Design of an automatic shift control system with self-learning ability for a bicycle

An automatic shift control system with self-learning ability, for a bicycle is proposed in this paper. The concept of pseudo pedaling speed is used as the shifting basis, and the pseudo pedaling speed is derived from the wheel speed read through a microcontroller. According to the pseudo pedaling speed histograms, all riders' pseudo pedaling speed histograms approach normal distribution. Hence, a straight forward algorithm of shifting using the mean and standard deviation of the riders' pseudo pedaling speed is developed. The microcontroller commands the actuators to shift up or shift down a gear with the proposed algorithm. According to the experimental results, the proposed system has been shown to function well, thus, enhancing the convenience and comfort of cycling.