IT201800003780A1 - BICYCLE SIMULATOR - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

of the Italian Patent for Industrial Invention entitled:

"BICYCLE SIMULATOR"

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a simulator for a bicycle, in particular, a simulator adapted to be used with a (complete) bicycle for the simulation in static conditions (on site), typically in indoor environments, of dynamic cycling conditions, typically in an outdoor environment.

PRE-EXISTING TECHNIQUE

Support devices are known for a stationary bicycle that simulates the conditions of travel on the road, which allow the user to get on the bicycle in static conditions and pedal, while remaining in place, by rotating the rear (driving) wheel of the bicycle, or at least the rear pinion, on a rolling surface, for example on one or more rollers.

A need felt in the known art is to make the running condition for the user more and more useful for his training, his pleasure and his preparation for driving on the road, simulating and reproducing in an ever more realistic and faithful way, as well as programmable at will, the riding conditions that occur when the bicycle is traveling on the road.

An object of the present invention is to satisfy these requirements of the prior art, within the context of a simple, rational and low-cost solution.

In particular, an object of the present invention is to make available a driving simulator for a bicycle which is capable of simulating the road running conditions of the bicycle with a high degree of likelihood, which allows the user a high degree of comfort of use and, therefore, allows use for prolonged times, developing at the same time, all the proprioceptive and balance skills necessary for the use of the bicycle.

At the same time, a further object of the present invention is to make available a driving simulator for a bicycle that can also be used by a professional cyclist, which meets the user's high performance requirements and high safety, without the need to use expensive control or safety devices.

These purposes are achieved by the characteristics of the invention reported in the independent claim. The dependent claims outline preferred and / or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention.

EXHIBITION OF THE INVENTION

The invention, in particular, makes available a simulator for a bicycle which includes:

- a ground support frame;

- a rear drive unit associated with the frame and equipped with:

a first support surface that can be rotated along a closed path around at least a first axis of horizontal rotation and adapted to support a rear wheel of a bicycle in a rotatable manner around an axis of revolution parallel to the first axis of rotation, and a unit braking device operatively connected to an electronic control unit configured to control the rotation of the first bearing surface;

- a front drive unit associated with the frame and suitable for supporting a front wheel of the bicycle in order to drive it in rotation; And

- a locking assembly associated with the frame and fixable in a resolvable way to the bicycle, in which the locking assembly is configured to lock the axis of revolution of the rear wheel of the bicycle resting on the first support surface with respect to a first degree of freedom translational along a first horizontal sliding direction orthogonal to the first rotation axis.

Thanks to this solution, it is possible to achieve the aforementioned purposes with a practical device to use, which allows the simulation of the road conditions close to reality and, at the same time, the possibility of pedaling for a prolonged period with variations in routes and conditions. training dynamics.

An aspect of the invention is, moreover, that the block assembly can comprise an inextensible connection body having an elongated shape along a longitudinal axis, in which a first end of the connection body is constrained to the frame and an opposite second end of the body. connection is suitable for being attached to the bicycle.

Advantageously, the first end of the connecting body can be constrained to the frame in a sliding manner with respect to a second translational degree of freedom along a second horizontal sliding direction parallel to the first axis of rotation.

Thanks to this solution, the bicycle can move in a transverse direction with respect to the direction of advancement of the same in a free way, as happens in dynamic conditions on the road.

Furthermore, the first end of the connecting body can be connected to the frame in a rotational way with respect to a rotational degree of freedom around an axis of oscillation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connecting body.

Thanks to this solution, it is possible to tilt the bicycle with respect to a longitudinal vertical plane, for example during pedaling, allowing realistic positions for the cyclist who must keep the bicycle in balance on the simulator. A further aspect of the invention provides that the block assembly can comprise a sliding guide, defining a rectilinear sliding trajectory, horizontal and parallel to the first axis of rotation, fixed to the frame and a carriage slidingly coupled to the sliding guide, the first end of the connecting body being connected to the trolley by means of an inextensible tie rod, between the trolley and the tie rod being provided adjustment members configured to adjust a distance between the connecting body and the trolley (according to the size of the bicycle).

Advantageously, the blocking unit can be switchable between a partially free configuration, in which the first end of the connecting body is constrained to the frame in a sliding manner with respect to a second translational degree of freedom along a second horizontal sliding direction parallel to the first axis. of rotation and / or the first end of the elongated connecting body is rotatably constrained to the frame with respect to a rotational degree of freedom about an axis of oscillation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connecting body and a locked configuration, in which the first end of the connecting body is rigidly bound to the frame, the blocking unit, in its locked configuration, being configured to further block the axis of revolution of the rear wheel of the bicycle resting on the first support surface with respect to the second degree of translational freedom and first degree of rotational freedom ale aforesaid.

Thanks to this solution, the same simulator can be used by highly experienced cyclists (in the partially free configuration), or by less experienced cyclists (in the locked configuration), such as a common exercise bike.

Advantageously, the connecting body can be shaped like a fork, in which the second end is bifurcated and is adapted to be connected to the bicycle at the axis of revolution of the rear wheel.

According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the rear drive assembly can comprise a rear roller rotatably connected to the frame about the first axis of rotation, in which the rear roller comprises a cylindrical outer jacket coaxial to the first axis of rotation which defines the first surface support; the braking unit comprises a first electric motor comprising a stator fixed to the frame and a rotor connected to the rear roller for controlling its rotation.

Thanks to this solution, the rotation of the rear wheel of the bicycle and the braking effect on it are made optimal.

Furthermore, the front drive unit can be provided with a second bearing surface which can be rotated along a closed path around at least a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation.

Thanks to this solution, the front wheel of the bicycle can also be easily rotated.

Advantageously, a center distance between the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis can be adjustable.

Thanks to this solution, the simulator can be easily adapted to the dimensions (wheelbase) of the bicycle.

Furthermore, the front drive assembly can comprise a front roller rotatably connected to the frame about the second axis of rotation, in which the front roller comprises a respective cylindrical outer jacket coaxial to the second axis of rotation which defines the second bearing surface.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the rear actuation assembly can be independent with respect to the front actuation assembly.

In this way the front wheel can be rotated at a minimum speed (not to excessively wear the rubber of the same) regardless of the rotation speed of the rear wheel.

Advantageously, the front drive unit comprises a second electric motor operatively connected to the electronic control unit, in which the electronic control unit is configured to rotate the second bearing surface about the second axis of rotation in response to a set rotation. of the first bearing surface around the first axis of rotation.

An aspect of the invention also provides that the simulator may include a platform that can be walked on by a user of the bicycle interposed between the rear drive unit and the front drive unit.

Thanks to this solution, the descent and ascent from the bicycle by the user are facilitated and can always be exercised in safe conditions.

In one embodiment, the simulator can comprise an optical system for controlling the movement of pedals of the bicycle operatively connected to the electronic control unit, the electronic control unit being configured to interrupt the rotation of the first support surface (and / or of the second support surface) after a predetermined time of inactivity of the bicycle pedals detected by the optical system.

In this way, when the user is in conditions of non-use of the bicycle, the simulator can stop its function with considerable energy savings and safety for the user, who can get off the bicycle or get on it with the rear drive unit ( and / or front drive assembly) stationary.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages of the invention will become evident from reading the following description provided by way of non-limiting example, with the aid of the figures illustrated in the attached tables.

Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a first embodiment of a bicycle simulator according to the invention, with a bicycle in an operative position according to a partially free configuration.

Figure 2 is an axonometric view of a detail of Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an exploded view of Figure 2.

Figure 4 is a view of the simulator of Figure 1, with a bicycle in a further operative according to a locked configuration.

Figure 5 is a view of a detail of Figure 4.

Figure 6 is an axonometric view of a second embodiment of a bicycle simulator according to the invention, with a bicycle in an operative position according to a partially free configuration.

Figure 7 is a view of the simulator of Figure 6, with a bicycle in a further operative according to a locked configuration.

Figure 8 is a partial exploded view of Figure 6.

Figure 9 is an axonometric view of a third embodiment of a bicycle simulator according to the invention, with a bicycle in an operative position according to a partially free configuration.

Figure 10 is a partial exploded view of Figure 9.

BEST WAY TO IMPLEMENT THE INVENTION

With particular reference to these figures, the numeral 10 globally indicates a simulator for a bicycle globally indicated by the numeral 20, which is any bicycle suitable for traveling on any type of path.

The bicycle 20 generally comprises a main frame 21 (or front triangle), for example substantially rigid.

The main frame 21 comprises, for example, an upper beam, a lower beam and a saddle post.

At the intersection of the upper beam with the lower beam, a steering head is defined, which is placed in front of a forward direction of the bicycle 20 and is adapted to support a front swingarm to which a front wheel 22 is rotatably coupled.

At the upper end of the front swingarm a handlebar is rigidly connected to actuate the steering of the front wheel 22 around a substantially vertical steering axis.

A bottom bracket seat is defined near the intersection between the lower beam and the saddle post, as known to the skilled in the art which rotates the bottom bracket itself operated by a pair of cranks equipped with pedals 23 .

The main frame 21 further comprises a rear frame 24 which is arranged on the opposite side of the main frame 20 with respect to the steering head.

The rear stay 24 is adapted to support a rear wheel 25 rotatably connected to the rear wheel with respect to a substantially horizontal axis of revolution A.

The rear stay 24 is globally shaped like a fork that embraces the rear wheel 25 from opposite sides, in particular the rear stay 24 comprises:

- a pair of chain bars (chain stays), arranged on opposite sides with respect to the rear wheel 25, at the rear end of which a seat is formed for the revolution pin of the rear wheel 25 and whose front end faces (and extends) towards the seat of the bottom bracket; and - two seat stays, arranged on opposite sides to the rear wheel 25, where the rear end of each seat bar is connected to the rear end of a respective chain bar and the front end of each seat bar is facing ( and leans) towards the saddle post.

The simulator 10 comprises a frame 30, for example substantially box-like, suitable for resting on the ground.

The frame 30 is substantially rigid and is equipped with common supports on the ground, for example the frame 30 is elongated along a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle 20, i.e. horizontal and orthogonal to the axis of revolution A of the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20, and has a rear area, intended to be placed vertically below the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20, and a front area intended to be positioned vertically below the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20.

The simulator 10 comprises a rear actuation assembly 40 which is associated with the frame 30, for example with the rear region thereof.

The rear drive unit 40 comprises a first support surface that can be rotated along a closed path around at least a first axis of rotation B horizontal and parallel to the axis of revolution A of the rear wheel 25.

The first bearing surface is suitable for supporting the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20 in a rotatable manner.

In practice, the first bearing surface is configured so that the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20 can roll, preferably without sliding, on the first bearing surface itself.

The rear actuation unit 40 then comprises a braking unit 41 configured to oppose a (variable) resistance to the rolling of the first support surface, or to the rotation of the rear wheel 25 imparted by the user on the pedals 23 of the bicycle 20, as best will be explained below.

The braking unit 41 comprises (or consists of) for example a first electric motor equipped with a stator fixed to the frame 30 and a rotor connected, directly or by means of motion transmission members (such as belts and pulleys, chains and toothed wheels, gears or similar), to the first support surface for controlling its rotation with respect to the first rotation axis B.

In the example, the braking unit 41 is arranged in a compartment of the frame 30 inaccessible from the outside of the same.

The simulator 10 further comprises a front actuation assembly 50 which is associated with the frame 30, for example with the front area of the same.

The front actuation assembly 50 comprises a second bearing surface which can be rotated along a closed path around at least a second axis of rotation C horizontal and parallel to the first axis of rotation B of the first bearing surface of the rear actuation assembly 40.

The second supporting surface is suitable for supporting the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20 in a rotatable way, to drive it in rotation (by dragging it) around its own axis of revolution.

The front drive unit 50 is configured to rotate the second support surface around the second axis of rotation C, to rotate (without sliding, for example by friction) the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20 resting on it. .

The front drive unit 50 comprises (or consists of) for example a second electric motor 52 equipped with a stator fixed to the frame 30 and a rotor connected, directly or by means of motion transmission members (such as belts and pulleys, chains and wheels cogs, gears or the like), to the second support surface for driving it in rotation with respect to the second axis of rotation C.

In the example, the front drive unit 50 is arranged in a further compartment of the frame 30 inaccessible from the outside of the same.

In a first embodiment, shown in Figures 1-5, the rear drive assembly 40 comprises a rear roller 42 rotatably connected to the frame 30 about the first axis of rotation B.

The rear roller 42 comprises a cylindrical outer jacket 420, for example fully developed, coaxial to the first axis of rotation B which defines the first bearing surface.

The cylindrical jacket 420 has an axial length between 30 cm and 100 cm, for example equal to 80 cm.

The cylindrical jacket 420 protrudes, for its entire length, above a cover plate of the frame 30 in correspondence with a special (rectangular) slot made in this cover plate.

The first electric motor 41, or its rotor, is connected to the rear roller 42 to control its rotation.

The cylindrical jacket 420 of the rear roller 42 can be made of a rigid material, such as a metal or a plastic, or a yielding material, such as rubber.

In this first embodiment, the front drive assembly 50 comprises a front roller 52 rotatably connected to the frame 30 around the second axis of rotation C (parallel and eccentric with respect to the first axis of rotation B, i.e. placed in front of it with respect to the direction of "running" of the bicycle 20).

The front roller 52 comprises a cylindrical outer jacket 520, for example fully developed, coaxial to the second axis of rotation C which defines the second supporting surface.

The cylindrical jacket 520 of the front roller 52 has an axial length preferably equal to the axial length of the cylindrical jacket 420 of the rear roller 42.

The cylindrical jacket 520 protrudes, for its entire length, above a further cover plate of the frame 30 in correspondence with a special (rectangular) slot made in this cover plate.

The second electric motor 52, or the rotor of the same, is connected to the front roller 52 for the rotation drive of the same.

The cylindrical jacket 520 of the front roller 52 can be made of a rigid material, such as for example a metal or a plastic, or a yielding material, for example of rubber.

Advantageously, the center distance (along the longitudinal axis of the frame 30) between the first axis of rotation B of the rear roller 42 and the second axis of rotation C of the front roller 52 is adjustable, for example as a function of the length of the bicycle 20 from to support, i.e. as a function of the distance between the front wheel 22 and the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle itself.

For example, the rear roller 42 is supported by a frame portion 30 detachable from the frame portion 30 which supports the front roller 52 and can be fixed to it by means of adjustable fastening systems, for example threaded.

In a second embodiment, shown in Figures 6-8, the rear drive assembly 40 is completely identical to the rear drive assembly 40 described above for the first embodiment shown in Figures 1-5, and in particular it comprises a rear roller 42 rotatably connected to frame 30 around the first axis of rotation B.

The rear roller 42 comprises a cylindrical outer jacket 420, for example fully developed, coaxial to the first axis of rotation B which defines the first bearing surface.

The cylindrical jacket 420 has an axial length between 30 cm and 100 cm, for example equal to 80 cm.

The cylindrical jacket 420 protrudes, for its entire length, above a cover plate of the frame 30 in correspondence with a special (rectangular) slot made in this cover plate.

The first electric motor 41, or its rotor, is connected to the rear roller 42 to control its rotation.

The cylindrical jacket 420 of the rear roller 42 can be made of a rigid material, such as a metal or a plastic, or a yielding material, such as rubber.

In this first embodiment, the rear drive unit 40 and the front drive unit 50 are driven in rotation independently of each other, i.e. the rear roller 42 is controlled / driven by the electric motor of the braking unit 41 and the front roller 52 it is driven by the electric motor 51.

However, it is not excluded that the rear roller 42 of the rear actuation assembly 40 may rotate the front roller 52 of the front actuation assembly 50, for example by means of motion transmission members such as chains or belts or the like.

In this second embodiment, the front drive unit 50 is defined by a treadmill, for example of a commercial type.

For example, the front drive unit 50 comprises a respective frame 55 resting on the ground suitable for supporting a belt 56 wound on itself in a ring around at least two rollers, of which a motorized roller (front) and a driven roller (rear) ) each equipped with a respective second axis of rotation C parallel to each other and parallel to the first axis of rotation B of the rear drive unit 40.

The motorized roller is connected to a respective electric motor, which is configured to rotate (on itself) the belt 56 (by rotating the motorized roller).

The belt 56 defines the second resting surface of the front drive unit 50, in particular, the belt 56 has an active (upper) substantially planar (horizontal) branch axially interposed between the motorized roller and the driven roller, which essentially defines this support surface of the front actuation assembly 50.

The belt 56 has a width (dimension parallel to the second axes of rotation C of the motorized roller and of the driven roller) substantially equal to the axial length of the cylindrical jacket 420 of the rear roller 42.

The belt 56 can be made of a yieldable material, such as rubber.

Advantageously, the center distance (along the longitudinal axis of the frame 30) between the first axis of rotation B of the rear roller 42 and one or both of the second axis of rotation C of the motorized roller and of the driven roller of the front drive unit 50 is adjustable, for example as a function of the length of the bicycle 20 to be supported, or as a function of the distance between the front wheel 22 and the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle itself.

Preferably, the belt 56 is configured so that the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20 can rest on a substantially intermediate region of the (active branch of) the belt 56, axially interposed between the driven roller and the motorized roller.

Advantageously, the front actuation assembly 50 of this second embodiment of the simulator 10 could provide a support roller, substantially equal (in dimensions and functions) to the front roller 52 of the front actuation assembly 50 of the first embodiment of the simulator. 10, which is supported rotatably (in an idle way) by the frame 55 with an axis of rotation parallel to the second axis of rotation C of the motorized roller and of the driven roller. The support roller can be arranged below the (active branch of the) belt 56, in correspondence with the (theoretical) support line between the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20 and the belt 56, so that the top of the front roller 52 defines a rigid support for the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20 with the interposition of the tape 56.

Thanks to this solution it is possible to reduce the heating effect due to friction of the front wheel 22 during the use of the simulator 10.

For example, the frame 30 which supports the rear roller 42 is fixed in a detachable way to the frame 55 which supports the belt 56, for example by means of threaded members or simply approached and aligned along the longitudinal axis of the same. In this second embodiment, the rear actuation assembly 40 and the front actuation assembly 50 are driven in rotation independently of each other.

In a third embodiment, shown in Figures 9 and 10, the front drive assembly 50 and the rear drive assembly 40 are defined integral by a single treadmill.

In particular, the front drive unit 50 and the rear drive unit 40 are connected to a single frame 55 resting on the ground able to support a belt 56 wound on itself in a ring around at least two rollers, of which a rear roller 42, defining the rear actuation assembly, and a front roller 52, defining the front actuation assembly 50.

The rear roller 42 is rotatably associated with the frame 55, for example with a rear region thereof intended to be engaged by the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20, with respect to a first axis of rotation B horizontal and parallel to the axis of revolution A of the wheel rear 25.

The front roller 52 is rotatably associated with the frame 55, for example with a front area thereof intended to be engaged by the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20, with respect to a second axis of rotation C horizontal and parallel to the first axis of rotation B of the roller. rear 42.

The belt 56 defines the first and second resting surfaces of the rear actuation assembly 40 and of the front actuation assembly 50, in particular, the belt 56 has a substantially planar (horizontal) active (upper) branch axially interposed between the rear roller 42 and the front roller 52, which essentially defines this resting surface of the front drive unit 50 and of the rear drive unit 40.

The belt 56 has a width (dimension parallel to the second axes of rotation C of the motorized roller and of the driven roller) substantially comprised between 30 cm and 100 cm, for example equal to 80 cm.

The belt 56 can be made of a yieldable material, such as rubber.

Advantageously, the center distance (along the longitudinal axis of the frame 30) between the first axis of rotation B of the rear roller 42 and the second axis of rotation C of the front roller 52 is adjustable, for example as a function of the length of the bicycle 20 from to support, i.e. as a function of the distance between the front wheel 22 and the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle itself.

The front roller 52, for example, is rotatably supported (idly) by the frame 55, for example rotated by the belt 56, and can be arranged below the (active branch of the) belt 56, in correspondence with a line support (theoretical) between the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20 and the belt 56, so that the top of the front roller 52 defines a rigid support for the front wheel 22 of the bicycle 20 with the interposition of the belt 56.

Thanks to this solution it is possible to reduce the heating effect due to rubbing of the front wheel 22 during the use of the simulator 10.

The first electric motor of the braking unit 41, or its rotor, is connected to the rear roller 42 for controlling its rotation and, therefore, to the belt 56 which defines the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface.

In all the embodiments described above, the simulator 10 also comprises a suitably preconfigured and / or configurable electronic control unit 60, which for example includes at least one of a microcontroller, a microprocessor, an FPGA and an ASIC appropriately configured. Furthermore, the electronic control unit 60 can comprise a volatile and / or non-volatile memory element, and one or more of a power circuitry, a data exchange circuitry and an ancillary circuitry.

The electronic control unit 60 is operatively connected to the rear drive unit 40 (in a wired way or, alternatively, by radio frequency), or to the braking unit 41 of the same, to control its implementation, as described below.

In particular, the electronic control unit 60 is configured to vary a rolling braking resistor of the rear roller 42 on the basis of a simulated positive (uphill) slope predefined and, for example, pre-stored in the memory element or in it can be memorized or variable at will in real-time, for example at higher slope values the electronic control unit 60 varies the rolling braking resistor of the rear roller 42 towards higher braking resistor values (for example proportionally).

In practice, in order to offer a braking resistor, the first electric motor of the braking unit 41 is operated in a direction of rotation such as to push the rear roller 42 in a direction of rotation opposite to that imparted to the rear roller 42 by the pedaling action through the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20 and with a module proportional to the positive slope to be simulated. The rolling of the rear roller 42 in the direction imparted by the first electric motor of the braking unit 41 is overcome by the force exerted by the user of the bicycle 20 on the pedals.

Furthermore, the electronic control unit 60 can be configured to (actively) operate the rear roller 42 in rotation, on the basis of a simulated negative (downward) slope predefined and, for example, pre-stored in the memory element or in it can be memorized or variable at will in real-time, for example at ever lower slope values the electronic control unit 60 varies the rolling speed of the rear roller 42 towards higher rolling speed values.

In practice, in order to allow the rear roller 42 to operate (actively) in rotation, the first electric motor of the braking unit 41 is operated in a direction of rotation (opposite to that which performs the braking) such as to push the rear roller 42 in a direction of rotation. rotation in accordance with that imparted to the rear roller 42 by the pedaling action through the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20 and with a modulus proportional to the negative slope to be simulated. The rolling of the rear roller 42 in the direction imparted by the first electric motor of the braking unit 41 can be increased by the force exerted by the user of the bicycle 20 on the pedals (to simulate a downhill pedal stroke).

The simulator 10 also comprises an optical system 65, which for example comprises a pair of photocells or a video camera or other, which is fixed to the frame 30 (as will be better described below) or to the main frame 21 of the bicycle 20 and is configured to generate an optical beam which is crossed by at least one pedal 23 of the bicycle 20. The optical system 65, in practice, is operatively connected to the electronic control unit 60, which is configured to control, through the optical system 65, the movement of the pedals 23 of the bicycle 20 and to interrupt the rotation of the first support surface, or of the rear roller 42, when this is imparted by the first electric motor of the braking unit 41, after a predetermined time, which can be pre-set and memorized in the element of memory, of inactivity of the pedals 23 of the bicycle 20 detected by the optical system 65.

The electronic control unit 60 (i.e. the same electronic control unit 60 above or a further dedicated electronic unit) can be operatively connected (also) to the front drive unit 50, or to the second electric motor 52 (where provided) of the same, to check its implementation, as described below.

In particular, the electronic control unit 60 is configured to rotate the second support surface (be it the belt 56 or the front roller 52) around the second axis of rotation C, in a direction of rotation concordant with that imparted to the rear roller 42 from the pedaling action through the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20 (and with any non-zero modulus that can be set whatever, that is, which can be dependent on the rotation speed of the rear roller 42 or completely independent of it) in response to a set rotation of the first support surface, that is to the rear roller 42, around the first axis of rotation B, or if it is imposed by the pedaling of the cyclist or by the first electric motor of the braking unit 41.

The electronic control unit 60 can be provided in a computer 61 equipped with a display 62, which is placed in front of the frame 30, or in front of the bicycle 20 placed on the simulator 10 so that it can be viewed by the cyclist during use.

On display 62, information about the route to be simulated (negative or positive slopes) can be made available on a graph and / or images of the simulated route, for example the dynamic image of a simulated (outdoor) route gradually followed during the simulated pedaling. of the cyclist.

In front of the bicycle 20, the simulator 10 also provides for the possibility of using a fan 63, which can be independent or operated by the same electronic control unit 60, for example so that the speed of the air directed towards the cyclist varies according to the rear roller rotation speed 42.

The display 62 and / or the fan 63 are fixed to a support frame, which can be fixed to the frame 30 or simply approached to it, in an adjustable position.

The simulator 10 also comprises a platform 70 that can be walked on by a user of the bicycle 20, which defines a support plane (horizontal) for the cyclist, for example for the steps of descending and climbing from the bicycle 20 or parking on the same.

The platform 70 is interposed between the rear actuation assembly 40 and the front actuation assembly 50, in particular this platform 70 is placed at the level of the cover plate of the rear actuation assembly 40 (and / or of the further cover plate of the assembly of front actuation 50) extending the same, substantially without interruption, in the longitudinal direction of the frame 30.

The platform 70 is intended to be placed below the pedal area 23 of the bicycle 20 and has a width at least equal (in the major example) to the axial length of the cylindrical jacket 420 of the rear roller 42.

Furthermore, the platform 70 can be fixed to the frame 30, for example by means of bolting.

In the second embodiment described above (and possibly in the third embodiment), the platform 70 can be at least partially superimposed on the belt 56 of the front drive assembly 50.

Support handles 71 can rise from the platform 70, for example equipped with controls 72 operatively connected to the electronic control unit 60 for manual control thereof.

The simulator 10 also comprises a blocking assembly 80, which is associated, for example fixed (in a removable or removable way), to the frame 30 in a rear area thereof, or rear to the bicycle 20 placed on the simulator 10. The blocking unit 80 can be fixed in a resolvable way to bicycle 20, or to the main frame 21 of the same and is configured to block the axis of revolution A of the rear wheel 25 of bicycle 20 resting on the first support surface of the rear drive unit 40 with respect to a first translational degree of freedom along a first horizontal sliding direction S1 orthogonal to the first axis of rotation B of the rear roller 42.

In this case, the block assembly 80 comprises a connecting body 81, for example rigid and inextensible, which has an elongated shape, shaped like a fork, along a longitudinal axis L which lies substantially on a vertical median plane of the bicycle 20 ( or a vertical plane orthogonal to the first axis of rotation B of the rear roller 42).

A first end 810 (rear) of the connection body 81 is fixed to the frame 30, as will be better described below, and an opposite second end 811 of the connection body 81, is for example bifurcated and is able to be fastened to the bicycle 20 , for example by means of a vice 812 (screw) able to tighten in correspondence (coaxial) with the axis of revolution A of the rear wheel 25 (i.e. on the opposite axial ends of a support pin of the rear wheel 25 coaxial to the axis of revolution A and fixed to the main frame 21).

The block assembly 80 comprises a sliding guide 82, defining a rectilinear sliding trajectory, horizontal and parallel to the first axis of rotation A, which is fixed to the frame 30, for example in its rear area (rear also to the first axis of rotation rotation A).

In the example, the sliding guide 82 is defined by a pin, for example cylindrical, supported at the opposite ends by two brackets fixed, for example in a removable way, to the frame 30 and salient from the rear end of the same.

The sliding guide 82, that is the pin, has an axial length substantially equal to the axial length of the cylindrical jacket 420 of the rear roller 42.

The blocking unit 80 then comprises a carriage 83 slidingly coupled to the sliding guide 82, for example equipped with an axial (cylindrical) cavity fitted to size on the pin, for example by interposing friction reduction members, such as bearings.

The carriage 83 is axially sliding along the entire length of the sliding guide 82, alternately between two axial end-of-stroke positions.

The first end 810 of the connecting body 81 is connected, in a resolvable way, to the carriage 83 by means of an inextensible tie rod 84, for example defined by a cylindrical (metal) bar.

The tie rod 84 has a rear end fixed to the carriage, for example rigidly, and a front end which can be releasably fixed to the first end 810 of the connecting body 81; in particular, the first end 810 of the connection body 81 comprises a housing seat (cylindrical) in which the front end of the tie rod 84 can be inserted so as to be constrained therein, for example by means of snap-hooking members.

Between the trolley 83 and the tie rod 84 or between the tie rod 84 and the connecting body 81 there are adjustment members configured to adjust a distance between the connecting body 81 and the trolley 83, according to the dimensions of the bicycle 20 or to the length. of the same.

For example, it is possible for the tie rod 84 to have a plurality of grooves spaced along its longitudinal axis such as to be selectively engaged by said snap coupling members, so that the distance between the connecting body 81 and the carriage 83 can be adjustable.

In practice, when the connecting body 81 is associated with the carriage 83, the connecting body 81 itself (i.e. its first end 810) is constrained to the frame 30 in a sliding manner with respect to a second translational degree of freedom along a second direction of sliding S2 horizontal and parallel to the first axis of rotation B of the rear roller 42.

That is, the connecting body 81 (and the bicycle 20 associated with it) is free to slide along this second sliding direction S2 along the sliding guide 82 (always maintaining the same axial distance along the first sliding direction S1, i.e. without possibility to move forward or backward along the first sliding direction S1).

Furthermore, the first end 810 of the connection body 81 is constrained to the frame, or to the carriage 83, in a rotational way with respect to a rotational degree of freedom around an axis of oscillation parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the connection body 81 itself.

In particular, it is possible to provide that the connecting body 81 (and therefore the bicycle 20 associated with it) can perform oscillations with respect to a longitudinal axis of the same, such as to allow inclinations of the median plane of the bicycle 20 with respect to the vertical plane.

According to an aspect of the invention, for example according to the first and second embodiments illustrated above, the block assembly 80 is switchable between a partially free configuration (shown in Figures 1-3, 6 and 8), in which the first end 810 of the connecting body 81 is constrained to the frame, as described above, i.e. in a sliding and rotatable way by means of the carriage 83 and the sliding guide 82, and a locked configuration (shown in Figures 4-5, 7, in which the first end 810 of the connecting body 81 is rigidly bound to the frame 30, in practice further locking the axis of revolution A of the rear wheel 25 of the bicycle 20 resting on the first resting surface of the rear drive unit 40 with respect to the second degree of translational freedom and to the aforementioned first degree of rotational freedom, i.e. preventing translations of the connecting body 81 (and therefore of the bicycle 20 connected to it) along the sec wave flow direction S2 and / or oscillations around the longitudinal axis L.

In the locking configuration, the first end 810 of the connecting body 81 can be detached from the tie rod 84 and locked onto the cover plate of the rear drive assembly 40, for example by means of a latch 85 or other locking mechanism, or alternatively it can be in any case fixed to the carriage 83, which can be axially locked in an axial (central) position of the sliding guide 82, for example by means of a locking assembly, preferably with friction.

In the light of what has been described above, the operation of the simulator 10 is as follows.

With the front drive unit 50 and the rear drive unit 40 stationary it is possible to load the bicycle 20 onto the simulator 10, so that the rear wheel 25 actually rests on the rear roller 42 and the front wheel 23 rests on the second bearing surface of the front drive unit 50.

In this position, the connection body 81, previously fixed to the carriage 83 by means of the tie rod 84 (or to the frame by means of the bolt 85), is constrained to the rear frame 24 of the bicycle 20, in correspondence with the axis of revolution A of the rear wheel 25 .

The cyclist can then get into the saddle of the bicycle 20, for example by resting stably on the platform 70.

Once the path to be simulated has been set on the computer 61, the electronic control unit 60 is configured to transmit, by means of the display 62, the images and information relating to the path to be simulated and, at the same time, actuate the rear actuation unit 40 and the front drive 50, so that to a pedal stroke of the cyclist on the bicycle 20 there corresponds a determined rolling resistance (or a rotating drive) offered by the rear roller 42 to the rear wheel 25, depending on the slope of the simulated path, and a simultaneous drive in rotation of the second support surface of the front actuation unit 50 which allows the cyclist to keep the bicycle 20 in balance (due to the gyroscopic effect).

In the event that the blocking unit 80 is switched into its blocking configuration, then it is possible that the electronic control unit 60 is configured to inhibit the second resting surface of the front actuation unit 50, as it is not necessary.

The invention thus conceived is susceptible of numerous modifications and variations, all of which are within the scope of the inventive concept.

Furthermore, all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements. In practice, the materials used, as well as the contingent shapes and dimensions, may be any according to requirements without thereby departing from the scope of the protection of the following claims.

Claims (15)

CLAIMS 1. A simulator (10) for a bicycle (20) which includes: - a ground support frame (30); - a rear drive unit (40) associated with the frame (30) and equipped with: a first support surface (420,56) rotatable along a closed path around at least a first horizontal axis of rotation (B) and suitable for supporting a rear wheel (25) of a bicycle (20) in a rotatable manner around a an axis of revolution (A) parallel to the first axis of rotation (B), e a braking unit (41) operatively connected to an electronic control unit (60) configured to control the rotation of the first bearing surface (420,56); - a front drive unit (50) associated with the frame (30) and suitable for supporting a front wheel (22) of the bicycle (20) in order to drive it in rotation; And - a locking assembly (80) associated with the frame (30) and fixable in a resolvable way to the bicycle (20), in which the locking assembly (80) is configured to lock the axis of revolution (A) of the rear wheel ( 25) of the bicycle (20) resting on the first support surface (420,56) with respect to a first translational degree of freedom along a first horizontal sliding direction (S1) orthogonal to the first rotation axis (B). The simulator (10) according to claim 1, wherein the block assembly (80) comprises an inextensible connecting body (81) having an elongated shape along a longitudinal axis (L), wherein a first end (810) of the connection body (81) is fixed to the frame (30) and an opposite second end (811) of the connection body (81) is adapted to be fastened to the bicycle (20). The simulator (10) according to claim 2, wherein the first end (810) of the connecting body (81) is constrained to the frame (30) in a sliding manner with respect to a second translational degree of freedom along a second direction of horizontal sliding (S2) parallel to the first rotation axis (B). The simulator (10) according to claim 3, wherein the first end (810) of the connecting body (81) is constrained to the frame (30) in a rotational manner with respect to a rotational degree of freedom about an axis of oscillation parallel to the longitudinal axis (L) of the connecting body (81). The simulator (10) according to claim 2, wherein the block assembly (80) comprises a sliding guide (82), defining a straight, horizontal sliding path parallel to the first axis of rotation (B) and fixed to the frame (30), and a carriage (83) slidingly coupled to the sliding guide (82), the first end (810) of the connecting body (81) being connected to the carriage (83) by means of an inextensible tie rod (84), and between the carriage (83) and the tie rod (84), adjusting members (85) configured to adjust a distance between the connecting body (81) and the carriage (83) being provided. The simulator (10) according to claim 2, in which the block assembly (80) is switchable between a partially free configuration, in which the first end (810) of the connecting body (81) is constrained to the frame (30 ) in a sliding manner with respect to a second translational degree of freedom along a second horizontal sliding direction (S2) parallel to the first axis of rotation (B) and / or the first end (810) of the connecting body (81) is constrained to the frame (30) rotationally with respect to a rotational degree of freedom about an axis of oscillation parallel to the longitudinal axis (L) of the connecting body (81) and a locked configuration, in which the first end (810) of the body connection (81) is rigidly bound to the frame (30), the locking assembly (80), in its locked configuration, being configured to further lock the axis of revolution (A) of the rear wheel (25) of the bicycle (20) resting on the first bearing surface (420.56) with respect to the second translational degree of freedom and the aforementioned first rotational degree of freedom. The simulator (10) according to claim 2, in which the connecting body (81) is fork-shaped, in which the second end (811) is bifurcated and is adapted to be connected to the bicycle (20) at the 'axis of revolution (A) of the rear wheel (25). The simulator (10) according to claim 1, wherein the rear drive assembly (40) comprises a rear roller (42) rotatably connected to the frame (30) about the first axis of rotation (B), wherein the roller rear (42) comprises an outer cylindrical jacket (420) coaxial to the first axis of rotation (B) which defines the first bearing surface; the braking unit (41) comprises a first electric motor comprising a stator fixed to the frame (30) and a rotor connected to the rear roller (42) for controlling its rotation. The simulator (10) according to claim 1, wherein the front drive assembly (50) is provided with a second bearing surface (520,56) rotatable along a closed path about at least a second axis of rotation (C ) parallel to the first rotation axis (B). The simulator (10) according to claim 9, wherein a distance between the first axis of rotation (B) and the second axis of rotation (C) is adjustable. The simulator (10) according to claim 9, wherein the front drive assembly (50) comprises a front roller (52) rotatably connected to the frame (30) about the second axis of rotation, wherein the front roller (52 ) comprises a respective cylindrical outer jacket (520) coaxial to the second rotation axis (C) which defines the second bearing surface. The simulator (10) according to claim 1, wherein the rear drive assembly (40) is independent of the front drive assembly (50). The simulator (10) according to claim 9, wherein the front drive assembly (50) comprises a second electric motor (51) operatively connected to the electronic control unit (60), wherein the electronic control unit (60 ) is configured to rotate the second bearing surface (520,56) around the second axis of rotation (C) in response to an imposed rotation of the first bearing surface around the first axis of rotation (B). The simulator (10) according to claim 1, which comprises a platform (70) which can be walked on by a user of the bicycle (20) interposed between the rear drive unit (40) and the front drive unit (50). The simulator (10) according to claim 1, which comprises an optical system (65) for controlling the movement of pedals (23) of the bicycle (20) operatively connected to the electronic control unit (60), the electronic control unit (60) being configured to stop the rotation of the first resting surface (420, 56) after a predetermined time of inactivity of the pedals (23) of the bicycle (20) detected by the optical system (65).