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Computerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclistRelated Patent Categories: Exercise Devices, Having Specific Electrical Feature, Monitors Exercise ParameterComputerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist description/claimsThe Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20070142177, Computerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist. Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
FIELD OF INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to an automated way of customizing and optimizing the fit of a bicycle (or other human powered conveyance) to a particular person. BACKGROUND [0002] Historically, most individuals who purchase a bicycle were steered toward a bicycle frame that appeared to be a good fit for their height and stature. Over time, many bicycle shop employees have become experienced at approximating what frame size will be a reasonable match. A bicycle can be chosen from off-the-shelf sizes that range from 13-26 inches. This is a measurement of the distance from the center of the pedal crank bearing (bottom bracket) at the bottom of the bicycle to top of the top tube that connects the saddle to the handlebars. Once a bicycle was chosen, the only refinements to the selected bike were typically limited to minor adjustments made to the height of the saddle. [0003] More recently, two options for bicycle fitting have become available. The first of these is a fully manual technique, which measures basic body dimensions, including inseam and arm length. These dimensions are usually taken using a tape measure, and then these dimensions, along with subjective knowledge of the art of bicycle fitting, translate into either a selected frame size, adjustments to the components on the frame, or both. This approach is a static fit, and yields an approximate adaptation of the body size to the bicycle. What follows typically is a brief test ride by the buyer, who very subjectively evaluates the quality of the fit (generally without any knowledge of what constitutes a good fit). [0004] The second, more recent, option involves performing a dynamic bicycle fit and uses an optical tracking system and a computer. This analysis utilizes either a bicycle that the cyclist already owns, one that the cyclist may purchase if the fit is successful, or a "bicycle simulator" with an adjustable frame. In the case of a traditional bicycle, the rear wheel is held off the ground with a mechanical stand that permits pedaling of the bicycle at a stationary location. (The stand may also include a separate power output sensor and indicator.) This test is dynamic, with the cyclist pedaling the bicycle while the cyclist is videotaped from various angles. The computer may convert the optical information into a stick figure. The information in such graphical pictures is analyzed by the system operator for the quality of the fit to the individual or for adjustments to components on the bicycle or the cyclist. Automated analysis by the computer may include certain generic, automated distance and angle measurements. Such a system is described in Andy Pruitt's Medical Guide for Cyclists (available on the Internet as an e-book from www.roadbikerider.com). It employs a Motus marker tracking system (www.peakperform.com, Vicor Peak, Colorado Springs, Colo.), which is a generic motion tracking system, not specifically designed for bicycle fitting. [0005] Andy Pruitt, a leading expert in the field, explains in his aforementioned book why dynamic fitting is preferable. However, his methods and his system require experiential intuition and are at best only partly quantitative and automated. The optical tracking system is generic and not specific to bicycle fitting. What is lacking is a system (a) which is more quantitative and automated, (b) which is specific to bicycle fitting, (c) which leverages a computerized quantitative database of experience, and (d) which is easy for a less qualified bicycle shop employee or racing team mechanic to use. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0006] The purpose of the present invention is to perform a semi-automated, low cost, high accuracy bicycle fit for an individual. One objective of the invention is to determine the proper bicycle frame size and geometry for the individual who is purchasing a new bicycle, possibly from a database of geometries of available models. A second objective of the invention is to determine how to adjust a bicycle so that the bicycle-to-cyclist interface is optimized. A third objective of the system is to determine which components on a bicycle could be changed so that the bicycle-to-cyclist interface is optimized. A fourth objective of the system is to determine which components should be added to the bicycle or the cyclist, or deleted from the bicycle or the cyclist, so that the bicycle-to-cyclist interface is optimized. This optimization can be directed at riding comfort, riding endurance, riding performance, or some other target criterion. [0007] The invention is a system that performs precision measurements of body motions while a rider (cyclist) pedals a bicycle, potentially with realistic resistance, which itself might be used to quantify power output. The invention tracks the repetitive motions of pedaling a bicycle, and provides both visual outputs and quantitative measurements of the repetitive motions, which are then analyzed for correctable variations or anomalies in the movements. The analysis is dynamic, integrated, and synchronized. [0008] In use, the invention is operated by "harnessing" the individual to be fitted. This process consists of attaching sensible markers--such as light emitting diodes (LED's)--to the individual's foot, ankle, knee, hip, shoulder, and wrist or other such locations. These markers are attached by means of a double sided adhesive pad, Velcro.RTM. straps, elastic straps, or similar fasteners. The markers are attached such that they can be viewed from the left or right side of the individual or both. A marker location tracking system (optical tracker) capable of detecting the moment-by-moment 3-dimensional locations of the markers (as well as the times of their acquisition) is positioned in proximity to the stationary bicycle, such as to one side. The individual is then asked to pedal the stationary bicycle while the tracker captures data. The test is then repeated on the other side of the individual's body. Alternatively, if the system employs a more sophisticated tracker (or multiple trackers), the data from more than one viewpoint (sides or front) could be acquired simultaneously. [0009] A preferred method of use of the present invention gathers dynamic data to determine the optimum size of an "in-stock" bicycle for an individual purchasing a new bicycle. For this use of the invention, manual adjustments could be made to a commercially available bicycle between repeated sessions using the present invention. For example, the height, angle, and setback (fore-aft) position of the saddle are typical adjustments. Similarly, the height and angle of the handlebar may be adjustable. In addition, after-market components could be evaluated based on their proper fit to the cyclist being fitted. Such components include, but are not limited to, handlebar, saddle, pedals, and shoes. For example, the handlebar can be positioned forward or upward by replacing the handlebar stem with a longer one. Additionally, the angle of the handlebar within the stem can be adjusted. Similarly, the crank arms of the pedals may be replaced to change their length as necessary, or spacers or wedges may be added to the pedals or shoes. [0010] In another preferred method of use of the invention, the data gathered by the system is used to determine the dimensions for a custom frame to be manufactured to fit the particular cyclist being fitted. The dimensions obtained from measuring the individual are used in a manual or automatic manner to manufacture the frame built to that cyclist's specifications. As with other methods of use, after-market or custom components could be evaluated for attachment to the custom bicycle frame. An advanced form of the invention could even suggest components from a database of component options of known dimensions and geometry. [0011] In an additional method of use of the invention, the data gathered by the system is used to perform manual adjustments or changes to a bicycle that a cyclist already owns. In this embodiment, the data obtained from the invention is used to analyze opportunities to adjust the bicycle or the riding position favorably to a more comfortable or more efficient riding position. The data can also be used to determine opportunities to employ substitute bicycle components to provide a more comfortable or more efficient riding position. Upon completion of adjustments or component substitutions, the test is repeated. An updated set of data is gathered, and compared to the previous results for changes. This process applies to all adjustable or alterable dimensions of the bicycle and cyclist riding position. The process may be repeated as many times as is necessary or desirable to optimize all of the adjustable geometries available to the cyclist. [0012] In an advanced embodiment of the apparatus of the invention, the data gathered by the system is used to dynamically and automatically adjust a bicycle simulator to the optimum riding position for the cyclist. In this embodiment, information from the system is fed back on a real-time basis to adjust various individual bicycle fit parameters sequentially and dynamically in a way that optimally modifies all dimensions that are critical to a proper fit. These changes are made on a real-time, automated basis while the cyclist is riding a bicycle fitting apparatus (simulator). This advanced embodiment of the present invention could employ computer-controlled motors, pneumatics, or hydraulics to modify the simulator's geometry automatically and dynamically to fit the cyclist. The output of the session would be the set of dimensions to which to adjust an existing or new bicycle in order to achieve the same "fit" on that bicycle as was obtained on the bicycle simulator. Alternatively, the dimensions would serve as specifications for a custom built bicycle. [0013] In another embodiment of the invention, a database is maintained in which are collected the bicycle fit measurements of many successful fittings, which have been performed previously. This data is used to aid in future products and services as may be developed. This data may also be reused when a previously fitted individual purchases a new bicycle or wishes to have the fit optimized to a different choice of comfort, endurance, or performance. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principle of the invention. [0015] FIG. 1 is a simplified perspective view of the major components of this invention as an apparatus. [0016] FIG. 2 is a flow chart summarizing the method of performing a bicycle fit using the invention. [0017] FIG. 3 is a flow chart summarizing the automated portion of the method of performing a bicycle fit using the invention. [0018] FIG. 4 depicts an example of what might appear on the screen of the computer operating the present invention. [0019] The figures contain the following numerically identified elements: [0020] 1 a cyclist for whom a bicycle fitting session is being performed [0021] 10 a bicycle, training bike, bicycle fit simulator, exercise bike, or the like [0022] 11 a bicycle support stand, trainer base, or similar support [0023] 12 a bicycle frame (optionally supplied by the cyclist) [0024] 13 a bicycle handlebar (optionally supplied by the cyclist) [0025] 14 a bicycle saddle (optionally supplied by the cyclist) [0026] 15 each of two pedals (optionally supplied by the cyclist) [0027] 16 each of two wheels (optionally supplied by the cyclist) [0028] 20 an implicit 3-dimensional coordinate system [0029] 22 a wiring harness for powering and controlling markers 24 [0030] 24 each of a plurality of trackable markers (such as light emitting diodes) [0031] 28 at least one marker tracker able to locate each marker in 3-dimensions [0032] 30 a computer system (such as a laptop) and operating system [0033] 32 a data path between each tracker and the computer system [0034] 34 application software (instructions and data) running on computer system 30 [0035] 40 optional power output sensor DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Continue reading about Computerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist... Full patent description for Computerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims Click on the above for other options relating to this Computerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist patent application. ###  How KEYWORD MONITOR works... a FREE service from FreshPatents1. Sign up (takes 30 seconds). 2. Fill in the keywords to be monitored. 3. Each week you receive an email with patent applications related to your keywords. Start now! - Receive info on patent apps like Computerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist or other areas of interest. ### Previous Patent Application: Automated physical training system Next Patent Application: Trampoline with dual spring elements Industry Class: Exercise devices ### FreshPatents.com Support Thank you for viewing the Computerized method and system for fitting a bicycle to a cyclist patent info. 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