Electronic training wheels: An automated cycling track stand

Abstract

A track stand is the act of balancing a bicycle while stationary, an inherently hard technique to perform. Several devices exist that provide lateral stabilisation of a bicycle, though few are designed to assist a rider. In this paper the design and derivation of dynamics are detailed for a Single Gimbal Control Moment Gyroscope (SGCMG) retrofitted to an adult-sized bicycle. A linear control system is designed with corresponding simulations of the modelled system. Linear theory shows that a minimum rotor momentum is required for stabilisation. The physical system is described with results showing the rider track stand time has significantly increased with the SGCMG.