A mechanically decoupled two force component bicycle pedal dynamometer.
A design is presented for a bicycle pedal dynamometer that measures both normal and tangential forces (i.e. driving forces). Mechanical decoupling is used to reduce the cross-sensitivity of the dynamometer to loads doing no work to propel the bicycle. This obviates the need to measure all six loads for accurate data reduction. A compact strain ring is the transducer element, and a monolithic design eliminates mechanical hysteresis between the strain ring and the dynamometer frame. The angular orientation of the dynamometer with respect to the crank arm is determined with a continuous-rotation potentiometer. Design criteria and design implementation are discussed, sample data are presented, and the performance of the dynamometer is evaluated.
Newmiller
J
J
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Davis 95616.
Hull
M L
ML
Zajac
F E
FE
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005080:Exercise Test / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D007596:Joints / Q000502:physiology*; D009132:Muscles / Q000502:physiology*; D005082:Physical Exertion; D012984:Software