DE202016000321U1 - Electronic device for determining the force exerted by a cyclist on a pedal of a bicycle - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic apparatus (6) installable in a bicycle (2) for determining a first quantity indicative of and / or corresponding to the force and / or power exerted by a cyclist on a pedal of the bicycle (2) said bicycle (2) being provided with a pedal arm (3) and a pedal body (5) coupled to the pedal arm (3) via a pedal axle bearing (4) extending along a longitudinal axis (A) approximately orthogonal to the pedal arm (3); said electronic apparatus (6) comprising: a sensor circuit (8) provided with deformation sensors permanently mounted on an outer surface portion (4b) of said pedal axle bearing (4) between the pedal arm (3) and the pedal body (5) are arranged to provide electrical measurement signals indicative of a degree of deformation caused by the force exerted by the cyclist on the pedal axle bearing (4); said apparatus (6) being characterized by comprising: an electronic circuit (9) disposed at an external location with respect to said pedal axle bearing (4), between the pedal arm (3) and the pedal body (5), electrically associated with said strain sensors to receive said electrical measurement signals configured to determine said first magnitude based on the electrical measurement signals and to perform a wireless communication to connect said first quantity to an external electronic receiving device (7 ) is transmitted; Elements for storing electrical energy (10) (21) arranged at an external location with respect to said pedal axle bearing (4), between the pedal arm (3) and the pedal body (5), and those of said electronic circuit (9) are electrically assigned to electrically power this circuit; and an outer protective sheath (11) which is substantially annular, which is permanently wedged to the outer surface of said pedal axle journal (4), between the pedal arm (3) and the pedal body (5) and inside said sensor circuit (8), said electronic circuit (9) and said electrical energy storage elements (10) (21).

Description

The present invention relates to an electronic device for determining the force exerted by a cyclist on a pedal of a bicycle.

As is known, there are several types of electronic measurement systems configured to measure the force exerted by a cyclist on a bicycle.

These electronic systems / devices differ according to the type of sensors used to measure the force (piezometric sensor, strain gauges, optical sensors, magnetic sensors, etc.) and according to the arrangement of the sensors themselves in the various components of the bicycle (sprocket , Pedal arm (crankarm), pedal (pedal), pedal axle bearing, etc.).

A first known type of force measuring system / apparatus used on pedal axle bearings is described in the following publication: Reiser II, et al., Entitled "Instrument Bicycle Pedals for Dynamic Measurement of Propulsive Cycling Loads""SportsEngineering", 2003, vol. 6, p. 41-48 (The Reiser System) , This system is mounted in a stationary / stationary type pedaling exercise machine and includes a series of strain transducers which are fixedly mounted on the outer surface of the pedal-spindle connecting the pedal body to the pedal arm. The strain gauges are electrically connected with each other and with an electric connector mounted on the pedal via two circuits which measure the variations in the impedance / resistance of the strain gauges caused by the deformations of the pedal axle bearing occurring during pedaling. In the present case, the measuring circuits each have a measurement configuration as Wheatstone bridge.

The system further includes an external portable computer, which in use is connected via an electrical cable to the pedal-mounted electrical connector to determine the variations in the impedance / resistance of the strain transducers measured across the Wheatstone bridge. The portable computer also determines, due to the measured variations in impedance / resistance, the two components of the force applied to the pedal, that is, a radial component of force parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pedal arm and, as is known, pedaling is not useful as a force (waste force), and a tangential force component that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the pedal arm, and tangent to the rotational extent of the pedal, which, as is known, represents the useful force applied to the pedal (power force) ,

The Reiser system described above is obviously structured to be used in a stationary / pedaling type pedal exercise machine in a test laboratory, and because of the presence of the electric cable and the external computer, and therefore because of the space required, in a (mobile ) Bicycle completely inappropriate under normal conditions of use.

There are also known gauges specially structured to be installed on (non-stationary) bicycles to measure the force exerted on the pedal when the bicycle is in motion. For example, the patent describes US 8,011,242 B2 an electronic device, which is divided into two independent circuit parts, which are electrically connected to each other via external electrical connectors, wherein the first circuit part comprises deformation sensors, which are arranged completely inside the longitudinally aligned tubular cavity of the pedal axle bearing, that is, on the Inner surface of the pedal axle bearing are mounted, while the second circuit part comprises an electronic processing device for supply and transmission, which is arranged outside the pedal and is connected via wires to the deformation sensors, which extend along the interior itself.

In particular, the processing device for supply and transmission comprises a closed protective container which is arranged in such a way that its larger surface is arranged on the rear side of the pedal arm on the opposite side of the pedal axle bearing, and which contains in its interior an electronic board which the processed by the deformation sensors measuring signals to determine the force components, further includes batteries that power the electronics board and the deformation sensors and a transmitter for transmitting the measurement signals to a computer that is installed in the bike.

The protective container further comprises a central cylindrical projection projecting projecting from the larger surface and which is releasably inserted into a threaded end of the pedal axle bearing when it is screwed into the threaded hole of the pedal arm. On the protruding extension, the external electrical connectors are arranged, which are the processing device for supply and Electrically connect the transmission with the deformation sensors located in the interior of the pedal axle bearing.

Analogous to that in the patent US 8,327,723 B2 described apparatus two independent circuit parts, which are electrically connected to each other via external electrical connectors, wherein the first circuit part comprises deformation sensors, which are arranged on the outer surface of the pedal axle bearing, and measurement signal processing means, which are also arranged on the outer surface of the pedal axle bearing. On the other hand, the second circuit part is provided with an external pedal-external processing and supply electronic unit, which includes a pedal-external protection container containing the main means for processing the measurement signals and a battery.

The electronic unit for external processing and supply is provided with a male electrical connector projecting above from the outer surface of the container and releasably inserted into a female electrical connector provided in that end of the pedal axle bearing located in the threaded hole the pedal arm is screwed. The female plug is in turn connected to the strain sensors and to the signal processing means via wires received within the longitudinal hole of the pedal axle bearing.

Thus, the architectures of the two devices just described provide an electronic circuit part which is installed on the pedal axle bearing, an electronic circuit part mounted externally to the pedal axle bearing, and an electromechanical connection system connecting them, both mechanically, to the circuit part outside the pedal anchoring, as well as electrically, to provide the electrical energy for the present in the pedal axle bearing deformation sensors.

The electromechanical connection system has a relevant effect on the complexity and thus on the overall cost of manufacturing the apparatus. In addition, the electrical connectors of the electromechanical connection system are naturally exposed to moisture because they are external relative to the pedal, which could cause their oxidation and thus a long-term malfunction of the apparatus.

Furthermore, the external mounting of the electronic processing and supply unit with respect to the pedal determines, on the one hand, an overall increase in the size of the apparatus and, on the other hand, exposes the most sensitive part of the electronic architecture to stresses and / or shocks that can compromise or damage its function.

The applicant has therefore undertaken a thorough investigation with the aim of finding a solution which relates to an electronic apparatus for determining the cyclist 's power applied to a pedal of a moving bicycle in order to achieve at least the following objectives: Presence of external electrical connectors should be prevented, a constructive simplicity, a reduction in manufacturing costs and a compact structure to be achieved, it should be claimed a small space requirement, the apparatus should be hermetically sealed and positioned so that the risk of damage starting it is supposed to be easy to install on any type of pedal arm.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a solution which makes it possible to achieve at least the abovementioned objectives.

This object is achieved by the present invention insofar as it relates to an electronic apparatus for determining at least a first quantity indicating the force exerted by a cyclist on a pedal of a bicycle according to what is defined in the appended claims ,

The present invention will now be described with reference to the attached drawings, which illustrate a non-limiting embodiment thereof, wherein:

the 1 schematically and in enlarged detail shows a perspective view and a frontal elevational view of a bicycle equipped with the measuring system comprising an electronic apparatus according to the invention for determining a first quantity representing the force exerted by a cyclist on a pedal of a bicycle; Indicates performance;

the 2 a perspective view of the pedal arm, the pedal axle bearing, the pedal body and the apparatus according to 1 before their mutual assembly shows;

the 3 an exploded perspective view of the apparatus according to 2 shows;

the 4 a schematic longitudinal section of the mounted on the pedal axle bearing apparatus after 2 is;

the 5 a perspective view on an enlarged scale of the apparatus according to 2 with some parts removed for clarity;

the 6 a side elevation on an enlarged scale of the apparatus according to 2 with some parts removed for clarity;

the 7 a perspective view on an enlarged scale of the apparatus according to 2 is;

the 8th a perspective view on an enlarged scale of the external protective cover of the apparatus according to 2 is;

the 9 a side elevation on an enlarged scale of the external protective cover of the apparatus according to 2 is;

the 10 is a perspective view on an enlarged scale of the coupled with the pedal arm apparatus, wherein the inventively realized calibration system is visible.

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the same. Various changes to the described embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles described may be applied to other embodiments and applications without, therefore, departing from the protected scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. Thus, it should not be construed that the present invention is limited to the described and illustrated embodiments, but that the protective framework should be extended in accordance with the principles and features described and claimed herein.

With reference to the 1 becomes the entirety of a measuring system with 1 referred to a bicycle 2 is mounted, and which is configured such that it measures in use and the displacement thereof at least a first size indicative of the cyclist on one or both pedals of a bicycle 2 self-exerted / awarded power corresponds to or corresponds to this.

Of course the bike is 2 and is therefore not further described, except to point out that it, as in the 1 and 2 shown with a pair of pedal arms 3 and equipped with a pair of pedals, each one a pedal axle bearing 4 include that with a corresponding pedal arm 3 is coupled and extends along a longitudinal axis A, which is the longitudinal axis B of the pedal arm 3 is orthogonal, and a pedal body 5 includes that with the pedal axle bearing 4 is coupled so that it can rotate freely about the axis A and in use is adapted to form the structure for support / support for the Radfahrerfuß. In particular, the pedal axle bearing extends 4 in a protruding manner from the pedal body 5 making it a pedal arm 3 and has a threaded distal end 4a on top of that, the pedal body 5 opposite and into an internally threaded portion of a hole 3a screwed, that at a free end of the pedal arm 3 lies.

The measuring system 1 meanwhile includes an electronic device 6 pointing to the pedal axle bearing 4 between the pedal arm 3 and the pedal body 5 joined or toothed wedged or shrunk so that it is completely outside of the pedal axle bearing 4 itself remains, and is configured to determine said first quantity, which gives an indication of at least the force / power.

The system 1 further comprises an electronic device as a communication device and user interface 7 which is configured to disconnect from the apparatus 6 at least receiving the first quantity, processing said quantity so as to determine useful information for the cyclist and to provide this information to the cyclist himself. For example, the useful information could include: power, torque, and / or the force exerted by the cyclist on the pedal, the radial component of the force, the tangential component of the force, the position that the cyclist must assume, the to provide maximum power, the difference in power / force exerted on the two pedals, the power exerted at the peak of the thrust and on the opposite, opposite side, graphics of performance recorded during the trip, or graphics that the course of the force exerted on a pedal during one complete revolution as a function of the angular position of the pedal arm 3 represent.

The electronic communication device and user interface device 7 may include a bicycle computer conveniently mounted on the handlebar (handlebar bike computer) and / or a portable device for user communication, a multimedia smart phone such as a smart phone, or any similar electronic device capable of meeting such sizes to process and communicate the signals / data preferably bidirectionally with the electronic device 6 perform.

The calculation and user interface device 7 is of a known type and will therefore not be further described except to indicate that it is preferably a display 7a , a control device 7b may include (such as a keyboard, a touch screen, or the like) through which the cyclist can issue commands, a device for communicating signals / data 7c for the exchange of signals / data, with the electronic apparatus 6 , a storage device 7d for storing data, and a processing unit 7e (at least one microprocessor) of the commands from the controller 7b and / or data from the communication device 7c receives and processes the commands and / or data to the user via the display 7a provide information useful to the cyclist.

Preferably, the device is for communicating signals / data 7c the communication device and user interface device 7 cordless type (radio) and may be configured to suitably implement an ANT + protocol or Bluetooth protocol or any similar wireless protocol.

With reference to the 3 and 4 , includes the electronic apparatus 6 a sensor circuit 8th that is permanent on the outer surface section 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 is coupled, in turn, between the pedal arm 3 and the pedal body 5 is arranged, and wherein the sensor circuit is adapted to the deformation / torsion of the pedal axle bearing 4 to measure myself.

The electronic apparatus 6 further includes an electronic circuit 9 and an electrical supply circuit 10 , which are essentially annular, so that they from the outside on the pedal axle bearing 4 be joined or wound or interlocked or wedged or shrunk (Italian: calettato) and axially along the pedal axle bearing 4 themselves are positioned so that they are directly opposite each other, and preferably on the underlying sensor circuit 8th issue ( 4 ).

The electronic apparatus 6 further comprises a protective container or shell or outer shell 11 which has substantially the shape of a ring, similar to a cupcake or Dognut or ring (Italian: ciambella), so that it on the outer surface portion 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 be fitted or mounted or interlocked or wedged or shrunk, and is dimensioned such that it in its interior the sensor circuit 8th , the electronic circuit 9 and the electrical supply circuit 10 contains.

According to a preferred embodiment, in the 3 and 4 is shown, the sensor circuit comprises 8th a set of deformation sensors that are permanent on the outer surface section 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 are arranged to detect the deformations / torsions that the pedal axle bearing is subjected to during pedaling, and those with the electronic circuit 9 are electrically connected to provide electrical signals (voltage / current) indicative of the variation of an electrical parameter, such as the variation in resistance or impedance caused by said deformation or torsion.

According to an exemplary embodiment, which in the 4 is shown, the sensor circuit 8th four strain gauges 8a . 8b . 8c . 8d (for example, strain gauge) which pairs on the outer surface portion 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 to be ordered. Preferably, the sensor circuit 8th a pair of support pads 8e include permanently on two corresponding flats or even surfaces 4c to be fixed on the pedal axle bearing 4 be obtained at mutually diametrically opposite positions so that they are parallel to each other and to the axis A.

With reference to the 3 and 4 can any support pad 8e expediently comprise a preferably rectangular flexible film made of insulating plastic, which has / integrates on the opposite longitudinal ends two strain gauges, which are defined by corresponding measuring gratings Gi. On the middle free sections of the support pads 8e In addition, it is expedient to position / print circuit sections Ki of a Wheatstone bridge and connections P1 or electrical contacting surfaces which connect the Wheatstone bridge to corresponding contact connections P2 of the electronic circuit 9 connect electrically. The terminals P1 of the sensor circuit 8th put the electronic circuit 9 the measurement signals available, which indicate a variation of the resistance or the impedance caused by the deformation / torsion of the pedal axle bearing 4 is caused.

According to another embodiment (not shown), the sensor circuit 8th eight strain gauges (strain gauges, for example) are included, which are arranged in pairs on four corresponding flats or flat surfaces resting on the pedal axle bearing 4 be obtained at mutually substantially orthogonal positions so that they are in pairs and parallel to the axis A. According to this variant, the sensor circuit 8th comprising four support pads permanently attached to the respective flat surfaces resting on the pedal axle bearing 4 each having a configuration analogous to that described above, that is to say having two strain gauges integrated on the opposite longitudinal ends, it is provided with a central circuit section which is diametrically opposed to the central circuit section Support pad forms a Wheatstone bridge, and it is equipped with the terminals that connect the two Wheatstone bridges to the contact terminals of the electronic circuit 9 connect. The Applicant has found that the use of eight strain sensors advantageously allows for the otherwise necessary calibration of the angular position of the strain gauges in relation to the pedal arm 3 to renounce. Accordingly, it is not necessary during assembly, the angular position of the pedal axle bearing 4 by a locknut and / or by calibration systems to block.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the use of strain gauges, but according to embodiments different from those described above, the strain gauges could be replaced by piezoelectric sensors or magnetic sensors or optical sensors.

According to a preferred embodiment, in the 3 and 4 is shown includes the electronic circuit 9 a printed circuit board or PCB card 9a having a discoidal shape or ring shape shaped and dimensioned to be on the outer surface portion 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 can be added or wound or interlocked or wedged or shrunk so that they from the outer surface 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 itself projecting, and so that it is arranged on a plane substantially orthogonal to the axis A. The circuit board 9a is preferably made of a rigid, insulating material and comprises: a central through hole 9b having an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the pedal axle bearing 4 is. The connection terminals P2 of the electronic circuit 9 expediently on the surface inner edge of the hole 9b be arranged, or on at least one surface of the circuit board 9a in the immediate vicinity of the hole 9b , The hole 9b may be substantially circular, and preferably have at least one chordal portion defining a rectilinear face, which in use is adapted to face on a plane 4c of the pedal axle bearing 4 to arrange, so as appropriate, a correct angular positioning of the diskoidal printed circuit board 9a in the pedal axle bearing 4 and the alignment of the terminals P2 with the terminals P1 of the sensor circuit 8th is favored. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to the positioning of the terminals P2 in the immediate vicinity of the terminals P1, but according to another embodiment, they may be connected to each other via wires.

With reference to the example that is in the 3 is shown on the circuit board 9a an electronic processing unit or stage 13 provided, for example, with a microprocessor connected to the terminals P2 to receive the electrical signals indicative of a variation in resistance / impedance caused by the deformation / torsion of the pedal axle bearing 4 and configured to execute a program for processing the pedal deformation, which, when implemented by the microprocessor, causes the microprocessor to execute an algorithm that determines the first quantity indicative of the received electrical measurement signal the power gives.

On the circuit board 9a may also preferably a memory level 14 be present with the processing stage 13 is connected and is adapted to store at least said program for processing the pedal deformation, and a communication stage 15 that with the electronic processing stage 13 is connected to receive at least the first size, and which is configured to be at least the first size itself to the device for communicating signals / data 7c to communicate. It is assumed that the communication level 15 an antenna module 19 ( 6 ) to provide bidirectional wireless type communication with the signal / data communication device 7c and may be configured to implement the same (previously described) communication protocol as the signal / data communication device 7c even.

With reference to the 3 can on the circuit board 9a furthermore, preferably at least one (single-axis or two-axis or three-axis) accelerometer 16 which is suitable in use for the processing stage 13 to provide an electrical signal indicative of the displacement (rotation) of the pedal and / or the bicycle 2 gives. In use, the processing level 13 be configured to process the signal indicative of the shift, so that a magnitude can be determined that is responsive to the cadence or frequency of the signal Pedal steps indicate (number of revolutions per minute). Furthermore, the processing level 13 be configured to determine the power applied to the pedal in a known manner, based on the frequency of the pedal strokes and the particular force (applied to the pedal itself).

Furthermore, the processing level 13 to be configured by the accelerometer, depending on the signal indicative of the shift 16 is provided to transition from a sleep state (standby or power saving) to an operative state by processing the electrical measurement signals (executing the program for processing the pedal deformation) to determine the first size.

With reference to the 6 can on the circuit board 9a further preferably an external electrical connector 18 be present, by which an updating operation of at least the program for processing the pedal deformation can be performed, in the storage stage 14 is included. Advantageously, the outer electrical connector 18 a watertight micro USB plug that stays permanently on the circuit board 9a is secured in the region of the outer peripheral edge. It will be understood, however, that according to other embodiments (not shown), the external electrical connector may include gold-plated wire pins or an annular circular conductor or the like.

With regard to the device for electrical supply 10 , with reference to the 3 . 4 and 6 Preferably, this includes a printed circuit board (PCB) formed by an approximately diskoidal or annular bearing card 20 is formed, which is shaped so that they on the pedal axle bearing 4 can be added in a position or mounted or interlocked or wedged or shrunk, the adjacent circuit board 9a parallel and facing this, and a series of batteries 21 permanently on the carrying card 20 are arranged and connected to supply terminals P3 on the carrying card 20 themselves are present.

According to a preferred embodiment, the carrying card comprises 20 a semi-rigid (ie, partially flexible) discoidal section made of insulating material and having a thickness between about 0.05 mm and 0.15 mm, preferably 0.1 mm. Preferably, the batteries include 21 three rechargeable type batteries which are permanently on the inside surface of the carrying card 20 arranged are the printed circuit board 9a facing them so that they are in use between the two cards 9a and 20 themselves are arranged and connected to the terminals P3 via a circuit on the supporting card 20 is printed.

According to a preferred embodiment, in the 6 will be shown, the three batteries 21 around the central hole of the map 20 arranged in a substantially triangular configuration while the carrying card 20 a protruding lateral extension 22 may include ( 5 ), to the circuit board 9a is bent along a substantially orthogonal direction, which houses the terminals P3 at the free end and presents its own end in contact with and abutting on the inner surface of the card 9 , and presents the terminals P3 as connected to terminals P4 (soldered) in the circuit board 9a yourself to get the electrical supply.

The applicant has determined that the triangular arrangement of the batteries 21 around the central hole and the use of a curved, flexible, lateral extension 22 it allows the space requirements of the device for electrical supply 10 to reduce greatly. In this context, it is appropriate to clarify that the three batteries 21 the device for electrical supply 10 in the immediate vicinity of the inner surface of the printed circuit board 9a can be arranged so that the space requirement can be appropriately reduced, and, thanks to their triangular arrangement, an antenna module 19 and the outer connector 18 at appropriate vacancies of the card 20 that from the batteries 21 are not occupied, can be positioned ( 6 ).

It is convenient to note that the present invention is not limited to the use of batteries, but that, according to embodiments other than those described above, the apparatus is for electrical supply 10 alternatively or in addition to the batteries, it could include high capacitance capacitors, such as supercapacitors, or electromagnetic induction generators.

With reference to a possible embodiment which is incorporated in the 4 . 7 . 8th and 9 is shown comprises the outer protective cover 11 a substantially cup-shaped body, the bottom of a through hole 23 on the outside of the pedal axle bearing 4 fitted, and on the opposite side by a discoidal lid 24 is closed, which is also outside the pedal axle bearing 4 is adapted and inserted into the opening of the cup-shaped body or coupled thereto.

In the example that in the 4 and 9 is illustrated, the outer protective cover 11 from a rigid, preferably for electromagnetic Shaft permeable material made, for example, a plastic material or a metallic material, and is divided into two parts, with a first part 11a dimensioned so that he in his own inner seat, the sensor circuit 8th , the circuit board 9a with the appropriate components, the carrying card 20 and the batteries 21 may contain during the second part 11b has a conical shape and is dimensioned to the outside of the pedal axle bearing 4 to be worn.

According to a possible, exemplary embodiment, which in the 2 . 5 and 7 is shown, the outer protective cover 11 outside on the pedal axle bearing 4 fitted so adapted that the first part 11a the pedal arm 3 is arranged opposite, preferably in close proximity to / at the stop against a lock nut 25 on the threaded section 4a the end of the pedal axle bearing 4 is screwed while the second part 11b opposite the pedal body 5 is located and has an outer diameter, which is advantageously smaller than the outer diameter of the first part 11a is so that in use no disturbing interaction with the cyclist's foot arises. Preferably, the second part 11b expediently be shaped so that it along the Pedalachsenlagers 4 runs so that it at least partially into the interior of the pedal body 5 can protrude.

According to a possible, exemplary embodiment, which in the 8th can be shown, the inner surface of the second section 11b be shaped so that they inner flats or flat surfaces 23a has, preferably four surfaces 23a which are mutually parallel in pairs and which abut on corresponding flat surfaces of the outer surface portion 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 are arranged so that a correct angular positioning of the shell 11 on the pedal axle bearing 4 itself can be guaranteed.

According to a possible, exemplary embodiment, which in the 7 and 8th is shown is on the lateral outer wall of the first section 11a which is preferably parallel to axis A, further includes an access opening 26 to the external connector 18 obtained in use suitably by a lid 27 can be closed, which is articulated on one side of the side wall, which is the opening 26 itself limited, and which is toothed with its snapping closure.

According to a possible, exemplary embodiment, which in the 4 is shown, the protective cover 11 internally filled with at least one preferably epoxy-containing resin R (for example, an insulating and / or thermosetting polymer plastic) containing the sensor circuit 8th , the circuit board 9a with the appropriate components, the carrying card 20 and the batteries 21 completely interspersed, so that together with the protective cover 11 and with the pedal axle bearing 4 a single (monolithic) body, that is, a single block is created.

It is further obvious that the resin is the printed circuit board 9a and the carrying card 20 at the pedal axle bearing 4 fixed in a rigid and immovable way and protects the same from the weather (water, moisture) or from external dirt (mud, dust), etc.

To the injection of the resin in the outer protective cover 11 via a needle (for example, a syringe) and to favor their homogeneous distribution between the inner cards / circuits, is a series of through holes 50 provided, which are preferably coaxial to each other and parallel to the axis A, wherein a first hole on the lid 24 is won ( 3 and 7 ), while a second hole on the circuit board 9a is won ( 6 ), which in turn at the outer peripheral edge expediently at least one opening 51 or hole which is suitable during the process of injection of the resin into the outer protective sheath 11 to let the air escape.

Like in the 8th Shown may be the inner surface of the first section 11a also be shaped so that they have a number of internal webs or ribs 27 which is inside the protective cover 11 towards the pedal axle bearing 4 run. Some ribs 27 are free and suitable, the adhesion of the resin to the shell 11 while other ribs are plugged into corresponding seats (not shown) at the outer peripheral edges of the printed circuit board 9a and the carrying card 20 to obtain the correct mutual angular positioning of the same and the sheath 11 to ensure.

According to a possible embodiment, which in the 10 can be shown, the measuring system 1 Furthermore, a calibration system 30 which is adapted to the angular position of the electronic apparatus 6 concerning the pedal arm 3 to calibrate to ensure that the deformation sensors of the sensor circuit 8th are arranged so that they directly measure the tangential component of the force exerted on the pedal. With reference to the 10 can the calibration system 30 comprise two indicator characters, the first of which, as a reference number 30a is referred to, on the outer surface of the pedal arm 3 is arranged, which the apparatus 6 while the second character is used as the calibration character 30b is designated on the outer side wall of the shell 11 is arranged. The two indicator signs 30a and 30b can have a dot and / or line or any character visible to an operator. In use, the angular position of the apparatus 6 such that the calibration mark 30b of the apparatus 6 with the reference number 30a of the pedal arm 3 is aligned ( 10 ). When an alignment has been achieved, the angular position of the apparatus becomes 6 and therefore the pedal axle bearing 4 about the axis A by tightening the lock nut 25 against the pedal arm 3 permanently set. According to a preferred embodiment, in the 10 can be shown, the calibration mark 30b include a visible, straight line on the to the pedal arm 3 opposite side surface of the shell 11 is acquired / recorded, and which lies on a plane which is coplanar to the longitudinal axis A and to the two flat surfaces 4c , on which the deformation sensors are arranged, is parallel. The reference number 30a however, a visible, straight line may comprise (for example, a cut line or a colored line) along the longitudinal axis B of the pedal arm 3 runs, preferably on the middle level of the pedal arm 3 itself so that it forms a segment following the outer peripheral edge of the envelope 11 having.

The apparatus described above 6 Thanks to its structure, it can be easily assembled in a practical way. Namely, it is provided, the deformation sensors 8th permanently on the outer surface section 4b of the pedal axle bearing 4 , between the pedal arm 3 and the pedal body 5 to attach the discoidal electronic circuit 9 externally on the pedal axle bearing 4 , between the pedal arm 3 and the pedal body 5 in the immediate vicinity of the deformation sensors 8th to raise the carrying card 20 externally on the pedal axle bearing 4 , between the pedal arm 3 and the pedal body 5 in the immediate vicinity of the deformation sensors, immediately adjacent to the discoidal electronic circuit 9 tease; then the outer protective cover 11 externally on the pedal axle bearing 4 Tighten it permanently so that it is between the pedal arm 3 and the pedal body 5 is arranged, and so that these are the deformation sensors, the electronic circuit 9 and the carrying card 20 contains; close the outer protective cover 11 through the lid 24 and inject the resin into the shell so that the electronic circuit 9 and the carrying card 20 soaked in it. Before the resin injection and insertion of the shell 11 , the extension may 22 the carrying card 20 are suitably bent and you can connect the terminals P3 to the terminals P4 and the terminals P2 to the terminals P1 electrically / solder.

Thanks to the encapsulation of all electrical circuits and the batteries with resin within a single envelope, one obtains an apparatus which has the following advantages. Initially, the apparatus is easy to construct, it is easy to assemble, it can be installed on any kind of pedal arm and therefore it reduces the time and therefore the cost of its manufacture and assembly. In addition, the apparatus is defined by a one-piece block containing all the electrical parts / connectors in its interior, and by the resin it keeps them completely protected and hermetically isolated from the outside world, resulting in a considerable reduction in the risk of damage to its electronic parts , The presence of the external micro USB connector also makes it possible to recharge the batteries and to update the processing program of pedal deformation in an advantageous way with apparatuses which are widely available on the market. The presence of indicator marks further allows the apparatus to be positioned in the correct angular position in an extremely convenient and fast manner during the assembly phase.

Thus became an apparatus 6 for determining the force exerted by a cyclist on a pedal of the bicycle 2 described. The apparatus comprises an annular outer protective cover 11 permanently outside the pedal axle bearing 4 , between the pedal arm 3 and the pedal body 5 is mounted, and includes in its interior: deformation sensors 8th , which are adapted to provide electrical measuring signals indicative of the deformation caused by a cyclist on the pedal axle bearing 4 is caused or corresponds to the force exerted; an electronic device for processing and communication 9 configured to determine the force and / or power due to the electrical measurement signals, and which performs a preferably wireless communication to an external electronic receiver 7 the power to communicate; and batteries associated with the electronic processing device 9 electrically connected to provide them with electrical power.

Finally, it will be understood that the apparatus described and illustrated above may be modified and variants made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US8011242 B2 [0007]
• US 8327723 B2 [0010]

Cited non-patent literature

• Reiser II, et al., Entitled "Instrument Bicycle Pedals for Dynamic Measurement of Propulsive Cycling Loads""SportsEngineering", 2003, vol. 6, p. 41-48 (The Reiser System) [0004]

Claims (14)

Electronic apparatus ( 6 ) in a bicycle ( 2 ) is installable to determine a first quantity indicative of the force and / or power exerted by a cyclist on a pedal of the bicycle ( 2 ) and / or corresponds to it, said bicycle ( 2 ) with a pedal arm ( 3 ) and a pedal body ( 5 ) equipped with the pedal arm ( 3 ) via a pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) which extends along a longitudinal axis (A), which is approximately to the pedal arm ( 3 ) is orthogonal; said electronic apparatus ( 6 ) Comprising: a sensor circuit ( 8th ), which is provided with deformation sensors which are permanently or stably on an outer surface portion ( 4b ) of said pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) between the pedal arm ( 3 ) and the pedal body ( 5 ) are arranged to provide electrical measurement signals indicative of a degree of deformation from the cyclist to the pedal axle bearing (Fig. 4 ) force is exerted; said apparatus ( 6 ) is characterized by comprising: an electronic circuit ( 9 ) located at an external location with respect to said pedal axle bearing ( 4 ), between the pedal arm ( 3 ) and the pedal body ( 5 ) electrically associated with said strain sensors to receive said electrical measurement signals configured to determine said first magnitude based on the electrical measurement signals and to perform wireless communication to cause said first magnitude to be communicated to an external one electronic receiver ( 7 ) is transmitted; Elements for storing electrical energy ( 10 ) ( 21 ) located at an external location with respect to said pedal axle bearing ( 4 ), between the pedal arm ( 3 ) and the pedal body ( 5 ) are arranged, and the said electronic circuit ( 9 ) are electrically associated to electrically power this circuit; and an outer protective cover ( 11 ), which is substantially annular, which is permanently on the outer surface of said pedal axle bearing ( 4 ), between the pedal arm ( 3 ) and the pedal body ( 5 ) or is wedged or wedged or shrunk, and in its interior said sensor circuit ( 8th ), said electronic circuit ( 9 ) and said elements for storing electrical energy ( 10 ) ( 21 ) contains. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said electronic circuit ( 9 ) a first discoidal printed circuit or PCB card ( 9a ) permanently on the outside of the pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) or is wedged or wedged or shrunk and is arranged on a plane that is substantially orthogonal to said longitudinal axis (A). Apparatus according to claims 1 or 2, wherein said elements for storing electrical energy ( 10 ) a second printed circuit board or PCB card ( 20 ) having a discoid shape shaped to be external to the pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) or spliced or wedged or shrunk, and a series of batteries ( 21 ) permanently on the said second printed circuit board ( 20 ) are arranged. Apparatus according to claim 3, comprising an electrical connector ( 18 ) associated with said batteries ( 21 electrically connected and adapted to be connected in use to an external supply device for electrically charging said batteries ( 21 ). Apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the electrical connector ( 18 ) comprises a microUSB plug or pins of a conductive material or a ring conductor. Apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said electronic circuit ( 9 ) a storage unit ( 14 ) containing a program for determining the first size; wherein said electrical connector ( 18 ) of said electronic circuit ( 9 ) and is adapted, in use, to be connected to an external electronic device for use in said memory unit ( 14 ) to modify said program for determining the first size. Apparatus according to claim 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein said second printed circuit board ( 20 ) comprises a thin, semi-rigid, discoidal section, said electrical energy storage elements ( 10 ) comprise three batteries of the rechargeable type which are located on the inner surface of the second printed circuit board ( 20 ) are fixed permanently or stably, in turn, the first circuit board ( 9 ) and in an approximately triangular configuration around the central hole of the second printed circuit board (FIG. 20 ) are arranged themselves. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said outer protective sheath ( 11 ) comprises a cup-shaped body having at the bottom a through hole ( 23 ), the outside of the pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) fitted or interlocked or wedged or shrunk and on the opposite side by a discoidal lid ( 24 ), which is also outside of the pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) customized is attached to close the opening of said cup-shaped body. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said outer protective sheath ( 11 ) is divided into two annular parts, wherein a first part ( 11a ) the deformation sensors, the electronic circuit ( 9 ) and the elements for storing electrical energy ( 10 ) ( 21 ) and a second part ( 11b ) has a conical shape and is dimensioned to the outside of the pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) fitted or toothed or wedged or shrunk. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said outer protective sheath ( 11 ) is filled inside with a resin containing the deformation sensors, the electronic circuit ( 9 ) and the elements for storing electrical energy ( 10 ) ( 21 ) are so impregnated or enforced that they are angularly fixedly connected to said pedal axle bearing and so that these, together with the pedal axle bearing and with the outer protective cover ( 11 ), to form a single body. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said strain sensors comprise four strain gauges ( 8a . 8b . 8c . 8d ) in pairs on two corresponding outer flat surfaces ( 4c ) of the pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) are attached to each other at approximately diametrically opposite positions so that they are parallel to each other and to the longitudinal axis (A). Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said strain sensors comprise eight strain gauges arranged in pairs on four corresponding planar surfaces of the pedal axle bearing ( 4 ) are arranged at mutually orthogonal positions so that they are parallel to each other in pairs and to the axis A. Apparatus according to claim 11, wherein said pedal arm ( 3 ) a visible reference symbol ( 30a ), and said outer protective cover ( 11 ) has a visible calibration mark, which together with the reference symbol ( 30a ) the rotation about the longitudinal axis (A) with respect to the pedal arm ( 3 ) indicating the apparatus ( 6 ) so that the strain sensors are arranged to measure the tangential component of the force applied to the pedal. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one accelerometer ( 16 ) adapted to provide an electrical signal indicative of the displacement / position of the pedal; wherein said electronic circuit ( 9 ) is further configured to process the signal indicative of the displacement / position of the pedal so as to determine a magnitude indicative of the cadence or frequency of the pedal treads, and determined based on the determined frequency and power, the power applied to the pedal.

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