FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an exercise bike and more particularly to an exercise bike comprising a processor configured to provide an output.

BACKGROUND

Known exercise bikes allow a user to pedal against resistance and possibly keep track of time, distance and such via an on-board computer. To improve upon this, modern exercise bike arrangements may be provided with or be connectable to a display which portrays a graphic viewable by the rider and intended to improve the rider experience. The display can simply show footage recorded in the real-world, perhaps the view from a popular trail, whilst the stationary rider cycles the exercise bike. Or, better still, if the displayed graphic is adaptable based on the input of the rider (power and cadence, for example), then the exercise bike can simulate speeding up, slowing down and perhaps even allow a user some steering control.

Exercise bikes such as the apparatus disclosed in US2002055422 have previously been suggested, and are known to include various sensors that can detect user inputs. The detected/measured inputs are then passed to a processor of the arrangement and used to simulate a riding experience.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention seeks to improve upon known exercise bikes.

Accordingly, the present invention provides:

In a first embodiment, an exercise bike comprising: a base; a frame; a handlebar; a tilt angle sensor; a steering angle sensor; and a processor, wherein: the frame is rotatably mounted to the base, and wherein the tilt angle sensor is configured to measure a tilt angle of the frame relative to the base; the handlebar is mounted to the frame, and wherein the steering angle sensor is configured to measure a steering angle of the handlebar; and the processor is configured to provide an output based on a combination of the measured tilt angle and steering angle.

In at least one embodiment the tilt angle sensor is configured to measure the tilt angle relative to a frame datum position in which the frame is arranged substantially perpendicular relative to the base; and the steering angle sensor is configured to measure the steering angle relative to a handlebar datum position in which the handlebar is arranged substantially perpendicular to the frame.

In at least one embodiment the output is based on a combination of X% of the measured tilt angle and Y% of the measured steering angle.

In at least one embodiment the combination Is based on the value(s) of the measured tilt angle and/or the measured steering angle.

In at least one embodiment the output is based on a combination of X% of the measured tilt angle and Y% of the measured steering angle, wherein the value of X is based on the measured tilt angle and/or the value ofY is based on the measured steering angle.

In at least one embodiment the combination is based on the relative difference between the measured tilt angle and the measured steering angle.

In at least one embodiment the output is based on a combination of X% of the tilt angle (8) and Y% of the steering angle (a), wherein:

X = aθ ^b , wherein ‘a’ and ‘b’ are predetermined; and

Y = cα ^d , wherein ‘c’ and ‘d’ are predetermined.

In at least one embodiment the processor is further configurable in use such that the combination of the measured tiit angle and the measured steering angle are configurable by the user.

In at least one embodiment the output is configured for controlling a graphic, simulation program, video game or other media.

In at least one embodiment the frame further comprises a head tube and a steering stem rotatably received In the head tube; the handlebar mounted to the steering stem such that the user may apply a torque to the steering stem by rotating the handlebar. In at least one embodiment a resilient handlebar mounting is provided between the frame and handlebar, configured to bias the handlebar towards the handlebar datum position in which the handlebar is arranged substantially perpendicular to the frame.

In at least one embodiment the handlebar is removably mounted to the frame.

In at least one embodiment a resilient frame mounting is provided between the base and frame configured to bias the frame towards the frame datum position in which the frame is arranged substantially perpendicular relative to the base.

In at least one embodiment the exercise bike further comprises a drive mechanism and/or flywheel.

In at least one embodiment a sensing system for use with a bike comprising: at least one sensor, for attachment to the bike in use and configured to measure a tilt angle and a steering angle of the bike; and a processor configured to provide an output based on a combination of the measured tilt angle and steering angle.

In at least one embodiment the sensing system comprises a tilt angle sensor configured to measure a tilt angle of the bike, and a steering angle sensor configured to measure a steering angle of a handlebar of the bike.

In at least one embodiment an arrangement comprising: a bike configured to tilt, the bike comprising a rotatable handlebar; and the sensing system mounted to the bike, wherein the at least one sensor is arranged to measure a tilt angle and a steering angle of the bike,

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In order that the present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGURE 1 schematically illustrates an exercise bike according to at least one embodiment. For the purposes of illustration, the handlebar is shown as a straight bar with no bends and a central handlebar axis, this is representative of the elongate central part of any handlebar detailed below.

FIGURE 2 schematically illustrates an exercise bike according to at least one embodiment, as viewed from above. This figure demonstrates the steering angle (a) by illustrating the handlebar firstly in the datum position (solid lines), and secondly in a non-datum position (broken lines) wherein the handlebar has been rotated by a steering angle (a). For the purposes of illustration, the handlebar is shown as a straight bar with no bends and a central handlebar axis, this is representative of the elongate central part of any handlebar detailed below.

FIGURE 3 schematically illustrates an exercise bike according to at least one embodiment as viewed from the front. This figure demonstrates the tilt angle (0) by illustrating the frame firstly in the datum position (solid lines), and secondly in a non-datum position (broken lines) wherein the frame has been tilted by a tilt angle (0). For the purposes of illustration, the handlebar is shown as a straight bar with no bends and a central handlebar axis, this is representative of the elongate central part of any handlebar detailed below.

FIGURE 4 is a flow chart which demonstrates the processing of the detected angles of tilt (0) and steering (a) in at least one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Generally, embodiments of the present invention relate to an exercise bike configured to provide an output.

Figure 1 schematically illustrates an exercise bike 1 for static use. The exercise bike 1 is configured to allow a user to exercise. The exercise bike 1 may define a longitudinal direction parallel to a user’s general direction of travel if the exercise bike 1 were a conventional bike, a width which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and substantially horizontal, and a height perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction and the width.

Base

The exercise bike 1 comprises a base 2 and a frame 3. The base 2 is positioned in the lower portion of the exercise bike 1 . The base 2 is configured to provide a sturdy platform capable of supporting the weight of the exercise bike 1 and a user in use. The base 2 rests on a floor 50 of the area in which the exercise bike is used. The base 2 may comprise at least one central longitudinal bar 20 in use to support the frame 3. The longitudinal bar 20 may not be a single bar, and may be a plurality of bars. The at least one bar 20 may be of square or circular cross-section or any other suitable cross-section. In a condition where the floor 50 is substantially flat, the base 2 may provide a plane of support which is substantially parallel to the floor 50 and substantially horizontal.

Legs and feet

The base 2 may further comprise at least one leg 21 , which may be formed of similar material to the at least one longitudinal bar 20. The at least one leg 21 may be mounted to the longitudinal bar (s) 20 and configured to extend at least laterally from the bar 20. The at least one leg 21 may be configured to extend out from the longitudinal bar 20 in order to increase the footprint area of the exercise bike 1 . The footprint of the exercise bike 1 may be configured to provide an adequate support footprint for the exercise bike 1 in use with the additional weight of a user, such that if the centre of mass of the exercise bike 1 changes as the user tilts the frame 3 and/or shifts their mass, the base 2 prevents the exercise bike 1 from toppling. The base 2 of the exercise bike 1 may be configured to adequately support users of various different sizes and weights. The base 2 may be substantially wider and longer than it is tall, with reference to the directions set out above for the frame 3 and according to the footprint mentioned previously. The at least one leg 21 may provide a fitting for at least one foot 22. The at least one foot 22 is configured to rest on the floor 50. The at least one foot 22 may provide a form of adjustment to account for discrepancies in the floor 50 level. The at least one foot 22 may be formed from a material which offers resistance to slip between the base 2 and floor 50 such as rubber. Alternatively, the at least one leg 21 may be configured to include a foot as opposed to providing a fitting. Generally, the base 2 (comprising the longitudinal bar 20 and any legs 21) extends in a plane which is substantially horizontal in use, parallel to the surface of the floor.

Wheels and handle

The base 2 may further comprise at least one wheel (not illustrated) to aid in positioning the exercise bike 1 . The at least one wheel may be a castor type wheel configured to rotate on a vertical axis as well as horizontal. The base 2 may further comprise a handle 24. The handle 24 may be attached to the longitudinal bar 20 or any other part of the base 2 or frame 3 and is configured to help position the exercise bike 1 . The handle 24 may be positioned at an opposite longitudinal end of the at least one wheel such that when the handle 24 is raised by a user, the base 2 is rotated about a horizontal axis onto the at least one wheel such that the exercise bike 1 is readily manoeuvrable.

Frame

The frame 3 may comprise a seat tube 30, top tube 31 and down tube 32. These tubes 30, 31 , 32 may be joined so as to substantially define a triangle, as is conventional. The frame 3 may further comprise at least one chain stay 33 and at least one seat stay 34 which together with the seat tube 30 are joined so as to substantially define a second triangle, as is conventional. It is to be understood that several types of frame are suitable for use with the invention and that the previously mentioned conventional frame is preferable but not essential to the disclosure. The frame 3 may be of any of the following varieties: step-through, cantilever, recumbent, prone, cross, truss, monocoque, folding or tandem.

The frame 3 is rotatably mounted to the base 2. The frame 3 may be rotatably mounted to the longitudinal bar 20 of the base 2. The frame 3 may be rigidly mounted to the longitudinal bar 20 of the base 2, wherein the longitudinal bar 20 is rotatable within at least one mounting (not illustrated) to the at least one leg 21 . The axis of rotation of the frame 3 relative to the base 2 is in the longitudinal direction of the exercise bike 1 and is positioned in the lower portion of the exercise bike 1 . The frame 3 may further comprise at least one mechanical stop (not illustrated) which allows the frame 3 to rotate relative to the base 2 only within a predetermined range. The predetermined range may be 30° in either direction from a datum (defined below). The at least one mechanical stop may be part of the base 2 and/or frame 3. The at least one mechanical stop may comprise at least one buffer mounted to the base 2 and at least one tab mounted to the frame 3 and configured to rotate with the frame 3 within the range determined by the placement of the at least one buffer.

Plane of the frame

The frame 3 defines a primary plane which shall be referred to as the plane 300 of the frame. This plane 300 may be defined as the plane which substantially intersects the central axes of the tubes 30, 31 , 32, 33 and 34 of the frame 3. The plane 300 of the frame may be further defined as the plane which a user straddles with their legs when operating the exercise bike 1 , and further that the user’s torso is symmetrically intersected by the plane 300. This plane 300 may further define the meeting point of a left and right side of the exercise bike 1 , any turns or rotations can be referenced to these.

With reference to Figure 1 , the plane 300 of the frame is illustrated as a two dimensional rectangle when the exercise bike 1 is viewed from the side. The position of the plane 300 of the frame is further illustrated in Figure 2 and Figure 3 where it is depicted as a line. As viewed in Figure 2 and Figure 3, the surface of the plane 300 of the frame extends both in to and out of the page.

Generally, in use, the frame 3 is arranged such that the plane 300 is substantially vertical and/or substantially perpendicular to the plane of the base 2.

Handlebar

With reference to Figures 1 , 2 and 3, the handlebar 4 is depicted as a straight bar for the ease of illustration. The depicted handlebar 4 can be considered as the central elongate part of any appropriate handlebar 4. The handlebar 4 of the exercise bike 1 is mounted to the frame 3. The handlebar 4 is intended to give the user a sturdy handle to hold while they operate the exercise bike 1 as well as to offer a familiar riding position relative to a conventional bike. The handlebar 4 may be formed from a single tube which has been shaped to provide grip portions which are within comfortable reach of the user. The handlebar 4 may be any of the following varieties: dropped, bullhorn, riser, flat, aero or BMX. The handlebar 4 may comprise a tube with grip sections at each end for the user to hold. The grips may be formed of a slip resistant material. The grips may be further configured to be resistant to sweat from the user’s hands, and remain slip resistant when wet.

The handlebar 4 may further comprise a selection of control buttons and levers (not illustrated) configured to operate various mechanical and/or electronic features. The handlebar 4 may comprise at least one mechanical stop (not illustrated) which allows the handlebar 4 to rotate relative to the frame 3 only within a predetermined range. The predetermined range may be 45° in any direction from a datum (defined below). The at least one mechanical stop may be part of the frame 3 and/or handlebar 4. The at least one mechanical stop may comprise at least one buffer mounted to the frame 3 and at least one tab mounted to the handlebar 4 and configured to rotate with the handlebar 4 within the range determined by the placement of the at least one buffer.

Axis of the handlebar

At least the central part of the handlebar 4 is substantially elongate, and defines a central axis. This axis shall be referred to as the handlebar axis 400. The handlebar 4 may comprise a substantially elongate central part as above, and further comprise at least one bend in a direction away from the elongate portion.

With reference to Figure 1 , the handlebar axis 400 is illustrated as a cross hair which intersects the central axis of the handlebar 4. As viewed in Figure 1 the direction of the handlebar axis 400 is into and out of the page. As viewed in Figure 2 and Figure 3, the handlebar axis 400 direction is shown as being in the longitudinal direction of the handlebar 4.

Data

The frame datum position 301 is established as a position of the frame 3 relative to the base 2. The frame datum position 301 may be a neutral position of the frame 3 relative to the base 2. The frame datum position 301 may be achieved when the previously mentioned plane 300 of the frame is perpendicular to that of the base 2 (i.e. substantially vertical). The frame datum position 301 may be considered as a position from which positive or negative, clockwise or anti-clockwise rotations of the frame 3 are measured. The frame datum position 301 may be represented by the position a conventional bike frame would find itself in when being ridden straight ahead on level ground. With reference to Figure 3 the frame datum position 301 is illustrated as a vertical dashed line which intersects the point of rotation of the frame 3 about the base 2 and is perpendicular to the floor 50 and base 2 which in the embodiment illustrated are coplanar. There may be markings (not illustrated) present on the frame 3 and/or the base 2 which allow a user to identify when the frame 3 and base 2 are arranged to achieve the frame datum position 301 . The markings may be used as a means of calibrating the exercise bike 1 . The markings may further comprise other designations to demonstrate the maximum tilt angle 0 achievable by the frame 3 relative to the base 2. The markings may further comprise further designations for other purposes. The tilt angle sensor 5 may be configured to measure the tilt angle 0 of the frame 3 relative to the frame datum position 301 . The tilt angle 0 may be measured as 0° when the frame 3 is rotated to the frame datum position 301 . At a maximum rotation from the frame datum position 301 the tilt angle 0 may be a vector with a magnitude of the difference between the frame datum position 301 and the current position and a direction dependent on whether the tilt was to the left or right.

The handlebar datum position 401 is established as a position relative to the frame 3. The handlebar datum position 401 may be a neutral position of the handlebar 4 relative to the frame 3. The handlebar datum position 401 may be achieved when the previously mentioned handlebar axis 400 is perpendicular to the plane 300 of the frame. The handlebar datum position 401 may be considered as a position from which positive or negative, clockwise or anti-clockwise rotations of the handlebar 4 are measured from. The handlebar datum position 401 may be represented by the position a conventional bike handlebar would find itself in when being ridden straight ahead on level ground. With reference to Figure 2 the handlebar datum position 401 is illustrated as a dashed line which intersects the central axis of the handlebar 4 and is perpendicular to the plane 300 of the frame.

There may be markings (not illustrated) present on the handlebar 4 and/or the frame 3 which allow a user to identify when the handlebar 4 and frame 3 are arranged to achieve this handlebar datum position 401 . The markings may be used as a means of calibrating the exercise bike 1 . The markings may further comprise other designations to demonstrate the maximum steering angle a achievable by the handlebar 4 relative to the frame 3. The markings may further comprise further designations for other purposes.

The steering angle sensor 6 may be configured to measure the steering angle a of the handlebar 4 relative to the handlebar datum position 401 . The steering angle a may be measured as 0° when the handlebar 4 is rotated to the handlebar datum position 401 . At a maximum rotation from the handlebar datum position 401 the steering angle a may be a vector with a magnitude of the difference between the handlebar datum position 401 and the current position and a direction dependent on whether the steering was to the left or right.

Tilt angle

The measured tilt angle 0 is measured by a tilt angle sensor 5. The tilt angle 0 may be defined as the angle between the floor 50 of the area (or the plane of the base 2) and the plane 300 of the frame. Figure 3 illustrates the exercise bike 1 and frame datum position 301 as viewed from the front. Figure 3 further illustrates the exercise bike 1 in use where the frame 3 has been tilted by a tilt angle 0 (as shown in broken line). The result of this tilt is that the plane 300 of the frame is rotated about a rotation axis to define a tilted plane 300A of the frame. With reference to Figure 3, the tilt angle 0 may be defined as the angle between the frame datum position 301 and the tilted plane 300A of the frame. Consequently, since the frame 3 may tilt in either direction, the title angle 0 is a vector. The rotation axis is coaxial with the centre of the longitudinal bar 20 in the arrangement illustrated.

Tilt angle sensor

The tilt angle sensor 5 measures the tilt angle 0 of the frame 3. The tilt angle sensor 5 may be any of the following: rotary potentiometer, magnetic Hall Effect, rotary encoder, inductive position, gyroscopic, accelerometer, or any other suitable type. The tilt angle sensor 5 may comprise a housing which is mounted to one of the frame 3 or base 2. The tilt angle sensor 5 may be located anywhere on the frame 3 or base 2. The tilt angle sensor 5 may further comprise a mechanical linkage connected at one end to the frame 3 or base 2 and to the sensor 5 at the other, whilst the housing is mounted to the opposite of the frame 3 or base 2 to the linkage. Rotation of the frame 3 relative to the base 2 may cause the linkage to be operated and further cause the tilt angle sensor 5 to measure a different tilt angle 0. The tilt angle sensor 5 may be configured to operate within the mechanical tilt limitations of the frame 3 and base 2. The tilt angle sensor 5 may be electrically connected to the processor 7. The tilt angle sensor 5 may communicate with the processor 7 by means of a digital or analogue signal. It is to be understood that several types of tilt angle sensor 5 are suitable for use with the invention and that the previously mentioned arrangements are preferable but not essential to the disclosure.

Steering angle

The measured steering angle a is measured by a steering angle sensor 6. The steering angle a may be defined as the angle between the handlebar axis 400 and the plane 300 of the frame. The steering angle a may be defined as the angle between the handlebar axis 400 and the handlebar datum position 401. Consequently, since the handlebar may be rotated in either direction, the steering angle a is a vector.

Figure 3 illustrates the exercise bike 1 and frame datum position 301 as viewed from the front. Figure 2 further illustrates the exercise bike 1 in use where the handlebar 2 has been rotated by a steering angle a (as shown in broken line). The result of this rotation is that the handlebar axis 400 is rotated about a rotation axis to define a rotated handlebar axis 400A. With reference to Figure 2, the steering angle a may be defined as the angle between the handlebar datum position 401 and the rotated handlebar axis 400A.

Steering angle sensor

The steering angle sensor 6 measures the steering angle a of the handlebar 4. The steering angle sensor 6 may be any of the following: rotary potentiometer, magnetic Hall Effect, rotary encoder, inductive position, gyroscopic, accelerometer, or any other suitable type. The steering angle sensor 6 may comprise a housing which is mounted to one of the handlebar 4 or frame 3. The steering angle sensor 6 may be located anywhere on the handlebar 4 or frame 3. The steering angle sensor 6 may further comprise a mechanical linkage connected at one end to the handlebar 4 or frame 3 and to the sensor 6 at the other, whilst the housing is mounted to the opposite of the handlebar 4 or frame 3 to the linkage. Rotation of the handlebar 4 relative to the frame 3 may cause the linkage to be operated and further cause the steering angle sensor 6 to measure a different steering angle a. The steering angle sensor 6 may be configured to operate within the mechanical steering limitations of the handlebar 4 and frame 3. The steering angle sensor 6 may be electrically connected to the processor 7. The steering angle sensor 6 may communicate with the processor 7 by means of a digital or analogue signal. It is to be understood that several types of steering angle sensor 6 are suitable for use with the invention and that the previously mentioned arrangements are preferable but not essential to the disclosure.

Processor

The processor 7 is configured to provide an output 9 based on a combination 8 of the measured tilt angle 0 and steering angle a. The processor 7 may be a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), embedded processor, or any other suitable type. The processor 7 may be configured to perform processes for other aspects of the exercise bike 1 ; this may include processing the input to the various control buttons and levers on the handlebar 4 and providing an output to the graphic 10. The processor 7 may comprise a housing and be mounted to any one of the components comprised within the exercise bike 1 . The processor 7 may be housed within the frame 3. The processor 7 may be mechanically separate from the exercise bike 1 and connected only by an electrical and/or signal connection. The connection may be a data connection with at least one channel.

It is widely accepted that a conventional bike can be steered by turning the handlebar 4 as well as by tilting the bike in the direction of the turn. At higher speeds, a bike’s forward momentum maintains its stability. Counterintuitively, if the handlebar is turned left the bike’s upright stability is disrupted and it will actually begin to tilt to the right, and subsequently turn to the right when the rider applies right steering input to maintain the bike upright. Clearly then, a bike in the real-world could not be operated effectively with only one of steering input or tilt input and that actually a coordinated combination 8 is required to ride successfully. It is to be understood that a significant technical advantage offered by this disclosure is the combination 8 of the measured tilt angle 0 and steering angle a. The combination 8 of the tilt angle 0 and steering angle a allows the exercise bike 1 to offer a more realistic experience to the user, which is aligned with the real-world principals detailed above. What this disclosure seeks to address is the lack of utilisation of a combination 8 of inputs, which a user can perform on the previously disclosed exercise bike 1 , and outputting them together as a single output, in conjunction with the configurations below. Combination X + Y = 100

The output 9 from the processor 7 may be a combination 8 of the measured tilt angle 0 and steering angle a. The processor 7 may be configured to manipulate the measured tilt angle 0 and steering angle a before or after they are combined. A weighting may be predefined to determine a dominant value for the combination 8. A dominant value may be scaled up to make the combination 8 biased toward that value. Similarly, a weighting may be predefined to determine a less dominant value for the combination 8. A less dominant value may be scaled down to make the combination 8 less biased toward that value. The output 9 may be based on a combination 8 of proportions of each of the measured angles a and 0. The proportions may be predefined. The proportions may be represented as proportion of measured tilt angle ‘X%’ and proportion of measured steering angle ‘Y%’. X and Y may total 100. The term X + Y = 100 may be true. The terms X<100% and Y<100% may be true.

For example if the proportion of the measured tilt angle X% where to be 50% then the proportion of the measured steering angle Y% would also be 50%, from, 50 + 50 = 100.

Combination based on values measured

The combination 8 may be based on the value(s) of the measured tilt angle 0 and/or measured steering angle a. Conditions may be applied which alter the combination 8 dependent on the measured values of tilt angle 0 and steering angle a. The alterations may include summing, multiplying, exponential and/or any other suitable operations.

Proportions based on measured values

The combination 8 may be configured to bias toward one value or the other based on what one or each of those values is. For example if the steering angle a were to meet a certain condition, then the proportion of this value used in the combination 8 may be varied. Similarly, this may be applied to the tilt angle 0. The combination 8 may consist of a plurality of these conditions.

For example, if a condition such as:

‘Tilt angle 0 greater than 10° then X% = 30% otherwise, X% = 80%’ were implemented, then a measured tilt angle 0 of 12° would mean 30% of the tilt angle 0 value would be used in the combination 8. If the measured tilt angle 0 were 2° then 80% of the tilt angle 0 value would be used in the combination 8.

The output 9 may be based on a combination 8 of a proportion of each of the measured angles of tilt 0 and steering a, wherein the proportions are based on the values measured. For example, a directly proportional relationship may be adopted, wherein if the tilt angle 0 doubles, the proportion of the tilt angle 0 used in the combination 8 also doubles. This conditional configuration may be implemented with the previously mentioned X + Y = 100 configuration.

Relative Difference

The combination 8 may be based on the relative difference between the measured tilt angle 0 and steering angle a. The combination 8 may also factor in other measured or received parameters. The relative difference may be calculated by subtracting one value from the other. The relative difference may be used as part of a function to influence the combination 8. For example, the value of tilt angle 0 measured may be multiplied by the relative difference value before it is combined to produce the output 9.

Exponential

The output 9 may be based on a combination 8 of X% of the tilt angle 0 and Y% of the steering angle a. The measured tilt angle 0 and measured steering angle a may be further utilised in functions to determine the proportional values X and Y. The proportional values X and Y may be defined by the following equations wherein ‘a’, ‘b’, ‘c’ and ‘d’ are predetermined.

X = aθ ^b

Y = cα ^d

Symbols ‘a’, ‘b’, ‘c’ and ‘d’ may be constants. Symbols ‘a’, ‘b’, ‘c’ and ‘d’ may be functions which are not constant. Symbols ‘a’, ‘b’, ‘c’ and ‘d’ may be functions which further express at least one of the measured tilt angle 0 and/or the measured steering angle a. For example: a = (2α + 3), and b = 2, therefore X = (2α + 3) * θ ²

For this example 0 and a will both be measured angles of 3°, so,

X=((2 * 3) + 3) * 3 ² = 9 * 9 = 81%

This configuration is further illustrated in Figure 4 where the functions used for symbols ‘a’ and ‘b’ above, are utilised with further example functions for ‘c’ and ‘d’ to illustrate the processing of the measured tilt angle_0 and steering angle a from start to finish. Figure 4 more generally illustrates the combination 8 which is comprised in the output 9. Figure 4 illustrates that, in at least one embodiment, two signals enter the processor ?, while there is only a single output 9.

Configurable combination The processor 7 may be further configurable in use. The processor 7 may be further configurable in use such that the output 9 is configurable by the user. The processor 7 may be programmed with an algorithm which requires the measured tilt angle 0 and steering angle a. The algorithm may be of the form of any equation above. The algorithm may be further configured by the user via electronic means or any other suitable means. The algorithm may be configured by the user via an interface. The processor 7 may be configurable by the user in the sense that some/all of the symbols ‘a’, ‘b’, ‘c’ and ‘d’ as well as the proportional values X and Y can be configured to the user’s preference.

Output to graphic

The output 9 from the processor 7 may be configured for controlling a graphic 10. The output 9 may be configured to control a simulation program, video game and/or other media 10. The output 9 may be a voltage output relative to a ground. The output 9 may be a data signal. The output 9 may be via a cable such as an Ethernet cable or any other suitable cable. The output 9 may be a wireless signal transferred to a graphic 10 or alike via Bluetooth or any other suitable wireless connection means. The output 9 may be configured to interface with a program such as Zwift (RTM) and/or any other suitable program. The output 9 may be channelled to a virtual reality (VR) headset worn by the user. The VR headset may portray an environment which adapts to the output 9, providing a realistic cycling experience to the user. The medium which the output 9 is provided to may feature an avatar which reacts to actions made by the user on the exercise bike 1 . For example if the user tilts the exercise bike 1 to the left, the avatar would respond by tilting to the left.

Frame further comprising a head tube and steering stem

The frame 3 may further comprise a head tube 36 and steering stem 37. The steering stem 37 may be rotatably received in the head tube 36. The head tube 36 may be positioned toward the top of the frame 3. The head tube 36 may have a longitudinal axis which is substantially vertical when the frame 3 is in the frame datum position 301 . The steering stem 37 may have a longitudinal axis which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the head tube 36. The steering stem 37 and head tube 36 may be joined via one or more bearings. The one or more bearings may be of the tapered, roller ball, cartridge, or any other suitable type. The handlebar 4 may be mounted to the steering stem 37. The handlebar 4 may be mounted by means of a clamp with one or more bolts received in the steering stem 37. The handlebar 4 may be mounted such that the user can apply a torque to the steering stem 37 by rotating the handlebar 4. The user may apply a force to the handlebar 4 which in turn applies a torque to the steering stem 37, the handlebar 4 acting as a lever.

The arrangement of the frame 3, base 2, head tube 36, steering stem 37 and resilient mountings 38 and 39 (see below), may be as per the embodiments described in Patent No. GB2520677.

Resilient mounting of the handlebar A resilient handlebar mounting 39 may be provided between the frame 3 and handlebar 4. This resilient handlebar mounting 39 may be configured to bias the handlebar 4 toward the handlebar datum position 401 . The resilient handlebar mounting 39 may comprise a spring. The resilient handlebar mounting 39 may be formed of a polymer with elastomeric properties. The resilient handlebar mounting 39 may be mounted between the head tube 36 and steering stem 37 in some embodiments. The resilient handlebar mounting 39 may further comprise a means of adjustment of the resilient handlebar mounting 39. In use the adjustment may be configurable by a user to configure the resilient handlebar mounting 39. The resilient handlebar mounting 39 may further comprise an adjustment control which can be operated by a user when the exercise bike 1 is in use. The resilient handlebar mounting 39 may be configured to retain elastic potential energy when it is deformed, such that it can release this energy in restoring the handlebar 4 to the handlebar datum position 401 .

Removably mounted handlebar

The handlebar 4 of the exercise bike 1 may be removably mounted to the frame 3. The handlebar 4 may be mounted by a releasable means so that the user can interchange the handlebar 4. The handlebar 4 may be removably mounted in such a way that its height and reach can be adjusted to the user’s preference. The handlebar 4 may be interchangeable with various types of handlebar such as dropped, bullhorn, riser, flat, aero or BMX. The handlebar 4 mounting means may be adjustable to accommodate differing diameter handlebars. The handlebar 4 may be replaced with handlebars from a user’s road going bike, such that they can enjoy the familiarity of these on the exercise bike 1 .

Resilient mounting of the frame

A resilient frame mounting 38 may be provided between the frame 3 and base 2. This resilient frame mounting 38 may be configured to bias the frame 3 toward the frame datum position 301 . The resilient frame mounting 38 may comprise a spring. The resilient frame mounting 38 may be formed of a polymer with elastomeric properties. The resilient frame mounting 38 may further comprise a means of adjustment. In use the adjustment may be configurable by a user to configure the resilient frame mounting 38. The resilient frame mounting 38 may further comprise an adjustment control which can be operated by a user when the exercise bike 1 is in use. The resilient frame mounting 38 may be configured to retain elastic potential energy when it is deformed, such that it can release this energy in restoring the frame 3 to the frame datum position 301.

Drive mechanism and flywheel

The exercise bike 1 may further comprise a drive mechanism 60. The exercise bike 1 may further comprise a flywheel 61 . The exercise bike 1 may further comprise a drive mechanism 60 with a crank 62 and at least one pedal 63. The crank 62 may be configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the plane 300 of the frame, and the crank 62 may be positioned substantially in a plane offset from the plane 300 of the frame. A pedal 63 may be provided on each side of the frame 3, each connected to the crank 62. A chain 64 or other connecting means may link the crank 62 to the flywheel 61 . The flywheel 61 may be a wheel which builds and maintains momentum when it is spun. The flywheel 61 may be a wheel which is configured to accept resistance to motion from a brake or other resistive means. The flywheel 61 may be monitored by a tachometer or other speed sensing means. The speed sensing means may provide a data signal containing the current speed of the flywheel 61 to the processor 7. The chain 64 or other connecting means may further comprise a means for configuring the ratio between rotations of the crank 62 and rotations of the flywheel 61 , such as a gear set. The flywheel 61 may be comprised of the driving wheel of a bicycle and the drive means 60 may be the drive means of the bicycle, wherein the resistance to motion is provided by an external brake.

Sensing System

A sensing system may comprise at least one sensor. The sensing system may comprise a processor 7. The sensor(s) of the sensing system may be of the type mentioned previously. The processor 7 of the sensing system may be of the type mentioned previously. The sensor(s) of the sensing system may be configured to measure the steering angle a of a bike. The sensor(s) of the sensing system may be configured to measure the tilt angle 0 of the bike. The processor 7 of the sensing system may be configured to provide an output 9 based on a combination 8 of the steering angle a and tilt angle 0 of the bike. The combination 8 of the measured angles may be as per the combinations previously outlined. The sensor(s) and processor 7 of the sensing system may be separate components connected by at least one connection.

The sensing system may be housed as a single unit. The sensing system may be mountable to a bike handlebar 4. The sensing system may be mountable to a bike frame 3. The sensing system may be configured to mount to both the frame 3 and handlebar 4 simultaneously. The sensor(s) may be configured to detect the rotation of the handlebar 4 relative to the frame 3. The sensor(s) may be configured to detect the tilt of the frame 3 relative to the floor 50. The sensing system may comprise two distinct housings, wherein the first is mounted to the handlebar 4 and the second to the frame 3. The two distinct housings may share a central axis and when in use, the central axis may be the rotation axis of the handlebar 4 and/or the central axis of the head tube 36 of the frame 3.

The sensing system may utilise a device such as a mobile phone, which when used with an app or other suitable software and/or hardware, the device acts as the sensor(s) and processor and can perform their functions. If a user were to turn the handlebar 4 the sections of the sensing system housing may rotate independently. The difference in rotation of the housings may form the basis for a steering angle a measurement. The steering angle sensor 6 may be configured to detect the difference in rotation between the housings.

In some embodiments, the steering angle sensor 6 may include at least one strain gauge. The strain gauge(s) may be configured to connect between the handlebar 4 and frame 3 such that any rotation of the handlebar 4 relative to the frame 3 causes the strain gauge(s) to extend or contract and generate a different reading, The strain gauge(s) may be configured such that direction of rotation of the handlebar 4 is represented by an increased reading for one direction, and a decrease for the other.

If a user were to tilt the frame 3 and in doing so cause the sensing system which is directly or indirectly mounted to the frame 3 to tilt as well, the sensing system may measure a tilt angle 0. The sensor(s) of the sensing system may be a gyroscopic sensor which may be calibrated by a user, to set a frame datum position 301 about which any tilt angle 0 can be measured. The sensing system may comprise any other suitable type of sensor for the measurement of tilt angle 0.

The sensing system may further comprise a handlebar 4. The sensing system comprising a handlebar 4 may be suitable as a replacement for a conventional handlebar 4 of a bike such that the bike may gain some or all of the functionality of the improved exercise bike 1 when installed.

It is to be understood that the sensing system may take on a plurality of forms and is not limited to the given examples. Some examples include the combination of sensor(s) and processor ? connected together, as well as a handlebar assembly which is assembled with the sensor(s) and processor 7 each for use with an existing frame 3. The common features of any of the previously mentioned forms are that the sensing system may be a retro fit system for an existing bike or exercise bike, and that the result of fitting the sensing system may be to arrive at an apparatus which is improved in line with the improvements made by the exercise bike 1 over known exercise bikes.

It is to be appreciated that the sensing system may be used in combination with a user’s existing bike, in order to provide the functionality of the exercise bike 1. The arrangement may additionally provide a means of tilting and steering. The user’s existing bike may be mounted to a turbo trainer or other bicycle trainer which has the effect of making a user’s bike usable in a stationary setting. The turbo trainer may perform several of the functions of the previously mentioned base 2. The turbo trainer may offer resistance to the user’s cycling effort by means of a roller in contact with the drive wheel of the bike. The turbo trainer may be a ‘wheel-off arrangement where the drive wheel of the user’s bike is removed prior to it being fitted to the turbo trainer, and the bike’s drive mechanism directly drives the resistance system.

In addition to the turbo trainer, a means of allowing the front wheel of the user’s bike to steer when the handlebar is turned without the user needing to overcome a large amount of resistance may be provided. This may take the form of a base with a pivoting element attached that houses a portion of the front wheel of the user’s bike and allows for lower resistance steering inputs. The steering means may be a mounting which allows the front wheel of the user’s bike to steer while overall stability of the bike is maintained. Furthermore, a means of allowing the bike to tilt relative to the floor may be provided if the sensor for measuring tilt in the sensing system is to be effective in use. This may take the form of a large footprint base which may include means of attaching the user’s bike, turbo trainer and steering means. The tilting base may further provide a pivoting element that can allow the whole assembly to tilt like the frame 3 of the exercise bike 1 . The tilting base may offer tilting about only a single longitudinal axis akin to the base 2 and frame 3 mentioned previously.

The turbo trainer, steering means and tilting base elements mentioned above, may be combined in a single unit suitable for the attachment of a user’s bike and allowing tilting, steering, resistance to cycling and stability for the apparatus. Further to this, it is to be understood that various combinations of each of the elements described above are also suitable for use with a user’s bike and the sensing system.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.

Protection may be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more published documents referenced herein in combination with the present disclosure.

Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and/or to encompass equivalents.