CA2975338C - Cableless rotational speed, torque and output sensor for bicycles - Google Patents
Cableless rotational speed, torque and output sensor for bicycles Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2975338C CA2975338C CA2975338A CA2975338A CA2975338C CA 2975338 C CA2975338 C CA 2975338C CA 2975338 A CA2975338 A CA 2975338A CA 2975338 A CA2975338 A CA 2975338A CA 2975338 C CA2975338 C CA 2975338C
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- Prior art keywords
- bottom bracket
- measuring device
- spindle
- bracket according
- measuring
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- 238000011156 evaluation Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000006698 induction Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000003990 capacitor Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000008054 signal transmission Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 9
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001939 inductive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000010354 integration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003387 muscular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000006180 nutrition needs Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000737 periodic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002123 temporal effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012549 training Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01P—MEASURING LINEAR OR ANGULAR SPEED, ACCELERATION, DECELERATION, OR SHOCK; INDICATING PRESENCE, ABSENCE, OR DIRECTION, OF MOVEMENT
- G01P3/00—Measuring linear or angular speed; Measuring differences of linear or angular speeds
- G01P3/42—Devices characterised by the use of electric or magnetic means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J45/00—Electrical equipment arrangements specially adapted for use as accessories on cycles, not otherwise provided for
- B62J45/40—Sensor arrangements; Mounting thereof
- B62J45/41—Sensor arrangements; Mounting thereof characterised by the type of sensor
- B62J45/411—Torque sensors
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J45/00—Electrical equipment arrangements specially adapted for use as accessories on cycles, not otherwise provided for
- B62J45/40—Sensor arrangements; Mounting thereof
- B62J45/41—Sensor arrangements; Mounting thereof characterised by the type of sensor
- B62J45/412—Speed sensors
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J45/00—Electrical equipment arrangements specially adapted for use as accessories on cycles, not otherwise provided for
- B62J45/40—Sensor arrangements; Mounting thereof
- B62J45/42—Sensor arrangements; Mounting thereof characterised by mounting
- B62J45/421—Sensor arrangements; Mounting thereof characterised by mounting at the pedal crank
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62M—RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
- B62M3/00—Construction of cranks operated by hand or foot
- B62M3/003—Combination of crank axles and bearings housed in the bottom bracket
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62M—RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
- B62M6/00—Rider propulsion of wheeled vehicles with additional source of power, e.g. combustion engine or electric motor
- B62M6/40—Rider propelled cycles with auxiliary electric motor
- B62M6/45—Control or actuating devices therefor
- B62M6/50—Control or actuating devices therefor characterised by detectors or sensors, or arrangement thereof
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01L—MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE
- G01L3/00—Measuring torque, work, mechanical power, or mechanical efficiency, in general
- G01L3/02—Rotary-transmission dynamometers
- G01L3/04—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element comprises a torsionally-flexible shaft
- G01L3/10—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element comprises a torsionally-flexible shaft involving electric or magnetic means for indicating
- G01L3/101—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element comprises a torsionally-flexible shaft involving electric or magnetic means for indicating involving magnetic or electromagnetic means
- G01L3/102—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element comprises a torsionally-flexible shaft involving electric or magnetic means for indicating involving magnetic or electromagnetic means involving magnetostrictive means
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01L—MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE
- G01L3/00—Measuring torque, work, mechanical power, or mechanical efficiency, in general
- G01L3/24—Devices for determining the value of power, e.g. by measuring and simultaneously multiplying the values of torque and revolutions per unit of time, by multiplying the values of tractive or propulsive force and velocity
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Arrangements For Transmission Of Measured Signals (AREA)
- Connection Of Motors, Electrical Generators, Mechanical Devices, And The Like (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention relates to a bottom bracket with a bottom bracket spindle, a measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of the bottom bracket spindle and/or of a torque applied to the bottom bracket spindle, and an electric generator arranged in the bottom bracket for supplying the measuring device with electrical energy.
Description
Cableless rotational speed, torque and output sensor for bicycles DESCRIPTION
Field of the invention The present invention relates to a bottom bracket with a bottom bracket spindle and a measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of the bottom bracket spindle and/or a torque applied to the bottom bracket spindle for bicycles, ergometers or stationary fitness machines.
Prior art Drive devices for bicycles which contain torque measurement are known from DE
046 749. Also determining the direction of rotation and the speed of rotation e.g. by way of magnetic pole rings and Hall sensors or on the basis of optical measuring methods, are prior art. Such torque and/or rotational speed sensors have already been on the market for several years. To date, they have been used exclusively for so-called electric bicycles (more specifically, bicycles with an electric auxiliary drive, so-called "pedelecs") and are used to detect whether and how much the driver is pedaling Information for motor control is derived therefrom, with the aim of providing a harmonious, pleasant driving behavior as needed.
Such sensors are not yet useable in a meaningful manner for conventional bicycles driven by muscular power, although there is a high demand for information on "rotational speed"
and "torque" of the bottom bracket spindle. For example, mobile terminals are available today which are capable of receiving a variety of sensor information and therewith enable, e.g. recording personal activity logs, pursuing physical and/or sports activities, and energy/nutritional demands. Sporty and ambitious cyclists desire information about their actual mechanical performance (performance sensors) for training and diagnostic purposes.
The obstacle, which so far makes using conventional sensors in the bicycle bottom bracket area less feasible, is the difficulty of supplying the sensor system with current. Current is required both for the actual measurement and for the typically wireless signal transmission to the terminal (e.g., bicycle computer, smartphone, smart watch, tablet, etc.).
Battery operation is expensive due to the frequent need for replacement, is not very customer-oriented and hardly feasible in view of the confined space in the bottom bracket region. In addition, connection to a generator driven by the wheel ("dynamo") is unattractive because the
Field of the invention The present invention relates to a bottom bracket with a bottom bracket spindle and a measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of the bottom bracket spindle and/or a torque applied to the bottom bracket spindle for bicycles, ergometers or stationary fitness machines.
Prior art Drive devices for bicycles which contain torque measurement are known from DE
046 749. Also determining the direction of rotation and the speed of rotation e.g. by way of magnetic pole rings and Hall sensors or on the basis of optical measuring methods, are prior art. Such torque and/or rotational speed sensors have already been on the market for several years. To date, they have been used exclusively for so-called electric bicycles (more specifically, bicycles with an electric auxiliary drive, so-called "pedelecs") and are used to detect whether and how much the driver is pedaling Information for motor control is derived therefrom, with the aim of providing a harmonious, pleasant driving behavior as needed.
Such sensors are not yet useable in a meaningful manner for conventional bicycles driven by muscular power, although there is a high demand for information on "rotational speed"
and "torque" of the bottom bracket spindle. For example, mobile terminals are available today which are capable of receiving a variety of sensor information and therewith enable, e.g. recording personal activity logs, pursuing physical and/or sports activities, and energy/nutritional demands. Sporty and ambitious cyclists desire information about their actual mechanical performance (performance sensors) for training and diagnostic purposes.
The obstacle, which so far makes using conventional sensors in the bicycle bottom bracket area less feasible, is the difficulty of supplying the sensor system with current. Current is required both for the actual measurement and for the typically wireless signal transmission to the terminal (e.g., bicycle computer, smartphone, smart watch, tablet, etc.).
Battery operation is expensive due to the frequent need for replacement, is not very customer-oriented and hardly feasible in view of the confined space in the bottom bracket region. In addition, connection to a generator driven by the wheel ("dynamo") is unattractive because the
2 cabling is complex and susceptible to faults and only few bicycles still have a dynamo. A
wired configuration is disadvantageous for the same reason, even for electric bicycles which dispose of sufficient battery capacity.
Description of the invention The object of the invention, therefore, is to provide a power supply for a torque and/or rotational speed sensor in the bicycle bottom bracket without having to resort to batteries, cabling or an external current source.
This object is satisfied by a device according to claim 1. According to claim 1, the bottom bracket according to the invention comprises a bottom bracket spindle; a measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of the bottom bracket spindle and/or of a torque applied to the bottom bracket spindle; and an electric generator arranged in the bottom bracket for supplying the measuring device with electrical energy. This bears the advantage that the electrical energy is generated in the bottom bracket itself. No external energy source is required. The generator receives mechanical energy from the rotational motion of the bottom bracket spindle and converts it partially into electrical energy.
According to a further development of the device according to the invention, the measuring device can comprise a radio module with an antenna for wireless data transmission between the measuring device and a mobile terminal, where the radio module is designed in particular for data transmission by way of Bluetooth, ANT, ANT +, ZigBee, Z-Wave or WLAN.
This radio technology is particularly suitable for transmitting data to a mobile data device over short distances.
According to another development, the measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of the bottom bracket spindle can comprise a magnetic pole ring and at least one Hall sensor, where the measuring device is in particular also suitable for measuring a direction of rotation. This is a particularly advantageous realization of a rotational speed measuring device.
In a preferred embodiment, the electric generator comprises the magnetic pole ring and an induction coil. In this way, the already existing pole ring is further used for generating electrical energy in that electrical voltage is induced by the interaction of the rotating magnetic poles on the pole ring with at least one induction coil therein.
wired configuration is disadvantageous for the same reason, even for electric bicycles which dispose of sufficient battery capacity.
Description of the invention The object of the invention, therefore, is to provide a power supply for a torque and/or rotational speed sensor in the bicycle bottom bracket without having to resort to batteries, cabling or an external current source.
This object is satisfied by a device according to claim 1. According to claim 1, the bottom bracket according to the invention comprises a bottom bracket spindle; a measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of the bottom bracket spindle and/or of a torque applied to the bottom bracket spindle; and an electric generator arranged in the bottom bracket for supplying the measuring device with electrical energy. This bears the advantage that the electrical energy is generated in the bottom bracket itself. No external energy source is required. The generator receives mechanical energy from the rotational motion of the bottom bracket spindle and converts it partially into electrical energy.
According to a further development of the device according to the invention, the measuring device can comprise a radio module with an antenna for wireless data transmission between the measuring device and a mobile terminal, where the radio module is designed in particular for data transmission by way of Bluetooth, ANT, ANT +, ZigBee, Z-Wave or WLAN.
This radio technology is particularly suitable for transmitting data to a mobile data device over short distances.
According to another development, the measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of the bottom bracket spindle can comprise a magnetic pole ring and at least one Hall sensor, where the measuring device is in particular also suitable for measuring a direction of rotation. This is a particularly advantageous realization of a rotational speed measuring device.
In a preferred embodiment, the electric generator comprises the magnetic pole ring and an induction coil. In this way, the already existing pole ring is further used for generating electrical energy in that electrical voltage is induced by the interaction of the rotating magnetic poles on the pole ring with at least one induction coil therein.
3 A further development thereof is that the pole ring is arranged in a rotationally fixed manner on the bottom bracket spindle or on a bottom bracket housing. The pole ring can be fixedly attached to the bottom bracket spindle and rotate, while the induction coil does not rotate along. Alternatively, the induction coil can rotate with the bottom bracket spindle, in which case the pole ring does not rotate.
According to another development, the electric generator can be a linear generator For example, an eccentric disk can rotate with the bottom bracket spindle and actuate the linear generator. The linear motor can comprise a magnet which is moved up and down in this manner and past a coil.
According to another development, the measuring device for measuring a torque applied to the bottom bracket spindle can comprise a magnetostrictive sensor. Measurement of the torque is performed in a particularly compact manner with a magnetostrictive sensor.
One development of this is that the magnetostrictive sensor can comprise a permanently magnetized region of the bottom bracket spindle and a magnetic field strength sensor. This represents a particularly simple and reliable configuration of the magnetostrictive sensor.
According to another embodiment, the electric generator can be designed to generate electrical power of 0.1 mW to 10 W, in particular, of 1 mW to 100 mW. This output range is sufficient for supplying the measuring device, including data transmission to a mobile terminal.
According to another development, the measuring device can be designed to determine the mechanical output from the torque measured and the rotational speed measured.
For example, the power exerted by a user of a bicycle with this bottom bracket can be determined in this way.
Another development is that the measuring device can further comprise a memory for storing readings. The readings can be temporarily stored in the event that there is an interruption of the wireless connection to the mobile terminal.
According to another development, the measuring device can further comprise a capacitor and/or a rechargeable battery, which is connected in such a way that electrical energy generated by the electric generator can be stored in part. For example, in the event of an interruption of the rotary motion (and therefore interruption of the generation of electrical
According to another development, the electric generator can be a linear generator For example, an eccentric disk can rotate with the bottom bracket spindle and actuate the linear generator. The linear motor can comprise a magnet which is moved up and down in this manner and past a coil.
According to another development, the measuring device for measuring a torque applied to the bottom bracket spindle can comprise a magnetostrictive sensor. Measurement of the torque is performed in a particularly compact manner with a magnetostrictive sensor.
One development of this is that the magnetostrictive sensor can comprise a permanently magnetized region of the bottom bracket spindle and a magnetic field strength sensor. This represents a particularly simple and reliable configuration of the magnetostrictive sensor.
According to another embodiment, the electric generator can be designed to generate electrical power of 0.1 mW to 10 W, in particular, of 1 mW to 100 mW. This output range is sufficient for supplying the measuring device, including data transmission to a mobile terminal.
According to another development, the measuring device can be designed to determine the mechanical output from the torque measured and the rotational speed measured.
For example, the power exerted by a user of a bicycle with this bottom bracket can be determined in this way.
Another development is that the measuring device can further comprise a memory for storing readings. The readings can be temporarily stored in the event that there is an interruption of the wireless connection to the mobile terminal.
According to another development, the measuring device can further comprise a capacitor and/or a rechargeable battery, which is connected in such a way that electrical energy generated by the electric generator can be stored in part. For example, in the event of an interruption of the rotary motion (and therefore interruption of the generation of electrical
4 energy by the generator), power supply to the measuring device can continue to be provided in order to complete, for example, a data transmission.
Furthermore, the measuring device can comprise an evaluation device for processing sensor data received. The sensor data can originate from Hall sensors of a rotational speed sensor and/or from a magnetostrictive sensor for torque measurement.
The invention further relates to a bicycle or a stationary fitness machine/ergometer with a bottom bracket according to the invention.
Further features and advantages of the present invention shall be described below with reference to the figures which merely illustrate embodiments and do not represent the entire scope of the invention. It is to be understood that the features shown can be used within the scope of the invention in combinations other than those described in the examples.
Brief description of the drawings Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a second embodiment of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a third embodiment of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Description of the embodiments Figure 1 shows a first embodiment 100 of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Bottom bracket 100 comprises a bottom bracket spindle 110, a measuring device 120, 130, 140 for measuring a rotational speed of bottom bracket spindle 110, and an electric generator 150, 130 arranged in bottom bracket 100 for supplying the measuring device with electrical energy. The measuring device is presently composed of a pole ring 130 provided on the outer edge having alternately arranged magnetic north and south poles, one or more Hall sensors 140 for detecting the magnetic fields of the north and south poles of the rotating pole ring. The rotational speed of the pole ring and therefore of bottom bracket spindle 110 can be determined therefrom. The measuring device further comprises an evaluation device 120 which processes the signals of Hall sensor(s) 140. The direction of rotation can also be concluded based on a phase offset in the arrangement of Hall sensors 140 with respect to the periodicity of the north and south poles of pole ring 130. Electric generator 130, 150 presently comprises already described magnet wheel 130 as well as a coil 150, past which the magnetic poles of magnet wheel 130 are led during its rotation, while inducing a voltage in coil 150. This electrical energy thus produced is supplied to measuring device 120, 130, 140, in particular to evaluation device 120. The components mentioned are arranged in a bottom bracket housing 160, where only bottom bracket spindle 110 protrudes on either side, and where a pedal crank is attached at each end and mechanically actuated by a user.
Figure 2 shows a second embodiment 200 of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Identical elements from Figure 1 are provided with the same reference numerals, where only the hundred digit is increased to 2.
The measuring device there further comprises a magnetostrictive sensor 215, 270, which is composed of a circumferentially magnetized region 215 of bottom bracket spindle 210 and a magnetic field sensor 270. Evaluation device 220 is configured to determine a torque applied to bottom bracket spindle 210. Furthermore, a transmission module 222 with an antenna 224 is provided for transmitting data signals from evaluation unit 220 to a mobile terminal (not shown).
Figure 3 shows a third embodiment 300 of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Identical elements from Figures 1 and 2 are there provided with the same reference numerals, where only the hundred digit is increased to 3.
Only a torque sensor 315, 370 but no rotational speed sensor is shown there. A
wheel 335 with a periodic structure on the circumference is arranged on spindle 310 instead of the magnet wheel of Figures 1 and 2. For example, the distance from the center of wheel 335 to the circumference in the form of a cosine function can vary by an average radius, where the circumference is divided into an integer number of periods. The circumference of the wheel 335 with the variable radius actuates a linear generator 380 during a rotation. The latter comprises a magnet 381 which is mounted within a guide with a spring element 382 and is moved up and down by the circumference of wheel 335. Furthermore, a coil 350 is provided in which a voltage is induced by the motion of magnet 381. Additionally provided in evaluation device 320 is presently a capacitor 326, which partially stores the electrical energy from linear generator 380 in order to be able to supply electrical energy to the measuring device, in particular the evaluation device 320 and the transmitter module 322, when the supply of power by linear generator 380 is interrupted.
In summary: The current demand of the sensor system in the bottom bracket (namely, for the actual sensor system and for the wireless signal transmission) is covered by an integrated miniature generator: electrical energy in the range of 1.. 100 mW
is generated from the rotational motion of the bottom bracket spindle in a manner similar to a wheel-driven dynamo. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a pole ring, which is used for the detection of the rotational speed and the direction of rotation, suffices for simultaneous current generation by induction coils. Immediately available from the information "torque"
and "speed" is the mechanical output, the temporal curve of which leads to the energy consumption. This data is transmitted wirelessly e.g. via Bluetooth, ANT or similar protocols, to a terminal and is there available for further evaluation, storage, etc.
Conventional bicycles or stationary fitness machines/ergometers can provide valuable data wirelessly in this manner without any obstructing and complex structural changes (in particular without cabling). Advantages include: minimal component complexity, easy integration into conventional bicycles or ergometers/fitness machines; wirelessness; avoidance of structural complexity, costs, and proneness to faults in the cabling; user friendliness;
avoidance of regular battery changes or recharging, or a battery possibly present is recharged by the generator.
Furthermore, the measuring device can comprise an evaluation device for processing sensor data received. The sensor data can originate from Hall sensors of a rotational speed sensor and/or from a magnetostrictive sensor for torque measurement.
The invention further relates to a bicycle or a stationary fitness machine/ergometer with a bottom bracket according to the invention.
Further features and advantages of the present invention shall be described below with reference to the figures which merely illustrate embodiments and do not represent the entire scope of the invention. It is to be understood that the features shown can be used within the scope of the invention in combinations other than those described in the examples.
Brief description of the drawings Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a second embodiment of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a third embodiment of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Description of the embodiments Figure 1 shows a first embodiment 100 of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Bottom bracket 100 comprises a bottom bracket spindle 110, a measuring device 120, 130, 140 for measuring a rotational speed of bottom bracket spindle 110, and an electric generator 150, 130 arranged in bottom bracket 100 for supplying the measuring device with electrical energy. The measuring device is presently composed of a pole ring 130 provided on the outer edge having alternately arranged magnetic north and south poles, one or more Hall sensors 140 for detecting the magnetic fields of the north and south poles of the rotating pole ring. The rotational speed of the pole ring and therefore of bottom bracket spindle 110 can be determined therefrom. The measuring device further comprises an evaluation device 120 which processes the signals of Hall sensor(s) 140. The direction of rotation can also be concluded based on a phase offset in the arrangement of Hall sensors 140 with respect to the periodicity of the north and south poles of pole ring 130. Electric generator 130, 150 presently comprises already described magnet wheel 130 as well as a coil 150, past which the magnetic poles of magnet wheel 130 are led during its rotation, while inducing a voltage in coil 150. This electrical energy thus produced is supplied to measuring device 120, 130, 140, in particular to evaluation device 120. The components mentioned are arranged in a bottom bracket housing 160, where only bottom bracket spindle 110 protrudes on either side, and where a pedal crank is attached at each end and mechanically actuated by a user.
Figure 2 shows a second embodiment 200 of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Identical elements from Figure 1 are provided with the same reference numerals, where only the hundred digit is increased to 2.
The measuring device there further comprises a magnetostrictive sensor 215, 270, which is composed of a circumferentially magnetized region 215 of bottom bracket spindle 210 and a magnetic field sensor 270. Evaluation device 220 is configured to determine a torque applied to bottom bracket spindle 210. Furthermore, a transmission module 222 with an antenna 224 is provided for transmitting data signals from evaluation unit 220 to a mobile terminal (not shown).
Figure 3 shows a third embodiment 300 of the bottom bracket according to the invention.
Identical elements from Figures 1 and 2 are there provided with the same reference numerals, where only the hundred digit is increased to 3.
Only a torque sensor 315, 370 but no rotational speed sensor is shown there. A
wheel 335 with a periodic structure on the circumference is arranged on spindle 310 instead of the magnet wheel of Figures 1 and 2. For example, the distance from the center of wheel 335 to the circumference in the form of a cosine function can vary by an average radius, where the circumference is divided into an integer number of periods. The circumference of the wheel 335 with the variable radius actuates a linear generator 380 during a rotation. The latter comprises a magnet 381 which is mounted within a guide with a spring element 382 and is moved up and down by the circumference of wheel 335. Furthermore, a coil 350 is provided in which a voltage is induced by the motion of magnet 381. Additionally provided in evaluation device 320 is presently a capacitor 326, which partially stores the electrical energy from linear generator 380 in order to be able to supply electrical energy to the measuring device, in particular the evaluation device 320 and the transmitter module 322, when the supply of power by linear generator 380 is interrupted.
In summary: The current demand of the sensor system in the bottom bracket (namely, for the actual sensor system and for the wireless signal transmission) is covered by an integrated miniature generator: electrical energy in the range of 1.. 100 mW
is generated from the rotational motion of the bottom bracket spindle in a manner similar to a wheel-driven dynamo. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a pole ring, which is used for the detection of the rotational speed and the direction of rotation, suffices for simultaneous current generation by induction coils. Immediately available from the information "torque"
and "speed" is the mechanical output, the temporal curve of which leads to the energy consumption. This data is transmitted wirelessly e.g. via Bluetooth, ANT or similar protocols, to a terminal and is there available for further evaluation, storage, etc.
Conventional bicycles or stationary fitness machines/ergometers can provide valuable data wirelessly in this manner without any obstructing and complex structural changes (in particular without cabling). Advantages include: minimal component complexity, easy integration into conventional bicycles or ergometers/fitness machines; wirelessness; avoidance of structural complexity, costs, and proneness to faults in the cabling; user friendliness;
avoidance of regular battery changes or recharging, or a battery possibly present is recharged by the generator.
Claims (11)
1. Bottom bracket comprising:
a bottom bracket spindle;
a measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of said bottom bracket spindle and a torque applied to said bottom bracket spindle;
an electric generator arranged in said bottom bracket for converting mechanical energy from a rotational motion of said bottom bracket spindle into electrical energy for supplying said measuring device with electrical energy;
where said measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of said bottom bracket spindle comprises a magnetic pole ring arranged in a rotationally fixed manner on said bottom bracket spindle and at least one Hall sensor; and where said measuring device for measuring a torque applied to said bottom bracket spindle comprises a magnetostrictive sensor, and said magnetostrictive sensor comprises a permanently magnetized region of said bottom bracket spindle and a magnetic field strength sensor.
a bottom bracket spindle;
a measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of said bottom bracket spindle and a torque applied to said bottom bracket spindle;
an electric generator arranged in said bottom bracket for converting mechanical energy from a rotational motion of said bottom bracket spindle into electrical energy for supplying said measuring device with electrical energy;
where said measuring device for measuring a rotational speed of said bottom bracket spindle comprises a magnetic pole ring arranged in a rotationally fixed manner on said bottom bracket spindle and at least one Hall sensor; and where said measuring device for measuring a torque applied to said bottom bracket spindle comprises a magnetostrictive sensor, and said magnetostrictive sensor comprises a permanently magnetized region of said bottom bracket spindle and a magnetic field strength sensor.
2. Bottom bracket according to claim 1, where said measuring device comprises a radio module with an antenna for wireless signal transmission between said measuring device and a mobile terminal.
3. Bottom bracket according to claim 1 or 2, where said measuring device is also suitable for measuring a direction of rotation.
4. Bottom bracket according to any one of claims 1 to 3, where said electric generator comprises said magnetic pole ring and an induction coil.
5. Bottom bracket according to any one of claims 1 to 3, where said electric generator is a linear generator.
6. Bottom bracket according to any one of claims 1 to 5, where said electric generator is designed to generate electrical power of 0.1 mW to 10 W.
7. Bottom bracket according to any one of claims 1 to 6, where said measuring device is designed to determine the mechanical output from the torque measured and the rotational speed measured.
8. Bottom bracket according to any one of claims 1 to 7, where said measuring device further comprises a memory for storing measured values.
9. Bottom bracket according to any one of claims 1 to 8, where said measuring device further comprises a capacitor and/or a rechargeable battery which is connected in such a way that electrical energy generated by said electric generator can be stored in part.
10. Bottom bracket according to any one of claims 1 to 8, where said measuring device comprises an evaluation device for processing sensor data received.
11. Device with a bottom bracket according to any one of the claims 1 to 10, where said device is a bicycle, an ergometer or a fitness machine.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP15153187.8 | 2015-01-30 | ||
| EP15153187.8A EP3050790B1 (en) | 2015-01-30 | 2015-01-30 | Cordless speed, torque and power sensor for bicycles |
| PCT/EP2015/078882 WO2016119958A1 (en) | 2015-01-30 | 2015-12-07 | Cableless rotational speed, torque and output sensor for bicycles |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2975338A1 CA2975338A1 (en) | 2016-08-04 |
| CA2975338C true CA2975338C (en) | 2019-11-26 |
Family
ID=52434627
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2975338A Active CA2975338C (en) | 2015-01-30 | 2015-12-07 | Cableless rotational speed, torque and output sensor for bicycles |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP3050790B1 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN107209201B (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2975338C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2016119958A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN108163128A (en) * | 2018-02-27 | 2018-06-15 | 宋文平 | A kind of bilateral chain wheel axle torsion sensor of moped based on counter magnetostriction effect |
| CN109060211B (en) * | 2018-07-12 | 2020-11-06 | 北京黑鸟科技有限公司 | Power measuring device for riding platform |
| CN109917150A (en) * | 2019-02-12 | 2019-06-21 | 贵州大学 | A kind of Intelligent infrared rotary speed detecting system |
| DE102019218724A1 (en) * | 2019-12-03 | 2021-06-10 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Data management device for a two-wheeler |
| EP4116688A1 (en) | 2021-07-05 | 2023-01-11 | Ncte Ag | Torque measurement on a disc |
| EP4123277A1 (en) | 2021-07-19 | 2023-01-25 | Ncte Ag | Torque measurement with correction of magnetic field |
| EP4141399B1 (en) | 2021-08-27 | 2024-10-02 | Ncte Ag | Coil assembly and torque sensor with coil assembly |
| EP4173753A1 (en) | 2021-10-28 | 2023-05-03 | Ncte Ag | Electric hand tool with torque sensor and certification system |
Family Cites Families (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2008109914A2 (en) * | 2006-10-30 | 2008-09-18 | Robert Masterton Smith | Method and apparatus for measuring and monitoring torque exerted during pedalling of a bicycle or the like equipment |
| DE102007046749A1 (en) | 2007-05-16 | 2008-11-20 | Schaeffler Kg | Drive device with a drive shaft and a device for detecting a torque |
| DE102007040016A1 (en) * | 2007-08-24 | 2009-02-26 | Schaeffler Kg | Method and device for measuring force, torque and power on an ergometer or bicycle |
| CN201247153Y (en) * | 2008-08-19 | 2009-05-27 | 昆山市创新科技检测仪器有限公司 | Comprehensive tester for detecting body-building bicycle |
| DE102010031848A1 (en) * | 2010-07-22 | 2012-01-26 | Schaeffler Technologies Gmbh & Co. Kg | Bottom bracket for a bicycle |
| US8492914B2 (en) * | 2010-08-05 | 2013-07-23 | Hyundai Motor Company | Crank-web mounted linearly segmented starter generator system |
| GB2482696A (en) * | 2010-08-11 | 2012-02-15 | Martin Andrew Jackson | Force-sensing bicycle pedal and electric cycle |
| KR101239193B1 (en) * | 2010-11-30 | 2013-03-05 | 안성준 | Bicycle bottom bracket capable of power generation |
| JP2014521105A (en) * | 2011-07-18 | 2014-08-25 | マイケル， ジェイ グラッシ， | Torque sensor |
| CN202491901U (en) * | 2012-01-11 | 2012-10-17 | 久鼎金属实业股份有限公司 | Assisting power control mechanism for electric bicycle |
-
2015
- 2015-01-30 EP EP15153187.8A patent/EP3050790B1/en active Active
- 2015-12-07 CN CN201580075090.3A patent/CN107209201B/en active Active
- 2015-12-07 WO PCT/EP2015/078882 patent/WO2016119958A1/en active Application Filing
- 2015-12-07 CA CA2975338A patent/CA2975338C/en active Active
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP3050790B1 (en) | 2018-05-02 |
| CA2975338A1 (en) | 2016-08-04 |
| EP3050790A1 (en) | 2016-08-03 |
| CN107209201A (en) | 2017-09-26 |
| CN107209201B (en) | 2019-11-19 |
| WO2016119958A1 (en) | 2016-08-04 |
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