Sensor-Based Bicycle Fitting System for Automated Position Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current bicycle fitting methods lack accuracy and efficiency, relying heavily on personal judgment and experience, which can lead to inconsistent results and increased fitting time, especially as cycling becomes more competitive and diverse in its applications.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilizes sensors and processors to evaluate and adjust saddle and handlebar positions based on various parameters, including mechanical, biomechanical, and user comfort factors, using iterative processes to determine optimal positions for improved riding efficiency and safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional manual bicycle fitting methods are used, then the process can be completed with simple equipment, but the accuracy and consistency of fitting results deteriorate due to reliance on personal judgment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefitting accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with sensor-based automated measurement systems. Sensors detect rider position, bike geometry, and performance data objectively, eliminating reliance on fitter's subjective judgment and improving measurement precision while accepting increased system complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-measurement and self-adjustment capabilities through automated data collection and analysis. The sensors and processing system work autonomously to evaluate fitting parameters without requiring constant manual intervention, improving consistency while managing complexity through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If traditional bicycle fitting methods are used, then the equipment required remains simple, but the fitting time increases due to lack of standardized procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefitting efficiencyVSAvoidfitting time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary data collection and analysis automatically during the fitting process. Sensors pre-capture position and performance data, and the processing system pre-evaluates multiple parameters simultaneously, enabling faster decision-making and reducing overall fitting time despite increased equipment complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensor data is processed in real-time to evaluate fitting parameters and provide immediate guidance for adjustments. This automated feedback mechanism accelerates the iterative fitting process, improving productivity while managing time through systematic evaluation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If manual judgment is used in bicycle fitting, then the system remains simple to operate, but the consistency of results deteriorates across different fitters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresult consistencyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal measurement and evaluation system that applies the same sensor-based methodology and processing algorithms to all riders regardless of which fitter is performing the assessment. This standardized multi-functional system ensures consistent results across different users and fitters, improving reliability while accepting increased system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11878214B2Methods and systems for bicycle fitting
Publication Date: 2024.01.23 GIANT MANUFACTURING CO LTD
  • US11878214B2 patent drawing
  • US11878214B2 patent drawing
  • US11878214B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for bicycle fitting includes receiving evaluation factors based on one or more scenario parameters; positioning at least one of a saddle and a handlebar to one or more positions when a user is pedaling; determining values for the evaluation factors according to data received from one or more sensors at the one or more positions; and processing the values to identify one or more recommended positions for the saddle or the handlebar.