Real-Time Aerodynamic Drag Calculation for Exposed Riders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring aerodynamic drag on vehicles with exposed riders, such as bicycles and motorcycles, are inadequate as they assume constant frontal area and drag coefficient, failing to account for dynamic changes in the rider's posture and environment, and do not provide real-time monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A system using sensors at contact points between the rider and vehicle to measure total longitudinal force, with data transmission and display for real-time aerodynamic drag calculation, accounting for changing conditions like frontal area and road slope, and calculating the product of drag coefficient and frontal area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wind tunnel testing is used to measure aerodynamic drag, then measurement precision is improved, but it cannot account for dynamic changes in rider posture and environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static wind tunnel measurements to dynamic real-time measurements during actual riding conditions. Force sensors continuously measure longitudinal forces while the rider moves, capturing dynamic posture changes and environmental variations that static testing cannot detect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical wind tunnel testing system with an in-vehicle sensing system. Instead of using a large-scale mechanical wind tunnel apparatus, the invention uses force sensors, accelerometers, and computational algorithms to measure and calculate aerodynamic drag directly on the moving vehicle.
2Device complexity
If calculation methods assume constant frontal area and drag coefficient are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the calculation method dynamic by continuously updating frontal area and drag coefficient values based on real-time sensor data. Instead of assuming constant values, the system measures actual forces during motion and calculates varying parameters that reflect changing rider posture and environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters from static assumed values to dynamic measured values. The system continuously adjusts frontal area and drag coefficient parameters based on real-time force measurements, acceleration data, and environmental conditions, allowing accurate calculation despite posture and environmental variations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If real-time monitoring of aerodynamic drag is implemented, then adaptability to changing conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using multi-functional sensor systems that serve multiple purposes. Force sensors not only measure aerodynamic drag but also capture information about rider posture, vehicle dynamics, and environmental conditions. The same sensor data is used for multiple calculations including drag force, power requirements, and performance optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses computational algorithms as intermediaries to process raw sensor data and convert it into meaningful aerodynamic drag information. The microprocessor and software act as intermediaries that integrate data from multiple sensors, apply physical models, and output accurate drag calculations without requiring direct complex mechanical measurement systems.
4Measurement precision
If direct force measurement sensors are used at rider-vehicle contact points, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges force measurement functionality with existing rider-vehicle contact points. Instead of adding separate measurement systems, the invention integrates force sensors into the natural contact interfaces between rider and vehicle (handlebars, saddle, pedals), combining measurement functions with existing structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by using the rider's own contact points with the vehicle as measurement locations. The force sensors are positioned where the rider naturally interacts with the vehicle, allowing the system to measure forces through the existing interaction points without requiring additional external measurement apparatus.
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 real-time monitoring and accurate calculation of aerodynamic drag on vehicles with exposed riders, adapting to dynamic changes in posture and environment, improving performance and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the flux of forces from the rider to a portion (majority) of the vehicle through a system of contact points by using at least one sensor disposed between each rider-vehicle interface
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of calculating under changing conditions in real-time aerodynamic drag acting on a rider on a vehicle. A computer receives a signal indicative of a force of the vehicle on the rider from at least one force sensor located at or near at least one point of contact between the rider and the vehicle. The computer determines aerodynamic drag acting on the rider on the vehicle from the received signal. These steps are repeated under changing conditions.