Optimizing Structural Strength for High-performance Bikes with IoT

Argon 18, a high-performance bike manufacturer, aimed to develop a bike that was stiffer, highly integrated, more aerodynamic, and provided greater efficiency. The challenge was to create a lightweight bike without compromising on structural strength and power. The weight of the product could be the defining difference in the competitive cycling industry. The team’s requirement was for the stiffest bike possible while getting the best aerodynamic results, as the rider would expend a huge amount of power during the track event. Making the bike more aerodynamic often results in making the shape thinner, hence the challenge was to make the frame stiff while at the same time balancing the structure‘s strength and the rigidity. An important aspect of the project was the development of a new aluminum stem to be used by Mr. Hansen in the Flying Lap event which is achieved by the fastest lap from the moving start. The stem would need to be seamlessly integrated to the bike frame, while being firmly fixed to the fork insert.

Argon 18 is a bike manufacturer founded in 1989 by retired cyclist Gervais Rioux in Montreal, Quebec. The company develops and engineers high-performance bikes using state-of-the-art technology. Argon 18 is an active sponsor of professional cycling teams and has a global distributorship in over 70 countries. Argon bikes are designed for professional riders as well as the general public seeking the best performance from their bikes to provide a superior riding experience. Argon 18 recently partnered with the ÉTS Research Chair on Engineering of Processing, Materials and Structures for Additive Manufacturing to manufacture a new track bike for Lasse Norman Hansen, one of the athletes competing for the Danish team in track cycling at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.