WO2010092356A1

WO2010092356A1 - Bicycle monitoring device

Info

Publication number: WO2010092356A1
Application number: PCT/GB2010/000264
Authority: WO
Inventors: Paul Rodgers
Original assignee: London Bicycle Company Limited
Priority date: 2009-02-14
Filing date: 2010-02-15
Publication date: 2010-08-19
Also published as: GB2469978A; GB201014887D0; GB0921518D0; GB0902491D0; WO2010092356A9; EP2429884A1; GB2469978B

Abstract

A bicycle monitoring device (1) capable of transmission of information relevant to the bicycle monitoring device's location and including an energy supply, identification means, transmission means and an antenna. The bicycle monitoring device may be incorporated into a frame (20) of a bicycle using said frame as an antenna and may additionally receive information. Communication and transmission of data on movement to relevant parties via a secure and verified system process for commercial, emergency and other purposes is performed so that an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide can be computed, for example for use in a carbon trading scheme. The bicycle monitoring device (1) may also function using solar energy.

Description

BICYCLE MONITORING DEVICE

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a bicycle monitoring device and related system. More particularly the invention includes a bicycle monitoring device, location and tracking system. The system may have applications in other pedal or human propelled vehicles.

Background of Invention

Specialist and precision engineered pedal cycles, bicycles, or bikes as they are sometimes referred to, are available. These can be very expensive and can be further customised. Professional competitive races also exist in separate disciplines of bicycle racing, from all-terrain racing or mountain biking to speed and track racing.

These professional and leisure bikes may often be very expensive. Road bikes, or off-road bikes (such as hard-tails), where only one wheel has suspension and full-suspension bikes, can retail at around the same price as motor cycles or motor scooters and typically have high residual values.

The activity of bicycle riding has great value on a global scale. ECOMOBILITY. There are advantageous environmental aspects of riding bicycles. More recently, with the focus on reduction of carbon emissions as set out in the Kyoto Agreement, bicycle, or cycle, riding is often commented upon, especially in the developed world, as a way of reducing carbon emissions and keeping fit.

As a consequence of environmental legislation it is apparent that there is increasing pressure to move personal transport away from the production of carbon dioxide, especially in most other forms of transportation. In addition to legislative pressures to adopt the use of cycles, there is also a need to monitor the whereabouts of cycles and many benefits in terms of planning, safety and leisure activities of being able to see routes taken.

Prior Art

Over time bicycle owners have attempted to prevent the loss or theft of their bicycles, providing security in many ways with many methods and devices.

These methods range from removing a wheel to fastening a lock or a chain through a frame of a bicycle or wheels to pieces of street furniture. There are obvious and clear disadvantages to removing wheels, and devices such as locks and chains are by nature cumbersome and may be overcome by a determined thief.

More recently surveillance devices, incorporating global positioning system (GPS) sensors, have been suggested.

UK Patent Application GB-A-2 419 057 (Maclennan) describes a device for locating moveable property such as bicycles using a GPS and GSM.

In published International Patent Application WO-A3-2009/010065 (CT Tracking system APS) a tracking unit is described for use with bicycles and is adapted to be fitted onto cycles.

However, the aforementioned devices and system were limited solely as tracking systems. They tended to be passive in their nature and served merely to indicate the whereabouts of bicycles.

Published International Patent Application WO-A-2009/076222 (Plus 3 Network Inc) describes a method and system for tracking various objects and provides a convertible value, such as number of kilometres cycled by a person in a race. The total distance that has been cycled is stored for the sake of training, for providing a personal record to the user or for indicating the total distance travelled, so that for example, sponsors can calculate what they are pledged to pay the cyclist.

Various other parameters may be obtained using suitable sensors, for example from the cyclist, such as heart rate, breathing rate and calories burned.

An object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle monitoring device for use with a bicycle a monitoring system, ideally being reliable, robust, lightweight and effective.

Another object of the invention arose to utilise commonly available technology to provide a means of determining location and movement of a bicycle with the object of creating a tradable commodity.

Summary of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a bicycle monitoring device, that is adapted to be carried by a bicycle, including: an energy supply for supplying energy to the device, an identification device, an antenna, and a transmitter arranged to transmit a signal indicative of the identity and location of the bicycle; a means for deriving the amount of work done, by a cyclist, when moving from a first location to a second location; and a processor configured to determine an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to the amount of work done.

The equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to the amount of work done is ideally obtained form standard tables or by empirical means based on, for example, a notional, so-called, carbon footprint of an averaged sized automobile and the amount of carbon dioxide that it would produce as a result of making an identical journey to that undertaken by the bicycle. Ideally the means for deriving the amount of work done, when moving from a first location to a second location, includes a processor that computes the vertical height travelled by the cyclist so that an amount of work done against gravity can be included in the total, thereby providing a true and accurate amount of work done.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a bicycle monitoring system for use with at least one bicycle fitted with the aforesaid monitoring device, including: receiving means that receives identification signals transmitted by said at least one bicycle; a processor for determining the total amount of work done by said at least one bicycle; means which receives a signal indicating a total distance travelled by the bicycle; a means for calculating the total amount of work done by a cyclist on said at least one bicycle; a means for deriving an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to the total amount of work done; and a database for storing data, including the identity of said at least one bicycle and the equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to the total amount of work done by said at least one bicycle.

Data indicative of the location of a bicycle is captured at a remote data handling station so as to provide information about the displacement of the bicycle from the first to the second location.

Various components of the bicycle monitoring device are able to use data relating to the rider's weight, of the mass of the bicycle, the distance travelled and the height ascended so as to derive an amount indicative of total work done. These components include an accelerometer. This data is communicated at regular intervals, wirelessly, to a remote centre. Such data may be useful in determining the distance travelled by the bicycle and thus an approximation of the work done by a rider and of the related emissions respond to that work done and so the amount of emissions saved.

Data may be utilised by a system that is used to provide a carbon equivalent to the number of kilometres. A solid state recorder may be provided on the device for recording and storing the force exerted by the cyclist on the pedals and the distance travelled; it being known that the total amount of energy is the sum of work done and distance travelled.

Once the total work done is obtained, it is a relatively straightforward matter to derive an amount of energy required to do that work. With knowledge of the total amount of energy an 'equivalent mass' of carbon dioxide that would have been produced for example by an automobile, can be computed.

This 'equivalent mass' of carbon dioxide can then either be stored or this is preferably transmitted as a data packet, with the identification code of the bicycle, (ideally in a secure or encoded forma) to a remote data handling centre. The data handling centre is ideally capable of storing and summing individual masses of carbon dioxide, for example from individuals, families, groups, clubs, societies, schools and the like, thereby generating a tradable asset.

In the following embodiments the bicycle monitoring device is ideally fitted and housed within the hollow tubular framing of a bicycle, more particularly it is hosed in the seat tubing. The term tubing is intended to also describe a similar installation in a handlebar mounting, down tube or head tube.

Lamps and other components and cabling are optionally connected with energy harvesting devices, which may be integrated in, or on, the bicycle for powering the lamps.

In other embodiments the bicycle monitoring device and related system may be fitted in the frame of the bicycle in other ways so as to be discreet and not obvious to a viewer.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a bicycle monitoring system, including: a plurality of remote sensors capable of receiving an identification signal from a bicycle monitoring device, indicative of the location of the bicycle; and a means to record changes in the location of the bicycle.

Ideally the bicycle includes an electrical generator, which in use charges one or more rechargeable cells, so that these can power a GPS locator, as well as the transmitter, the means for deriving the amount of work done when moving from a first location to a second location and a processor.

The means to record the location of the bicycle ideally includes a Global Positioning System (GPS). In addition other devices, such as imagers, readers, altimeters, radio receivers and/or transmitters may be provided so that cross-correlation of data, as well as the route the bicycle has travelled, can be performed. Thus the amount of vertical distance through which the bicycle has climbed, or descended, is also taken into account, when deriving the total amount of work done. It being understood that a greater amount of energy would have been expended, for given mass of rider and bicycle, travelling say 5 kilometres and climbing 500 metres, rather than simply cycling along a flat route for 5 kilometres.

A monitoring means is ideally also included in order to verify that a displacement of a bicycle is in fact occurring and that a false reading is not being generated, for example simply by transporting the bicycle on another vehicle, whether or not in an attempt to generate falsely an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide or to derive some form of accreditation. One way of achieving this is to include intelligent route mapping techniques so as to be able to ignore any distances travelled by the bicycle, for example whilst being transported in a train or along a motorway.

Optionally one or more user determined directions can be sent in the form of live journey planning to a user mobile telephone or Bluetooth (Trade Mark) device in a way which creates a mapping and tourism benefit. In addition the device contains a unique identification number which is stored remotely, for example on a database, and is used to communicate information from the device and to identify the device and bicycle. This may be programmable with data including the location, type of bicycle, owner, email and postal address.

The device may be configured to interact with a system or data handling centre in encrypted or security-proofed language, in order that no interference or tampering of data can occur. Automated checks may also be facilitated from the system provider or from the device, in order to maintain the security of the system and ensure the device and system are still functioning and regularly updated.

The means to record instantaneous location of the bicycle may be located in specifically designed component elements such as lights, cables, seats, seat- posts, in a frame, saddle or handle. These are designed to be discrete and not recognisably different from conventional elements and as such are positioned to be covertly located, whereby the device may not be easily located by potential thieves. However there may be provided separate or linked means of advertising the existence of the device to would-be thieves. This may include a simple label or warning sign or a light-emitting diode, linked by Bluetooth (Trade Mark) connection to a controller in the device.

In addition a linked or separate sensor may be provided on, or under, the seat which may be connected to the immobiliser. This and any other connections may be achieved using fibre-optic cabling.

In a preferred embodiment, an energy supply includes a rechargeable battery. This may be recharged by kinetic means such as a dynamo or ideally by way of a solar cell or array of photovoltaic material that is capable of converting light into electrical charge for trickle charging rechargeable batteries.

A kinetic or wind up coil type energy supply may optionally be provided in addition to the aforementioned charging devices. In the alternative, or in addition, there may be means to connect to an electricity supply in order to charge a lithium-ion cell or other rechargeable cell. In the alternative, or in addition, hydrogen powered generators, mechanical gears or pistons linked for example to the pedals, chain or sprocket, may produce electrical charge.

Preferably photovoltaic material is in the form of a flexible tape, which is optionally wound around at least a portion of the handlebars or frame of the bicycle. Ideally the tape is encapsulated within a transparent tamper-proof coating. The bicycle may be coated in the form of a solar paint composite which is applied in the same manner as a carbon frame or intensive painting process to create a totally coated frame area surface. In this way an electrical charge is generated, at least in part, by a lightweight addition that provides electrical energy for the lifespan of the constituent parts of the device.

The solar paint/cell tape may be supplied as a separate or separable item or it may be supplied in a format whereby it is already incorporated into part of a bicycle, for example handlebars or saddles may supply with photovoltaic material incorporated thereon or therein. Spray-on solar cell coating may be utilised.

The bicycle monitoring device and related system may provide or include an audible alarm. This may be an electrical device, aerosol or gas-based device. It may be a single-use and replaceable device or a multiuse device. Alternatively, or in addition to this audible alarm, a loudspeaker, radio or GPS broadcast facility is incorporated in the bicycle monitoring device.

The antenna may be defined in part, or entirely, by the bicycle frame. This may be achieved by provision of a contact between the bicycle monitoring device and the frame whereby the frame is arranged to amplify the signal for transmitting and/or adapted to amplify received signals.

Alternatively, or in addition, to the foregoing, the antenna may be formed by a connecting lead from the main body of the bicycle monitoring device to the solar cell. It is envisaged that the conductive portions of the solar cell may even form a portion of the antenna.

The bicycle monitoring device, and related system, ideally incorporate an emergency call feature, which when activated transmits as part of a distress ('SOS') signal, the location of the bicycle to a remote received, appointed party or the emergency services. Activation may be triggered remotely for example by a dispossessed owner or user.

Alternatively, or additionally, the activation may also include a means of recognition of an unauthorised user, failure to input an enable code or some other trigger, such as a sensor arranged to detect tampering or an inertia sensor capable of providing an indication of an impact or crash. Such features may be promoted by the provision of a form of key, a personal identification number (PIN) device or pad or any other physical enabler, such as a fingerprint detector available only to the authorised bicycle user.

For example a Bluetooth (Trade Mark) encoded transmitter may be provided in a user's key or in their bicycle safety helmet or their mobile telephone and configured to be recognised as a key. Or the key may be otherwise supplied in some form of separate device, so that when brought into proximity with the bicycle, the bicycle monitoring device is enabled and any related alarm system is disabled, whereupon no alarm signal is sent, because the rider is an authorised user and an encoded authorisation signal is transmitted to the bicycle monitoring device, thereby disabling it. This facility may be automatic or it may occur when the authorised user/owner inputs a code, disables the alarm or brings into close proximity the key or a disabler, such as Bluetooth (Trade Mark) transmitting key.

Preferably the remote system includes a network of satellite transmitters orbiting the earth such as the Global Positioning System (GPS).

One or more gyroscopes - which may be solid state gyroscopes - can be included as a sensor so that displacement can be measured in real time. The bicycle monitoring device may include a Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) microchip tag.

An accelerometer and odometer for computing the distance travelled and a processor determines the equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions. This may be used in combination with the 'GPS' so that the location and displacement from one location to another, of the bicycle, is directly derived from the 'GPS' system. As mentioned above by, additionally taking into account the vertical height through which the bicycle moves, so as derive data indicative of total work done, a calculation of equivalent energy required and subsequently an indication of equivalent carbon emissions that have been saved can all be obtained.

In order to enable the total equivalent carbon dioxide to be computed accurately, a means is ideally available to input the mass of the rider and bicycle. This may be in the form of keypad or may be carried out automatically by way of a sensor - such as a strain gauge - arranged to sense the mass of the rider.

The provision and possession of the bicycle monitoring device and related system therefore allows for a method of determining equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to a bicycle journey, which comprises the steps of: determining the distance travelled by a bicycle, determining the force required by a user to move the bicycle through that distance, calculating the total amount of work done and computing an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions.

In this way the bicycle monitoring device may form part of a carbon-trading economic scheme. These sort of trading schemes relate to carbon dioxide or other carbon pollutant levels produced, and may be based on the equivalent carbon dioxide emissions or a cash value of these based on a daily rate of one tonne of carbon dioxide emissions, for example as quoted on carbon emission trading scheme or exchange. Ideally the bicycle monitoring device includes an immobiliser and an anti- tamper device. The immobiliser may cooperate with brakes, chain, gears, and pedals or otherwise critically affect the ability of the bicycle to be ridden or moved. The immobiliser may be activated in a default position, thereby determining that a key to deactivate the immobiliser must be used to be able to use the bicycle. Such a key may be provided or integrated in a bicycle helmet, pump, bicycle clip, lamp or other accessory removable from the bicycle.

In addition linked or removable sensors may be provided on other removable parts or under the seat which may be connected to the immobiliser, in this way the whole bicycle and all its parts are protected. This may provide the facility to differentiate sensor input. This can include infrared, nano mirror and other virtual imaging technology to provide data which is stored and can create images of key events, journey points, live and 'upon request' images, based on the digital data transmitted with location and the manipulation and adaptation of this data to create enhanced images.

The anti-tamper device may in one embodiment comprise a locking or single- direction screw fitting, or simply involve the bicycle monitoring device being hidden from view.

In a particularly preferred embodiment after the bicycle monitoring device is inserted into a frame, locking arms or struts extend and prevent movement in a return direction. Such locking arms may provide in addition an antenna, and/or provide a contact with the frame in order to use the frame as an antenna. The antenna and sensors may also be designed into reflectors and lights which become part of the whole system.

In a yet further embodiment the bicycle monitoring device is protected by locks, which may include deadlocks independently contained in the pedal barrel section and wheel sections of the frame of a bicycle. These deadlocks can be digitally activated and adapted to prevent the theft of bicycle parts such as the seat or handlebars. The bicycle monitoring device per se, is inserted into the frame below a lockable member.

In some jurisdictions the bicycle frame could be arranged to emit a low level signal similar to live wire electric fences, so that attempting to remove the bicycle, without a suitable authorisation code, would give rise to an unpleasant, though not fatal electric shock. Such an arrangement may be accompanied with a warning notice.

In further embodiments the constituent parts of the bicycle monitoring device are constructed or inserted or prefabricated into the frame at manufacture or before sale. In this manner the bicycle monitoring device may be in part or in whole integral to the frame and tamper-proof.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the Figures in which:

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows a cross-section detail view of the bicycle monitoring device installed in a bicycle frame;

Figure 2 shows an internal diagrammatic view of the bicycle monitoring device;

Figure 3 shows an overall view of a bicycle and rider;

Figure 4 shows an overall view of a bicycle and bicycle monitoring device shown in detail in Figure 1;

Figure 5 shows a detail view of an embodiment inserted into a frame; Figure 6 illustrates a bicycle monitoring system, including: a plurality of bicycles and a base station to record changes in the location of the bicycles; and

Figure 7 is a functional block diagram illustrating high level processes of the operation of the device.

Detailed Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a bicycle monitoring device 1 that can be inserted into the tubing of a bicycle frame 20. Device 1 is shown inserted into the saddle support area or seat tube 21 of the frame 20. In use the bicycle monitoring device 1 is pushed into the frame 20 by the insertion of a saddle post or handlebars 23 into the seat tube 21. The bicycle monitoring device 1 is preferably encased in a shockproof and waterproof casing. This may include rubber and/or hermetically sealed industrial grade aluminium.

The bicycle monitoring device 1 is equipped with arms 3. These arms 3 are sprung with resiliently deformable members 4, so that the arms 3 are urged together towards the bicycle monitoring device 1 , in order to permit insertion of the bicycle monitoring device 1 into the frame. The arms 3 may further be forced together by post 23.

When the bicycle monitoring device 1 is forced into the frame, so that catches 7 engage with the frame interior 24. In this manner an electrical connection may be made for antenna purposes. In addition the arm catches 7 are disposed to prevent the return movement of the bicycle monitoring device 1 and to prevent tampering and removal of the bicycle monitoring device 1 from the frame. To achieve this, the catches 7 may have toothed roughened or corrugated ends that hamper movement against them.

The bicycle monitoring device 1 is fitted with a rechargeable energy supply such as a battery. A recharger may comprise solar cells, in the form of a flexible tape 8 which may be in self-adhesive form and which in use is bound around the cross-bar, cross-member or top tube 22 of the frame 20.

The solar cell tape comprises amorphous solar cells. An amorphous solar cell is a type of solar cell 8 that is relatively cheap to produce and widely available. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 a wire connection 6 connects the rechargeable cell, housed within the main body of the bicycle monitoring device 1 to the solar cell 8. The wire does not interfere with the insertion of the post 23. To this end the wire is contained in a reel 5. This prevents unsightly or dangerous trailing of wire and additionally allows the body of the bicycle monitoring device 1 to travel within the frame 20, for example on adjustment of the seat height. The wire 6 and/or the solar cell tape 8 may also act as an antenna.

Solar cells 8 may be of an alternative type and dimensions that permit mounting on the bicycle, such as a long flat panel clipped to the top post. In all embodiments a diode may be provided for preventing the battery discharging when the panel is not providing energy, such as in low sunlight conditions or in the dark.

The bicycle monitoring 1 device may also have a motion detection feature. This may be used in combination with a power conserving mode on the bicycle monitoring device.

The bicycle monitoring device 1 is further provided with a loudspeaker 10 that is used to sound an audible alarm. This may be amplified by the interior of the frame 24. The bicycle monitoring device may be triggered remotely. In such an embodiment the antenna may also be used for receiving signals.

In other embodiments an emergency or an 'SOS' button is provided for activating the bicycle monitoring device and/or location. This may be mounted remotely on the bicycle frame or on a separate device. In the alternative the bicycle monitoring device 1 activates the bicycle monitoring device in the absence of a deactivation prompt. This may comprise activation after a certain period or amount of movement in the absence of a deactivation prompt or signal. Said signal may be provided by an electronic key. Said key may be installed in a safety helmet or other item typically carried by an owner, user or rider.

The embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 5 include at least one aperture 9 through which such a signal may be read. Alternatively the wire 6, tape 8, frame 20 or other portion forming the antenna, receives the signal to the bicycle monitoring device 1. The hole(s) 9 may be drilled by the bicycle owner or bicycle monitoring device installer. The bicycle monitoring device 1 may include an infra-red or other short-range receiver for receiving such a signal.

A separate antenna may be provided in the form of a small helix antenna mounted designed for high performance 'GPS' applications. Such an antenna may in particular be necessary for carbon fibre bicycles.

Figure 4 shows an overall view of the embodiment of Figure 1 as installed in the bicycle with the circled portion demonstrating the area shown in more detail in Figure 1.

Figure 2 shows an internal view of the components comprising an embodiment of the bicycle monitoring device. The device is enclosed in shock proof casing 16 which typically includes a strong outer casing, for example formed from aluminium and a waterproof outer casing, for example formed from rubber. The contact to the antenna is shown at 15 with an amplifier 11 ; a GPS device 12; alarm/sensor 13; and power supply 14.

Figure 3 shows a bicycle 100 and rider 33 after the rider 33 has fallen off the bicycle 100. In this eventuality the device 1 is configured to transmit automatically an 'SOS' signal, optionally using the frame as an antenna to transmit the signal. This may be after a dismounted rider 33 has pressed a button on the frame / alarm. In the alternative, or in addition, a text message may be sent. This message may be sent via the Short Messaging System (SMS).

An accelerometer (not shown) is incorporated which, together with other sensors and control logic are collectively arranged to determine whether an impact or collision or similar event have occurred and to transmit the 'SOS¹ signal automatically. An advantage with this embodiment is that in the event of a crash, where the rider is potentially injured or knocked unconscious, an automatic distress signal is transmitted, indicating the identity of the frame/rider, its location and an indication of the intensity of an impact force which caused the injury.

A manual override may be incorporated in the bicycle so that a false alarm, that may be inadvertently sent, can be cancelled.

The system can also be used in a coordinated fashion to assist mass evacuation in the event of company or national emergency situations such as floods, attacks, closure of public transport systems etc. The system enables signals to be sent to individual devices and the use of sounds and light controls to guide the bicycle and cyclists to a predetermined and safe environment; and to register the arrival at the safe environment of individual devices. This facet utilises the capabilities of EU 811 and other emergency transmission methods.

Further, the various detector components on the device can be used to create an area wide map record of any detected environmental pollutants, gases and report these in the form of a cloud map across an area similar to an ordinance survey or weather report. This can be communicated and recorded real time and live data.

In further embodiments the bicycle monitoring device 1 is set into a frame 20 during manufacture or before sale. In Figure 5 an embodiment of the bicycle monitoring device 1 is shown inset into the top tube 22. In this manner the bicycle monitoring device is less liable to tampering and may additionally provide one or more features such as a screen to monitor location, distance and progress and other variables and information, or an interface, or an input alarm for a key, or a camera or video-camera.

Connectivity and compatibility with other devices, such as via Bluetooth (Trade Mark) or Universal Serial Bus (USB) may also be supported. In addition broadband internet connectivity may be provided as supplied by mobile telephony services. This may require the insertion of a subscriber identity module (SIM) card in order for the device to function which may enable the device to work as a mobile telephone, and give access to address book features and other storage features.

Alternatively or in addition a mobile telephone may be linked or linkable to the device. Ideally this would be via Bluetooth (Trade Mark) or a docking port.

The identification device may include at least one microchip on which are located: a microprocessor, memory and onboard software. Connectivity permits the provision of updating software. A key (not shown) is provided in a connectable format, such as a USB device, or Bluetooth (Trade Mark) device, on which data can be stored and/or for identification purposes. In addition either or all of the components may be connected via a universal serial bus (USB) thereby allowing variation and future proof compatibility. USB input may be used to provide audio or video output through MP3 or equivalent file types.

Connectivity further provides the possibility of a larger screen for navigational purposes. Said screen may be mounted on, or demountable from, the handlebars of the bicycle. The GPS facility when combined with the screen allows for the provision of real-time mapping and navigational aids.

The energy supply includes a very long life rechargeable lithium-ion or alkaline batteries. An alternative embodiment may operate using fuel cells - such as nickel hydrogen batteries. The energy supply can also include dead lock brake which is an energy harvesting system that derives energy from a dynamic brake system which is optionally lockable

In a preferred embodiment an on-board computer monitors total distance travelled and work done and computes a carbon emission equivalent, as well as optionally an equivalent calorific burn. This information, as has been mentioned above, may be used as part of a carbon trading scheme. The manner in which the equivalent carbon dioxide can be reported, verified and if accurate, traded is either a remote storage centre 120, 130 or a local data store that is included in the device or removable therefrom.

Figure 6 illustrates a bicycle monitoring system, including: a plurality of bicycles 100a - 100d, a receiving station 105 in communication with a base station 130 to record changes in the form of a log 120 of the location of the bicycles 100. This is seen as a series of intermittent transmissions of the unique identity number (ID#) of each bicycle that is transmitted to the base station.

A data storage facility, in the form of a log 120 records individual distances travelled by bicycles and optionally computes and stores a record of cumulative amount of equivalent mass of carbon dioxide. Records can be obtained for many bicycles, either as individuals or groups and these values may be stored for trading purposes or in order to update users of their carbon credits, for example by way of mobile telephone short messaging service (SMS) or text.

To ensure that the carbon trading scheme is effective the data storage facility 130 monitors data received from each bicycle 100, creates an account and stores the data in the log 120.

Alternatively this may be internally monitored by the device. In either case the data provided by for example the movement sensor, or the sensor registering movement of the pedals, or chain or wheels, must supply data that corresponds with another sensor, for example indicating the GPS position. In this way accurate registration of movement with relation to the trading of carbon may be calculated.

Referring briefly to Figure 7 a monitoring device 700 is shown in block form and comprises a rechargeable lithium-ion battery 70, which is adapted to receive charge from a lithium ion interface 72, from a mains charger 760, an array of solar cells 78 or dynamo 780. Battery 70 supplies power supply unit 73 which in turn supplies current to a micro-processor 792 and an accelerometer 794. Accelerometer 794 is ideally a solid state gyroscope. There may be a back-up gyroscope provided in the vent that accelerometer fails. Position locators 790 in the form of 'GSM' and/or 'GPS' transponders are provided with antenna 799.

In operation the accelerometer transmits signals to the microprocessor 792 which updates an on-board data store in conjunction with signals received from the position locator 790. The microprocessor 792 then performs an integrating function of the work done over a given time interval, which is the product of force x distance travelled. An indication of the work done takes into account the total mass of the bicycle and the rider, as well as the vertical height travelled by the bicycle.

Data stored on the on board data store is transmitted at suitable intervals, as low bit rate data, such as in 'SMS' format to a base station 130 via a telecommunication network 105. At the base station a users record is updated and a central record of total work done is compiled and stored on a database 135.

Central records can be collated and used to compute a carbon dioxide equivalent value. These values may be traded or sent as credits to the owners of the bicycles.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. In particular, developments in nano-technology may provide improvements.

Furthermore the antenna can be incorporated into a solar film and/or gear/brake cables on the bicycle. In addition the device can be rendered as a permanent fixture to the cycle - thereby preventing malicious removal - by a welded-in mesh of a metallic material.

In a yet further alternative the converse of this can also apply in that if the device were fitted in a transport method which is not environmentally sustainable, a debit could be made if the device were installed in cars, trucks or other vehicles so as to derive a negative credit, in effect for the amount of carbon dioxide that has been generated as a result of a journey. This could assist in further reducing emissions and in accurate mileage based road pricing.

Claims

1. A bicycle monitoring device, that is adapted to be carried by a bicycle includes: an energy supply for supplying energy to the device, an identification device, an antenna, and a transmitter arranged to transmit a signal indicative of the identity and location of the bicycle; a means for deriving the total amount of work done, by a cyclist, when moving from a first location to a second location; and a processor configured to determine an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to the total amount of work done.

2. A bicycle monitoring device according to claim 1 includes a processor that computes the vertical height travelled by the cyclist.

3. A bicycle monitoring device according to claim 1 or 2 is adapted to be installed into a frame of a bicycle

4. A bicycle monitoring device according to any of claims 1 to 3 includes an odometer.

5. A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim wherein the energy supply includes a rechargeable battery.

6. A bicycle monitoring device according to claim 5 wherein a solar cell is connected to the energy supply.

7. A bicycle monitoring device according to claim 6 wherein the solar cell is in the form of a flexible tape, which in use is wound around at least a portion of the frame of the bicycle.

8. A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim has an audible alarm.

9. A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim wherein the device is capable of receiving radio frequency signals.

10. A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim has an emergency call which when activated transmits a distress call and the location of the bicycle.

11. A bicycle monitoring device according to claim 10 includes an imager and means for transmitting an image to a remote location.

12. A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim includes an immobiliser.

13.A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim includes an anti-tamper device.

14. A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim wherein the bicycle monitoring device is permanently attached to the frame of the bicycle.

15.A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim including a screen for displaying data.

16. A bicycle monitoring device according to claim 15 wherein the screen is connected to the bicycle monitoring device.

17. A bicycle monitoring device according to any preceding claim including a strain gauge that calculates the weight of the cyclist and supplies this data to the processor.

18. A bicycle monitoring device according to claim 17 wherein the strain gauge is located in the saddle.

19.A bicycle monitoring system for use with at least one bicycle fitted with the device, according to any of claims 1 to 19, includes: receiving means that receives identification signals transmitted by said at least one bicycle; a processor for determining the total amount of work done by said at least one bicycle; means which receives a signal indicating a total distance travelled by the bicycle; a means for calculating the total amount of work done by a cyclist on said at least one bicycle; a means for deriving an equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to the total amount of work done; and a database for storing data, including the identity of said at least one bicycle and the equivalent mass of carbon dioxide emissions corresponding to the total amount of work done by said at least one bicycle.

20. A system according to claim 19 wherein the location of the bicycle is derived from a global positioning system (GPS) which takes into account the vertical height through which the bicycle moves.

21. A bicycle monitoring device substantially as herein described with reference to the Figures.

22.A system substantially as herein described with reference to the Figures.