Interview with Constantine Pilapil, OEM Custom Sensor Engineer

Meet Constantine Pilapil, an OEM Custom Sensor Engineer and passionate mountain e-bike enthusiast. In this exclusive interview, we dive into the integration of strain gauges in e-bike pedals and cranksets. Constantine highlights how these gauges, measuring force and torsion, enhance pedal assist systems in real-time, providing a seamless, tailored riding experience.

Strain gauges not only boost functionality but also monitor performance and improve e-bike capabilities. Cyclists can track their effort, optimize training, and fine-tune the electric assist system. These sensors may also detect and manage cargo loads, enhancing safety.

The integration of electronics, including power meters, further refines data collection and analysis. Riders benefit from customizable settings and battery health monitoring.

Manufacturers gain advantages such as optimized frames and simplified production, ultimately elevating the user experience. Join us in this insightful conversation at the intersection of engineering and e-biking.

1. How do strain gauges integrated into e-bike pedals or cranksets enhance the functionality of pedal assist systems and system accuracy?

Strain gauges integrated into e-bike pedals or cranksets play a central role in enhancing the functionality of pedal assist systems and system accuracy. These gauges are sensitive strain sensors affixed to the surface of pedals or cranksets and are designed to measure the force or torsion exerted by the cyclist. This real-time measurement is crucial as it enables the e-bike's electric assist system to adjust instantaneously based on the cyclist's effort, resulting in a seamless and intuitive riding experience.

In practical terms, strain gauges act as the "eyes and ears" for the e-bike. They inform the system about the rider's effort, and based on this measurement, the system adjusts the amount of electric power delivered by the motor. For instance, when the cyclist pedals harder uphill, the strain gauges detect the increased torsion on the pedals and relay this data to the system, which responds by providing more electric power to assist the cyclist in climbing the hill more easily. Conversely, when the cyclist reduces their effort, the system decreases the electric power output to conserve the battery. This dynamic interaction between the cyclist and the electric assist system is made possible through the use of strain gauges.

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2. How can strain gauges be used to monitor performance, training, and improve e-bike functionality?

Strain gauges have utility beyond electric assistance; they also enable cyclists to monitor their performance, train more effectively, and enhance e-bike functionality. Here's how:

• Performance Monitoring: Strain gauges provide real-time data on the power applied to the pedals by the cyclist. This data allows cyclists to track their effort level, measure their power output, and monitor their progress over time. This is particularly useful for cyclists aiming to achieve specific performance goals.
• Targeted Training: Thanks to strain gauges, cyclists can engage in more targeted training by adjusting their effort to match specific training zones. For example, a cyclist can target a certain percentage of their maximum power during a training session. Strain gauges enable them to maintain this effort consistently, optimizing training sessions.
• Enhancing E-bike Functionality: The data from strain gauges can also be used to improve e-bike functionality. By understanding how cyclists use electric and muscular power in tandem, e-bike designers can fine-tune the settings of the electric assist system for an even smoother and more efficient riding experience.

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3. What role do strain gauges play in detecting and managing the load or weight carried by an e-bike, and how does it impact rider performance and experience?

Strain gauges can potentially play a role in detecting and managing the load or weight carried by an e-bike, especially in the case of e-bikes designed for cargo transport. By carefully analyzing strain data, it is possible to determine the weight and distribution of the load on the e-bike. This information can be used to adjust the electric motor's output, ensuring stability, performance, and safety under varying load conditions.

Imagine an e-bike used for deliveries carrying packages. Strain gauges integrated into the pedals or crankset can monitor the load in real-time and ensure that the electric assist system provides the necessary power to maintain the bike's stability and facilitate deliveries. This improves the rider's experience by ensuring safer and more efficient riding, even with heavy loads.

Read the rest of this interview on our website: Integration of strain gauges in e-bike pedals and cranksets - HBK (hbkworld.com)