Prologo has expanded its “Myown” suit of “fit” tools with an innovative system that relies on textile sensors to accurately measure and map saddle pressure exerted by the rider, allowing “fitters” to select the ideal model of saddle in a matter of minutes.
In collaboration with the Bioengineering group of the “E. Piaggio” Research Center and Department of Information Engineering Bio – engineering research center of the University of Pisa, the Italian brand has developed a combination of Hardware and Software that can simplify and revolutionize the choice of the saddle and its position.
A simple, space-saving wireless sensor mat that can be placed directly on the saddle mounted on the client’s bike. By having the athlete pedal on the rollers, the sensors transmit the forces exerted on the saddle in real time, reporting the distribution of pressure and its peaks. From there, the data will immediately reveal whether the saddle shape and position are correct for the rider’s characteristics.
How do the hardware and software work?
The sensor mat is a simple fabric with +50 pressure sensors placed along the entire surface of the saddle, which have the ability to measure even the slightest changes in pressure, transmitting the data to the system that will create real-time 2D and 3D tracking of the saddle and the forces exerted on it. For maximum accuracy, all models and shapes of Prologo saddles are pre-saved, allowing the sensors to better match the model being used. For example, if a model with an exhaust channel is used, the center sensors will turn off, simulating the channel operation. If a saddle is 134mm wide the sensors positioned at 156mm will automatically turn off so as not to affect the result.
Afterwards, data can be transmitted to either mobile or desktop, creating storing a personal file that will always be searchable. Moreover, since the mat is wireless, the test can be done either indoors or outdoors.
There are two different types of sessions that can be carried out: Free trial and guided trial. In the former, data are recorded freely, for as long as desired and without any instructions. In the guided trial, instructions are given on how to position oneself (hands down on the handlebars, hands in high grip, aerodynamic position…) and well-defined time intervals, thus helping the user to acquire the correct data in different pedaling situations/positions. By analyzing the data, the fitter can then determine the optimal width, length and positioning of the saddle.
An archive always available
Once the session is over, a report of the most salient data is automatically generated. The personal record will be easily searchable and comparable with new sessions, so different saddles, different placements, etc. can be compared with each other to find the ideal setting.
The analysis process and the “Myown” suit of tools
Thanks to the combination of the “Myown perfect saddle” cube and the innovative ” Myown pressure map” mat, within minutes the athlete will find the ideal saddle for him and his position.
It starts by using Prologo’s famous cube, the “Myown Perfect Saddle,” which has been in the best stores and fitters for years to understand the athlete’s anthropometric measurements and his level/discipline. Once the athlete’s discipline and experience level are entered, we then move on to measuring the ischial bones by simply sitting on the cube with gel insert. This measurement will be helpful in figuring out the final width.
The rotation of the pelvis is then assessed to choose the shape of the saddle: round, half-round or flat.
Finally, the BMI, body mass index, is calculated in order to understand the forces that can be exerted on the saddle. By entering this data, the software will be able to figure out the best alternatives for the athlete’s style and characteristics.
Lastly, the “Myown pressure Map” that will provide the ideal chose of saddle, as well as its optimal positioning (fore/aft) on the bike.
Prologo
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