Pedal Spindle Strain Gauge Measurement for Cycling Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pedaling measurement technologies lack accuracy and reliability in capturing comprehensive pedaling parameters, particularly in measuring elastic strain and force dynamics, which are crucial for optimizing cycling performance and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a strain member and strain gauges attached to a pedal spindle, which measures elastic strain through deformation, and a processor that calculates pedaling parameters like power and efficiency, transmitting data wirelessly to a cycling computer system for real-time feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If strain gauges are attached to the pedal spindle to measure elastic strain, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strain gauges are integrated directly onto the pedal spindle, merging the measurement function with the existing structural component. This eliminates the need for separate measurement devices and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision for pedaling parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The pedal spindle serves dual functions: it acts as both a mechanical support structure and a measurement element through the attached strain gauges. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby simplifying the device while enabling accurate measurement of elastic strain and pedaling parameters.
2Measurement precision
If multiple strain gauges are used to measure comprehensive pedaling parameters, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into multiple strain gauges positioned at different locations and orientations on the pedal spindle. Each gauge measures specific stress components, and their combined data provides comprehensive pedaling parameters. This segmentation enables precise measurement while using standard, readily available strain gauge components.
Solution Approach 2:
Different strain gauges are oriented to measure different stress parameters (axial, radial, tangential forces). By changing the measurement parameters through gauge orientation rather than using fundamentally different measurement technologies, the system achieves comprehensive measurement capability with relatively simple and cost-effective components.
3Productivity
If real-time wireless transmission of pedaling data is implemented, then productivity is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless transmission system operates periodically rather than continuously, transmitting pedaling data at intervals or triggered by specific events (e.g., completion of a pedal stroke or at regular time intervals). This periodic operation provides real-time feedback capability while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by transmitting measured pedaling parameters wirelessly to provide real-time performance information. This feedback mechanism enables immediate performance monitoring and adjustment while the transmission is optimized to balance data freshness with energy consumption through selective or periodic data transmission.
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
The apparatus provides precise and reliable measurements of pedaling parameters, enhancing cycling performance by offering detailed insights into pedaling power, efficiency, and balance, thereby improving training and performance metrics.
Implementation Method 1
a strain gauge, coupled with the strain member, to measure an elastic strain representing the deformation
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and method for pedalling measurement are presented. The apparatus comprises: a portion to form a hole for accommodating a spindle of a pedal; a strain member to undergo deformation by a force applied on the pedal and transmitted by means of the spindle through the portion to the strain member; and a strain gauge, coupled with the strain member, to measure an elastic strain representing the deformation.