A robust low cost device for measuring road induced vibrations

Authors

  • Greg Mason Seattle University
  • Mike Larson SRAM, LLC
  • Ricky Deng Seattle University
  • Dalton Reed Seattle University
  • Marie Pahlmeyer Seattle University
  • Nicholaus Wright Seattle University
  • Zu Pong Wu Seattle University
  • Jayce Yahata Seattle University

Keywords:

vibration, acceleration, cycling comfort, road surface mapping

Abstract

Road induced vibrations have been linked to cycling comfort and fatigue. Currently, vibration tests are preformed using expensive equipment which is often unsuitable for tests involving large numbers of cyclists riding in real-world conditions in inclement weather.  A robust low-cost device was developed to address this shortcoming.  The device is capable of measuring vibrations at both axles for extended periods of time.  Data collected includes vibrational information, GPS coordinates and time.  The system uses custom hardware base on readily available components, costing approximately $100 US, and a smartphone.  It weighs 130 g plus the weight of the smartphone and can collect data for over 12 hours on a single charge. The syste was validated using controlled tests with a single rider on a closed course, and on commuter bicycles in an urban setting.

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Author Biographies

Greg Mason, Seattle University

Professor

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Mike Larson, SRAM, LLC

Director of Engineering Education

Ricky Deng, Seattle University

Student Researcher

Dalton Reed, Seattle University

Student Researcher

Marie Pahlmeyer, Seattle University

Student Researcher

Nicholaus Wright, Seattle University

Student Researcher

Jayce Yahata, Seattle University

Student Researcher

Published

2016-03-17

How to Cite

Mason, G., Larson, M., Deng, R., Reed, D., Pahlmeyer, M., Wright, N., Wu, Z. P., & Yahata, J. (2016). A robust low cost device for measuring road induced vibrations. Journal of Science and Cycling, 5(1), 13-17. Retrieved from https://www.jsc-journal.com/index.php/JSC/article/view/187

Issue

Section

Original articles

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