device executes an application that prompts the user for input and instructs the user to perform a number of steps for adjusting the suspension components. In one embodiment, the application does not communicate with sensors on the vehicle. In another embodiment, the application may communicate with various sensors located on the vehicle to provide feedback to the device during the setup routine. In one embodiment, the device may analyze a digital image of a suspension component to provide feedback about a physical characteristic of the component.