Bicycle Power Spindle Layout for Compact Sealed Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle power-measuring devices are bulky, prone to operational issues due to exposure to environmental factors, and have accuracy and reliability concerns due to their complex components and moving parts.
Innovation Solution
A compact power-measuring device design incorporating a spindle with a battery chamber, a power gauge, and an electrical circuit, enclosed within a cover, which houses a battery unit and processes power measurement signals, minimizing exposure to environmental factors and reducing device size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional power-measuring devices use multiple separate components for power measurement, then measurement functionality is achieved, but device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power measurement function, battery compartment, and housing into an integrated spindle assembly. The power gauge is mounted directly on the spindle, and the battery chamber is formed within the spindle structure itself, eliminating the need for separate mounting components and reducing overall device weight while maintaining full measurement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The spindle serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the mechanical coupling element for power transmission, the mounting structure for the power gauge, the housing for the battery chamber, and the signal transmission axis. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing device weight.
2Measurement precision
If power-measuring devices include multiple moving parts and components, then measurement functionality is achieved, but reliability decreases due to exposure to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a sealed housing structure that encloses the power gauge, battery chamber, and electrical components. This protective enclosure shields internal components from water, dust, mud, and other environmental factors, significantly improving reliability while allowing the device to maintain full measurement functionality in harsh cycling conditions.
3Measurement precision
If power-measuring devices use conventional component layouts, then power measurement is achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the battery chamber within the spindle structure, placing the battery compartment inside the hollow interior of the spindle. The power gauge is mounted on the outer surface of the spindle, and electrical circuits are routed through the spindle interior. This nested arrangement consolidates multiple functional elements into a single compact structure, reducing overall device complexity.
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 design provides a more reliable and accurate power measurement system by protecting internal components from environmental conditions, allowing for a streamlined and cost-effective solution with improved user experience and extended cycling duration.
Implementation Method 1
a bicycle power-measuring device can be one or more strain gauges in one or both cranks or within one of both pedals. A deformation of a measuring device or gauge varies according to the amount of force applied. The change in strain characteristic or deformation of the strain gauge can then be measured, processed, and/or converted to derive the pedaling torque.
Data Source
AI summary
A power-measuring device includes a spindle, a power gauge, an electrical circuit, and a cover. The spindle is configured to provide a coupling with a driving unit. The spindle includes a battery chamber within a hollow space of the spindle. The battery chamber is configured to receive a battery unit. The power gauge is coupled with the spindle to measure power applied to the spindle for driving a movement of the driving unit. The electrical circuit is coupled with the spindle, and electrically coupled with the power gauge. The electrical circuit is coupled with the battery unit and configured to receive and process signals from the power gauge. The cover is coupled with the spindle and arranged to enclose at least a portion of at least one of the power gauge and the electrical circuit.