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Int J Sports Med 1994; 15(4): 168-171
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1021041
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

The Dynamic Calibration of Cycle Ergometers

G. F. Woods1 , L. Day1 , R. T. Withers1 , A. H. Ilsley2 , B. F. Maxwell1
  • 1Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Education, The Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042
  • 2Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042
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Publication History

Publication Date:
14 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

The components of our rig, which is used for the dynamic calibration of cycle ergometers, were purchased for $ 4,080 (USA); interfacing the instrument with a computer and printer increased the cost by an additional $2,550 (USA). The rig is essentially a torque balance and was therefore validated against the primary measurements of: angular velocity (rev · min-1), distance (m) and mass (kg). Summing the inaccuracies associated with these 3 measurements yields a worst case error of only 0.3%. The coefficients of variation for a dynamic calibration rig and mechanically braked Monark cycle ergometer assembly ranged from 0.6 to 3.2% for 6 trials at each of the following power outputs: 117.7, 176.6, 235.4, 294.3 and 353.2W. The instrument therefore has a high degree of precision.

Key words

Torque balance - load cell - calibration - cycle ergometers