TW201601684A - Method and system for optimized selection of a bicycle saddle pertaining to a population of different saddles - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for optimized selection of a bicycle saddle from a population of different bicycle saddles comprises the steps of providing a database (B) composed of a set ([Omega]) of physical elements (Si) corresponding to the population of different saddles, subdividing the set ([Omega]) into a plurality of subsets (W1, W2; F1, F2; Q1, Q2;...) according to predetermined geometrical and/or functional characteristics, collecting a plurality of anatomical parameters (I, [alpha], Lm,...) of a user to obtain corresponding data (D1, D2, D3,...) and selecting one of the subsets (W1, W2; F1, F2; Q1, Q2;...) having corresponding optimized characteristics according to the data (D1, D2, D3,...). The geometrical and/or functional characteristics are selected from the group comprising at least the maximum plan width (Umax), the presence and dimension of holes and/or superficial hollows (H) and the plan shape of the saddles. The parameters (I, [alpha], Lm,...) are collected on the user in an upright position and with the legs stretched. A system for anthropometric determination of one or more optimized bicycle saddles.

Description

Method and system for optimizing the selection of bicycle saddles for one of different saddles

The present invention is generally applicable to the field of human body support devices and, in particular, to a method of optimizing the selection of a bicycle saddle based on human body measurement data.

The invention also relates to a system for performing the above method using suitable apparatus and equipment.

It is known that a wide variety of saddles are available on the market which differ in geometrical, structural and/or functional properties.

Therefore, it is important for the user to be able to select the most appropriate saddle based not only on the preferred riding conditions but also on its own anatomical characteristics and human measurement characteristics, so that the saddle ensures optimal comfort. The achievement of sexuality and required performance.

A method for selecting an optimized saddle based on the anatomical characteristics of a particular user is known, for example, from US 7,284,336.

In this known method, the sciatic distance of each particular user (i.e., the distance between the ischial ridges) is determined to properly select the saddle having the appropriate width in the posterior portion, which also ensures a burly user. The correct support.

In particular, measuring the distance of the sciatic bone by: making the saddle user sit The gel-filled cushion is placed such that its ischial ridges leave a temporary indentation for this measurement.

The saddle width selection also depends on the preferred posture of the user when riding, so that users with the same isch distance but different postures (eg, the torso is generally straight or forward) can be associated with saddles of different widths. .

The prior art methods described above have not been fully satisfactory because they take into account limited anatomical properties and do not allow the selection of saddles with additional properties that are optimized in terms of human measurement in addition to the maximum width.

In addition, the selection of the maximum saddle width based on the user's preferred riding posture has a poor scientific value, and is only an empirical point of view, which does not change the comfort conditions provided by saddles having different widths.

It is a general object of the present invention to address the above technical problems by providing a method for optimizing the selection of a bicycle saddle that is particularly suitable and effective in both human measurement and functionality.

A particular object is to provide a method for optimizing the selection of a bicycle saddle that allows for the selection of a saddle or a set of saddles from a relatively wide range of saddles, the saddle or the saddle having Specific geometric features and/or functional features that are optimized based on a plurality of anatomical parameters of the user.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for optimizing the selection of one or more bicycle saddles that allows each user to be associated with the best available saddle regardless of the user riding The posture taken when riding a bicycle.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an optimum for a bicycle saddle A method of selection that ensures optimal comfort and optimal conditions for each particular user to achieve high performance.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for optimal human measurement selection of a bicycle saddle that ensures maximum accuracy and reliability.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a system for optimal human measurement selection of a bicycle saddle that is preferably quick and easy to use by the user himself without the assistance of any outside personnel.

As explained better below, these and other objectives are achieved by a method for optimizing the body measurement of the bicycle saddle according to the main request.

Thanks to this series of measurements and thanks to the combination of the data and the geometry and/or functional characteristics of the saddle, it is possible to obtain an optimal and accurate determination of the saddle, which can be taken without regard to the user. In the case of posture, all technical characteristics of comfort are ensured.

In another aspect, the invention is directed to a system for optimizing a human body measurement selection for a bicycle saddle as defined in independent item 17.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of several preferred non-exclusive embodiments of a method and system for performing an optimized selection of a bicycle saddle according to the present invention. The embodiments are described as non-limiting examples in which: Figure 1 is a flow diagram of a general implementation of the selection method of the present invention; and Figure 2 is a selection of methods for performing the present invention. A perspective view of a first embodiment of the system; FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the system of FIG. 2; Figure 4 is a front elevational view of the system of Figure 2; Figure 5 is a side elevational view of the system of Figure 2; and Figures 6 through 9 illustrate various steps of the method of using the system illustrated in Figures 2 through 5; A flow diagram showing a particular implementation of the selection method of the present invention; FIG. 11 is a three-dimensional view of a collection of physical elements corresponding to saddles belonging to a given initial population; FIG. 12 is a process that can be used to perform the method A plan view of several saddles of a collection of physical elements; FIG. 13 is a flow chart of a selection method as schematically illustrated in FIG. 10; FIG. 14 is a general view of the system of the present invention; A schematic perspective view of a first step for measuring a first characteristic; FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of a second step for measuring a second characteristic of the method of FIG. 10; FIG. 17 is a method of FIG. A schematic perspective view of a third step for measuring a third characteristic; FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a first detail of the system of FIG. 14 in two different operational positions; FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the detail of FIG. Figure 20 is a perspective view of the second detail of the system of Figure 14; Figure 21 is the detail of Figure 20. Partially exploded perspective view; FIG. 22 shows a sequence of operations side and plan views showing details of system 14 of.

Fig. 1 schematically shows a method for optimizing the selection of a bicycle saddle for a group P of different saddles provided according to specific geometrical characteristics and/or functional characteristics.

As used herein, the word "provide" and its derivatives mean that the saddle is pre- Prepared and made available at the store or other business premises for immediate delivery to the user; or only available in the catalog for delivery on an order basis.

As shown in Figure 12, each saddle in the population P generally has a generally rigid outer casing T having a liner (not shown) associated therewith, and a protective cover defining the seating surface C.

The outer casing T having a cover X defines a longitudinal axis L and has a typical planar shape defining an enlarged rear portion R, the saddle having its maximum width at the rear portion; and a tapered front portion F having a minimum width Or front end. The front portion F is connected to the rear portion R via a central connecting portion M having curved side edges W having outwardly facing depressions and a predetermined radius of curvature r.

Further, one of the groups P or more, at least in a saddle S _i M of the central portion may have a hole H, the aperture cover C to F from the housing extends through all parts of the saddle S _i; shallow hollow or may have The known purpose of the superficial hollow is to reduce the pressure exerted by the saddle on the user's ankle.

With this in mind, the selection method of the present invention comprises a preliminary step a) to provide a database B consisting of a set Ω of physical elements, the general elements of which are generally referred to as S _i , corresponding to the population P Different bicycle saddles.

The method includes a second step b) of subdividing the set Ω into subsets according to predetermined geometric and/or functional characteristics. Conveniently, the subdividing step b) can be subdivided into the first subset W ₁ , W ₂ and the second subset F ₁ , F ₂ by the geometry and/or functional characteristics of the saddle. achieve.

In particular, in order to divide the saddle S _{i of the} database B into subsets W _n , F _n , the geometric features and/or functional features considered are at least the maximum width U _max , the hole of the saddle and/or the superficial The presence of voids, as well as the dimensions of such holes and/or hollows and their planar shape, if any.

The method comprises a third step c) of collecting a plurality of anatomical parameters of the user, in particular, the parameters are at least a first anatomical value I and a second anatomy for determining the respective data D ₁ , D ₂ The value α.

In a simple implementation of the method, the first anatomical value I collected is the distance between the user's intertrochanteric, that is, the distance between the large trochanter of each of the user's femurs.

This measurement has been found to be strictly associated with the overall size of the pelvis, and therefore, as the intertrochanteric distance I increases, a saddle should be provided in which the posterior portion R having the largest width _Umax has a relatively high value.

Thus, this measurement distance I can give a first value D ₁ , so that the first subset W ₁ , W _{2 of the} physical elements will be represented by the saddle S ₁ having an optimized width U _max according to the first value D ₁ .

The second anatomical parameter a collected at step c) will be the angle of inclination of the user's humerus plate, and the second value D _{2 is} associated with this angle.

A unique feature of the present invention is that the anatomical parameters are collected from a user in a standing position in which the legs are straight, meaning that the user does not need to be stressed and that no particular load bearing or support structure is required.

The method further comprises the step d) of selecting a subset of the subsets W ₁ , W ₂ ; F ₁ , F ₂ from the set Ω provided at the beginning.

The selected subset contains a saddle having a first characteristic that is optimized according to the corresponding values D ₁ , D ₂ .

Conveniently, the selecting step d) may comprise: selecting a subset of the first subset W ₁ , W ₂ having a first characteristic optimized according to the first value D ₁ ; and selecting the second subset F ₁ And F ₂ has a subset of the second characteristics that are optimized according to the second value D ₂ .

At the end of steps a) to d), one or more saddles S _i having geometrical and functional characteristics optimized for a particular user can be selected from the initially provided set Ω.

Alternatively, the method can also provide a different set of saddles based on additional requirements such as cost or aesthetics, but the saddles collectively have the above characteristics, which would give the user a wider choice.

Figures 6 to 9 show a first system 1 which is used by the user to autonomously perform step c) of the method for optimizing the saddle as described above. This first system 1 is particularly suitable for selecting saddles for non-competitive sports and/or tourists and/or urban use, such as saddles used in hiking bicycles and/or urban bicycles.

As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the system 1 comprises a structure consisting of a base or platform 2 in which two pairs of footprints or shapes 3, 4 are embossed or applied to define the user's feet. The position during the acquisition of parameter I and parameter α. The vertical plate 5 is fixed to the platform and has a pair of mirrors 6, 7, which are placed at a minimum distance _dmin from each other and have a vertical centerline V.

By the user stands located in front of the mirror 6 and 7 _{at a} predetermined distance d _F on the mirror 6,7 detecting contours of a user's buttocks, the first executable collecting anatomical parameter I step c).

The profile has no reflection on the pair of mirrors 6, 7 corresponding to a first value D ₁ associated with one of the first subsets W ₁ , W ₂ (ie a small dimension of the maximum width U _max of the saddle) .

Conversely, the reflection of the profile on the pair of mirrors 6, 7 corresponds to the first of the first subsets W ₁ , W ₂ (ie the large dimension of the maximum width U _max of the saddle) A value D ₁ .

Experimental tests have shown that when the user is at a distance d _F of about 30 cm in front of the plate and the mirrors 6, 7 are at a minimum distance d _{min of} about 24 cm from each other, the limit of the inter-matrix distance I of the reflection can be produced. The value is about 34 cm.

Accordingly, if the mirror is not reflected 6,7 intertrochanteric contour is _1, W ₂ is associated one of a first value D ₁ corresponding to the first subset W of the small size of the saddle.

If mirror reflection 6,7 intertrochanteric profile, with a first subset of the W _1, W ₂ in the other associated with the first value of D ₁ corresponds to the large size of the saddle.

The system 1 further includes an additional vertical panel 8 that is attached to the platform 2 and placed beside the panel 5. The panel 8 has a horizontal landmark 9, which is placed at a predetermined height h ₁ from the ground.

The step c) of detecting the second anatomical parameter a can be achieved by having the user bend the torso and the arms are extended downwards and the tip of the finger is placed in front of the panel containing the landmark 9.

It fails to reach the user's fingertips horizontally determining landmark 9 (which corresponds to a saddle nonporous and / or superficial hollow H) and the second subset F _1, F ₂ by a second one of the associated value D ₂ .

In contrast, the level of the user's fingertip reaches landmark 9 and the second subset is determined that F _1, F ₂ in the other one (which corresponds to a hole and / or the saddle hollow superficial H) is associated with a second The value D ₂ .

Conveniently, landmark 9 may be placed horizontally to the height h of about 20cm from the ground _1.

Figure 10 schematically illustrates a second method for optimal selection of saddles from a group P of competitive saddles.

In step b) of the second method, the set Ω is segmented into a first subset W ₁ , W ₂ according to geometric properties and/or functional properties; a second subset F ₁ , F ₂ , F ₃ ; and a third sub- Set Q ₁ , Q ₂ .

Step c) may comprise collecting the following parameters: the user of a first anatomical parameter I, which is selected from the group comprising at least intertrochanteric distance for obtaining a first value D _1; the second user anatomical parameter α And selected from the group consisting of the inclination angle α of the humerus plate for obtaining the second value D ₂ ; and the third anatomical parameter L _m of the user selected from the group consisting of the average length of the peripheral range of the thigh Used to obtain the third value D ₃ .

Conveniently, the selecting step d) comprises: selecting a subset of the first subset W ₁ , W ₂ having a first characteristic optimized according to the first value D ₁ ; selecting the second subset F ₁ , F ₂ , F ₃ having a subset of the second characteristics optimized according to the second value D ₂ ; selecting the third subset Q ₁ , Q ₂ having the characteristics optimized according to the third value D ₃ A subcollection.

In addition, in order to divide the saddle S _{i of the} database B into the subsets W _n , F _n , Q _n , the geometrical characteristics and/or functional characteristics considered are: the maximum width U _max , the hole of the saddle S and/or The presence of superficial hollow H, and the dimension a of the holes and/or superficial hollows, and their planar shape, if any.

Anatomical third parameter L _m may range from the average length of the gluteal fold of the detected user's thighs composition, and the third subset Q _n comprising a second selected subset of F _n saddle S _3, the plane The shape is optimized according to the third value D ₃ .

Again, in a standing position or from the torso bends forward (depending on the parameter to be measured) and not in the sitting position of the user to collect all the anatomical parameters I, α, L _m.

Geometric characteristics which may be selected from the third subset of Q _n may be a saddle of the above mentioned and / or features of different aspects of one or more, but not too different from each other, thereby allowing more from A wide range of options is available while still allowing for the selection of human measurements with saddles with optimized characteristics.

It has been found experimentally that the pressure of the ankle on the saddle is affected by the different rotations of the pelvis in the sagittal plane, without being affected by the different inclinations of the torso, which cause discomfort and even cause pain.

Thus, the second selection method, as shown in Figure 10, will measure the pelvic forward tilt from the Adams test position. This position allows the humerus plate to be exposed, allowing for the determination of its inclination, which strongly depends on the extension of the muscles behind the femur (i.e., the muscles behind the thigh belonging to the posterior muscle chain).

In a preferred embodiment of the method, the measured average length of the peripheral range of the thigh is correlated with the intertrochanter distance I previously detected by the predetermined user using a predetermined formula or algorithm to obtain an anatomical index XQ. The index will allow an optimal selection of the third subset Q _n of the saddle S ₃ , which, as mentioned above, may also consist of a single saddle.

In particular, the anatomical index XQ is proportional to the ratio of the intertrochanteric distance to the average length of the average range of the user's thighs, which is measured from the hip pleats, minus the design to take into account males and females. Anatomical correction constant.

The value of this index XQ can be used to select a saddle having a standard planar shape or a saddle having a narrow connecting portion M having a concave side edge E and a sufficiently small maximum lateral width G which is slightly larger than The maximum width (not shown) of the mechanism that connects the saddle to the seatpost so that a narrow portion is defined at the user's thigh for reducing the inner surface of the thigh to the lateral side The compression and friction of the edge E is used to allow the rider's position to move toward the smaller width saddle portion to promote the extension of the thigh on the pelvis.

This will ensure that the ischial ridge is in contact with the saddle pad, which is the most comfortable area in which the saddle is large and cushioned.

By way of example and not limitation, the saddle can be as disclosed in the international patent WO2012010988. This type of saddle is particularly suitable for users having a relatively large average range of thigh range relative to their body shape and thus having a lower anatomical index XQ for which the standard contoured saddle will cause the interior of the thigh Excessive friction and limit the extension of the thigh from the pelvis.

Conversely, even for users with small anatomical indices XQ that may require a saddle with a relatively small maximum width _Umax , a narrow profile saddle will increase comfort and pedaling performance.

Fig. 11 schematically shows a matrix or a diagram of the three-dimensional distribution of the database B of the physical elements belonging to the saddle of the group P that have been provided.

The set Ω may define a matrix, which may be represented as a three-dimensional map of the anatomical parameters I, α, L _m as coordinate axes, as shown schematically in FIG.

For example, the set can be split into two first subsets W ₁ , W _{2 based} on the maximum width value U _max that can be detected at the wider rear portion W. One of the first subsets referred to as W ₁ includes a saddle S _i having a maximum width U _max that is smaller than another first subset W ₂ , and the other first subset will include a maximum width U _max at a relatively high A saddle within the range of high values.

Preferably, there may be a first subset W ₁ of saddles S _i having a maximum width of a predetermined minimum (e.g., approximately 130 mm); and another first subset W ₂ will contain a maximum width U _max A saddle that is a predetermined larger value (eg, approximately 140 mm).

The saddle S _i of the first subset W ₁ having a smaller maximum width value is considered to be optimized for a user having a inter-branched distance I that is less than a predetermined reference value, that is, substantially at 310 mm to Within the range of 350 mm, preferably in the range of 330 mm to 340 mm, and more preferably about 336 mm.

The saddle S _i of the first subset W ₂ having a larger maximum width value U _max is considered to be optimized for a user having a inter-branched distance I greater than the reference value.

It should be understood that two or more first subsets having different saddle maximum widths _Umax may be defined in the set Ω to improve the degree of optimization.

Each of the first subsets W ₁ , W ₂ may have two or more second subsets F ₁ , F ₂ , F ₃ , ... defined therein, the second subset being in the saddle The presence or/or size of the hole H or superficial hollow of the seat is different.

For example, each of the first subsets W ₁ , W ₂ may include three second subsets F ₁ , F ₂ , F ₃ , and one F ₁ includes a non-porous and/or hollow H saddle S _i , The other F ₂ comprises a saddle S _i having a hole H having a relatively small planar dimension a, and finally F ₃ comprising a saddle S _i having a relatively large planar dimension of the hole H.

The non-porous H saddle S _{i is} particularly suitable for detecting a user whose rotation angle α is less than a predetermined minimum, for example in the range of 40° to 55°, preferably in the range of 45° to 52°. More preferably, it is about 49°.

Having a relatively smaller rotational angle of aperture of a size or a shallow hollow saddle S _i H is especially suitable for the detected within a predetermined minimum value α and the maximum value of the predetermined range mentioned above the user, for example, the angle It is in the range of 55 to 75, preferably in the range of 60 to 70 and more preferably approximately 67.

The relatively large size a hole or shallow hollow H saddle S _{i is} particularly suitable for detecting a user whose rotation angle α is greater than the predetermined maximum value.

Therefore, a male or female user with a higher inclination angle α of the humerus plate and a risk of applying excessive compression to the ankle will tend to select the saddle S _i having a relatively large hole H, thereby ensuring the proper size The area where no compression is applied to the ankle.

Finally, each of the second subset F ₁ , F ₂ , F ₃ may have a second subset Q ₁ , Q ₂ ... defined in two or more thereof, the third subset being The shape of the saddle is different.

For example, the third subset may be defined two Q _1, Q _2, wherein Q ₁ contains a standard profile of a saddle S _i, Q ₂ and another third subset S _i comprising a narrow profile of the saddle.

The standard profile saddle S _i is considered to be optimal for a user system having an anatomical index XQ higher than a predetermined reference value XQ _r , for example in the range of 3 to 4, preferably 3.5 to Within the range of 3.8 and more preferably about 3.72.

The narrow profile saddle S _i is considered to be optimal for a user system having an anatomical index XQ lower than the reference value.

In each subset, the saddle can be further distinguished based on additional geometric and/or functional characteristics.

For example, each of the saddle S _i may be adapted for evaluating a plurality of physical properties (i.e., chemical or mechanical properties) of the composition produced at its C _t comfort parameters associated with a static conditions or dynamic conditions parameter may be.

For example, the parameter C _t can be established according to the following: the bending strength at three points (denoted as N), which is produced by the 5 mm displacement given at point BRP®, which is substantially the width of the saddle The axial position at about 70 mm coincides; the thickness of the finished saddle pad, the finished saddle pad coincides with the ischial region (ie, the posterior portion designed for hip support); and the finished saddle density or pad hardness, The pad hardness was measured using a Xiao's LX-C hardness tester at the support of the ischial bulge.

Figure 13 shows a flow chart of the method of the invention in which the saddle is arranged in a subset according to the three-dimensional view of Figure 11.

However, it will be appreciated that the set Ω may also be organized in a different manner than described above, and may provide two or more first subsets F ₁ , F ₂ , F ₃ that differ in aperture H, or may Two or more first subsets Q ₁ , Q ₂ which are different from each other in planar shape are provided. Thus, depending on the combination, the second subset and the third subset will differ in the other of the remaining characteristics.

Therefore, the first anatomical parameter to be measured may be the inclination angle α of the humerus plate, that is, the average length L _m of the peripheral range of the thigh, rather than the intertrochanteric distance.

The second parameter and the third parameter may be comprised of any of the remaining anatomical parameters, according to any possible detection sequence.

Figure 14 shows a second system 10 for implementing step c) of the method illustrated in Figure 10.

In particular, FIGS. 15 to 17 illustrates some exemplary and non-limiting mode of operation of the present invention, respectively, for detecting anatomical parameters I, α, L _m.

The second system 10 mainly includes: a first measuring mechanism 11 for detecting a first value D ₁ , the first value indicating a distance R between the standing users; and a second measuring mechanism 12 For detecting a second value D ₂ indicating a tilt angle α of the humerus plate in the sagittal plane of the user standing and tilting forward; and a third measuring mechanism 13 for detecting third value D _3, the third value indicative of the average length in the range of measured standing position of the user's thighs L _m.

A conversion mechanism 14 is also provided, such as a converter for converting the first value D ₁ , the second value D _{2 ,} and the third value D ₃ into a digital format.

The system is supplemented by a processing mechanism such as a conventional desktop PC or a notebook PC, that is, a microprocessor, one or more RAMs and/or a large-capacity memory unit and an I/O interface mechanism and operating system. A computer such as Windows® or Linux®.

In particular, the memory unit 15 can store the database B of the set Ω of the physical elements S _i and the values D ₁ , D ₂ , D ₃ , which correspond to different geometric and/or functional characteristics. Bicycle saddle.

The program can be installed in the microprocessor 16 for processing the digitized values D ₁ , D ₂ , D ₃ , which in turn allows calculation of the above anatomical index XQ and user-optimized saddle from the database B. Automatic body measurement selection.

As better shown in Figure 14, the first metrology mechanism 11 can include a metrology device 17 having a scale bar 18 having end pieces 19', 19" slidably mounted to the scale bar, The measuring device is used to abut against the buttocks of the standing user at the bulge.

Preferably, the end panels 19', 19" extend perpendicular to the rod 18 and have handles 20', 20" for the operator.

In practice, the measuring device 17 is generally C-shaped to partially surround the user and to detect the distance I between the intertrochanteric.

The two tail pieces 19', 19" have curved free ends 21', 21" which are designed to abut against the coarse block and allow for special indications on the scale 22 associated with the rod 18. The distance I is read directly. For this purpose, one of the two sliding tails 19' can be equipped with a reading window 23 with this indicator.

20 through 21 are more detailed views of the inclinometer device 24, which is part of the second metrology mechanism 12 and is adapted to detect the angle of inclination a of the user's tibial plate.

In particular, the inclinometer 24 includes a base 25 that is designed to be placed on the user's humerus plate; and a sensitive element (not shown) for measuring the tilt angle a.

Conveniently, the base 25 is associated with an indicator mechanism 26 that displays the detected measurements. In a preferred non-limiting configuration of the invention, the mechanism can be a digital type.

For example, the inclinometer 24 includes a box-like housing 27 mounted above the base 25 and having an electronic card (not shown) therein that is coupled to a digital display 28 for displaying the detected tilt angle a.

The third measuring mechanism 13 may comprise a flexible measuring tape 29 having a scale or any other similar measuring instrument, the scale not necessarily having an international scale, the flexible measuring tape or any other similar measuring instrument being adapted to surround The user's thighs measure the length of the perimeter of the thigh in the desired area.

Advantageously, the measuring tape 29 can be mounted in the compartment 30 of the box-shaped casing 27 of the inclinometer 24 such that it can be deployed by overcoming the force of the resilient return mechanism, and the measuring tape 29 can be calibrated The dynamometer 31 is configured to measure under a predetermined constant and repeatable tension.

In a particularly advantageous aspect, the present invention provides an accessory 32 that is adapted to be associated with the inclinometer 24 and that is adapted to measure the tilt of the saddle S for adjustment.

In particular, the attachment 32 includes a stem 33 having an end rail 34 that is adapted to be slidably received in a lower central groove 35 formed in the base 25 of the inclinometer 24.

Thus, the rod 33 will have three different support points, allowing the attachment 32 to be used on any type of saddle, even on saddles where the seating surface has a particularly deep depression and hollow.

The rod 33 comprises a pair of telescoping tail pieces 36, 37 which are arranged symmetrically about the rod 33.

The rod 33 is designed to be placed on the top surface C of the saddle S, wherein the tail pieces 36, 37 are designed to abut the side edge E of the saddle at a narrow portion M close to the saddle.

Preferably, in the operational withdrawal position of the two tail pieces, the tail pieces have a predetermined lateral distance of about 70 mm between them, thereby defining a region having a width of 70 mm in the saddle, the area corresponding to the above mentioned The comfort index determines the BRP point ( biomechanical reference point ) required for the test.

In addition, the tail pieces 36, 37 are assembled to prevent insertion of the rod 33, when the tail pieces 36, 37 are in the retracted position, and in turn when the inclinometer 24 itself is in a configuration suitable for measuring the inclination angle a of the humerus plate At the time, the inclinometer 24 is prevented from measuring the inclination of the saddle S.

Advantageously, if desired, the tape 29 mounted in the compartment 30 of the box-like housing 27 can be used to measure the distance of the saddle S from the handle while measuring the inclination of the saddle S.

Thus, the accessory 32 associated with the inclinometer 24 and associated with the metrology belt 29 is a multi-function instrument that allows the user to make an optimal measurement of the saddle's body and achieve an angular position of the saddle relative to the bicycle frame. And the optimal adjustment of the longitudinal position.

Finally, the measuring device 17 can be used to measure the width of the shoulder of the user so that the handle can also be optimally selected from a number of handles having different widths.

Therefore, the system thus assembled is a multi-functional system that allows the saddle and the large The customization of some bicycle frames has provided a bicycle that is optimized for human body measurement.

The method and system of the present invention can be modified or varied in the scope of the inventive concept disclosed in the appended claims. All the details of the invention may be replaced by other technically equivalent parts, and the materials may vary depending on the needs, without departing from the scope of the invention.

For example, all of the above-described measuring mechanisms 11, 12, 13 may be replaced by other mechanisms that allow the required measurements to be performed, and may be analog or digital, possibly electronic measuring type or laser measuring type or the like. type.

Although the method and system are described with particular reference to the accompanying drawings, the figures of the disclosure and the scope of the claims are only intended to provide a better understanding of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention.

Claims (22)

A method for optimizing the selection of a bicycle saddle in a population of different saddles, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a data formed by a set (Ω) of physical elements (S _i ) library (B), the set corresponding to the saddle of the different groups; b) of a predetermined geometrical properties and / or functions of the set functional properties ([Omega]) is subdivided into a plurality of subsets _{(W 1, W 2; F} 1 , F ₂ ; Q ₁ , Q ₂ ;...); c) collecting a plurality of anatomical parameters (I, α, L _m , ...) of a user to determine corresponding data (D ₁ , D ₂ , D _{3 )} ,...); d) selecting these sub-sets (W ₁ , W ₂ ; F ₁ , F ₂ ; Q ₁ , Q ₂ ;...) according to the data (D ₁ , D ₂ , D ₃ , ...) a subset of the corresponding optimization characteristics; wherein the geometric and/or functional properties are selected from at least a maximum plane width (U _max ), a hole and/or a superficial hollow (H) presence and size, and a group of planar shapes of the saddle; and wherein the plurality of parameters (I, α, L _m , ...) are collected on a user in a standing position with legs extended. The method of claim 1, wherein the set (Ω) is subdivided into a first subset (W ₁ , W ₂ ) and a second subset (F ₁ ) according to the geometric and/or functional characteristics. , F ₂ ) to perform the subdivision step b). The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the collecting step c) comprises: collecting one of the first anatomical parameters (I) of the user to obtain a first data (D ₁ ), the first anatomy The parameter is selected from the group consisting of at least the intertrochanteric distance (I); and one of the user's second anatomical parameters (α) is collected to obtain a second data (D ₂ ), the second anatomical parameter It is selected from the group consisting of the inclination angle (α) of the humerus plate. The method of claim 3, wherein the selecting step d) comprises: selecting one of the subsets (W ₁ , W ₂ ) having a first optimization characteristic according to the first data (D ₁ ) subset; and selecting such a second subset (F _1, F ₂₎ in (D ₂₎ having a second characteristic based on the optimal a second data subset. The method of claim 3, wherein the first anatomical parameter (I) is the inter-branched distance of the user, and the first subset (W ₁ , W ₂ ) comprises the first The data (D ₁ ) has the optimum maximum width (U _max ) of the element (S _i ). The method of claim 3, wherein the angle of inclination (α) defining the second anatomical parameter is detected by a user whose legs are upright and the torso is tilted forward, and wherein the second subset (F ₁ , F ₂ ) comprises an optimisation element (S _i ) with or without pores and/or superficial hollows (H) according to the second data (D ₂ ). The method of claim 3, wherein the step c) of collecting the first anatomical parameter (I) is at a predetermined distance (d _F ) from the front of the pair of mirrors (6, 7) The user in the standing position detects that the pair of mirrors are placed on a vertical plate (5) with a minimum distance (d _min ) and a vertical center line (V); and about the pair of mirrors (6) 7) to further detect the user's outline. The method of claim 7, wherein the contour has no reflection on the pair of mirrors (6, 7) relative to the first sub-size corresponding to the maximum width (U _max ) of the saddle The first data (D ₁ ) associated with the set (W ₁ , W ₂ ); and the reflection of the contour on the pair of mirrors (6, 7) relative to the maximum width corresponding to the saddle (U _max The first data (D ₁ ) associated with the first subset (W ₁ , W ₂ ) of a large size. The method of claim 3, wherein the step c) of collecting the second anatomical parameter (α) is performed by the user bending the torso and extending the arms downwardly and placing the finger tip on a vertical panel (8) In the front, the vertical panel has a horizontal landmark (9) placed at a predetermined height (h ₁ ) from the ground. The method of claim 9, wherein the end of the user's hands fails to reach the horizontal landmark (9) to correspond to the second subset (F ₁ , F ₂ ) and corresponds to none a second material (D ₂ ) of a hole and/or a saddle of the superficial hollow (H); and the user's fingertip reaching the horizontal landmark (9) corresponds to the second subset (F ₁ , F ₂ ) is associated and corresponds to a second material (D ₂ ) of a saddle having a hole and/or a superficial hollow (H). The method of claim 1, wherein the set (Ω) is subdivided into a first subset (W ₁ , W ₂ ) and a second subset (F ₁ ) according to the geometric and/or functional characteristics. , F ₂ , F ₃ ) and a third subset (Q ₁ , Q ₂ ) to implement the subdivision step b). The method of claim 11, wherein the collecting step c) comprises: detecting a first anatomical parameter (I) of the user to obtain a first data (D ₁ ), the first anatomical parameter Selecting among groups including at least the intertrochanteric distance (I); detecting one of the user's second anatomical parameters (α) to obtain a second data (D ₂ ), the second anatomical parameter Selecting among the group including the inclination angle (α) of the humerus plate; and detecting a third anatomical parameter (L _m ) of the user to obtain a third data (D ₃ ), the third Anatomical parameters are selected from the group consisting of the average length of the perimeter of the thigh. The method of claim 12, wherein the selecting step d) comprises: selecting the first subset (W ₁ , W ₂ ) to have a first optimization characteristic according to the first data (D ₁ ) a subset; selecting a subset of the second subset (F ₁ , F ₂ , F ₃ ) having a second optimization characteristic according to the second data (D ₂ ); and selecting the third The subset (Q ₁ , Q ₂ ) has a subset of a third optimization characteristic according to the third material (D ₃ ). The method of claim 12, wherein the average length (L _m ) of the peripheral extent of the thigh of the user defining a third anatomical parameter is at the hip pleat of the user in a standing position. Detected, and wherein the third subset (Q ₁ , Q ₂ ) comprises an element (S _i ) having an optimized planar shape according to the third data (D ₃ ). The method of claim 14, wherein the third subset (Q ₁ , Q ₂ ) is determined via an anatomical formula or an algorithm (XQ), the formula or algorithm is based on the ridge The ratio between the distance (I) and the average length of the peripheral extent of the user's thigh collected at the hip pleat is obtained. A method as claimed in one or more of claims 12 to 15, wherein the set (Ω) of elements (S _i ) defines a matrix that can use the first anatomical parameter (I), the second The anatomical parameter (α) and the third anatomical parameter (L _m ) are represented as a three-dimensional map of the coordinate axes. A system for performing a human body measurement selection for optimizing a bicycle saddle and for actuating a method according to the aforementioned items 11 to 16 of the patent application, the system comprising: - a first measuring mechanism (11) For detecting a first anatomical parameter (I) of the user; - a second measuring mechanism (12) for detecting a second anatomical parameter (α) of the user; - a third amount a measuring mechanism (13) for detecting a third anatomical parameter (L _m ) of the user; a conversion mechanism (14) for the first, second and third anatomical parameters ( I, α, L _m ) are converted into a digital format (D ₁ , D ₂ , D ₃ ); a memory mechanism (15) for storing one formed by a set (Ω) of the physical elements (S _i ) a database (B) for storing the first, second and third digital data (D ₁ , D ₂ , D ₃ ), the physical elements corresponding to saddles having different geometric and/or functional characteristics; a processing and computing mechanism (16) for calculating the first, second and third digital data (D ₁ , D ₂ , D ₃ ) and in the database according to the method steps of claim 11 B) choose one Or multiple optimized saddles. The system of claim 17, wherein the first measuring mechanism (11) comprises a gauge device (17) having a scale bar (18) having a longitudinally slidable end piece ( 19', 19"), and the gauge device is designed to abut against the buttocks of the user's buttocks of the standing user, wherein the tail pieces (19', 19") preferably range It is perpendicular to the rod (18) and preferably has a handle (20', 20") for an operator. The system of claim 17 or 18, wherein the second measuring mechanism (12) comprises an inclinometer (24) having a base (25) designed to be placed on the torso forwardly The user's humerus plate. The system of claim 19, wherein the inclinometer (24) is a digital device and includes a box-shaped casing (27), the box-shaped casing is located above the base (25) and encloses an electronic card. The electronic card is coupled to a digital display (28) for displaying the tilt angle (α). The system of claim 20, wherein the third measuring mechanism (13) comprises a measuring tape (29) of a flexible material contained in a compartment (30) of the box-shaped casing (27). The measuring tape (29) has: a scale for measuring the length of the peripheral range of each thigh; and a free end having a calibrated dynamometer (31) for a predetermined tension Repeat this measurement. A system according to claim 21, wherein an attachment (32) is adapted to be associated with the inclinometer (24) for adjusting the inclination of a saddle, wherein the attachment (32) comprises a rod (33), the rod Having a one end crosspiece (34) adapted to be slidably mounted in a central groove (35) of the base (25); and a pair of telescoping tail pieces (36, 37), the pair of tail pieces being The predetermined distance is symmetrically arranged about the rod (33), which corresponds to the width of the saddle corresponding to the BRP® (biomechanical reference point) point.