Improving the efficiency of the most efficient mode of transportation

Specialized

Mentors:  Adrian Lew (Stanford), Justin Tucker (Specialized), Brenton Haven (Specialized)

Goal:

Develop a model for analyzing metabolic efficiency and power output of a simulated bicycle rider through OpenSim to optimize saddle height and position.

Problem:

The bicycle is the most energy efficient mode of human transportation. Even with that distinction, there is room for improvement. Significant work has been done to quantify metabolic efficiency changes resulting from relative human to bicycle fit changes. This type of testing works well for final validation but is time prohibitive to scan large design spaces or optimize across populations rather than individuals. As we search for optimal solutions it is critical to leverage simulation techniques to quickly quantify improvements for individuals and populations.