Bicycle capable of freely switching electrified power assisting modes

By designing a detachable motor module connected to the frame in the electric-assist bicycle and using structures such as magnetic couplings, the problem of unstable motor-bicycle connection is solved, enabling flexible switching between the motor and transmission components, and improving riding safety and convenience.

CN223533628UActive Publication Date: 2025-11-11BEIJING ROYALBABY BAIQI CHILDRENS ARTICLES
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422410731.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-09-30
Publication Date
2025-11-11
Estimated Expiration
2034-09-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing electric-assist bicycles, the motor output shaft is completely separated from the bicycle's bottom bracket, resulting in numerous assembly wiring harnesses and structural instability, posing safety hazards and making it difficult to achieve an effective connection between the motor and the bicycle.

Method used

Design a bicycle that can freely switch between electric assist modes. The motor module is detachably connected to the frame and is located inside or outside the frame's tubing. It is connected to the pedal assembly and wheels through a transmission component. A magnetic coupling, clutch, and other structures are used to achieve flexible switching between the motor and the transmission component, ensuring a smooth transition between human and electric assistance.

Benefits of technology

It improves the ease of use and safety of bicycles, with a more compact structure, reduces potential safety hazards, and enhances the riding experience and safety.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of electric power-assisted bicycles, in particular to a bicycle capable of freely switching electrified power-assisted modes, which comprises a frame, wheels, a transmission assembly, a motor module and a pedal assembly, the motor module is detachably connected with the frame and drives the wheels to rotate through the transmission assembly. According to the bicycle, flexible mounting and dismounting of the motor module are achieved, the use convenience and the maintenance efficiency of the bicycle are improved, the riding efficiency and the power performance are improved through a reasonable power transmission structure, and the use convenience and the safety of the bicycle are improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electric-assisted bicycles, and more particularly to a bicycle with freely switchable electric-assisted modes. Background Technology

[0002] Ebikes, or electric-assisted bicycles, are a new type of transportation that combines human power with electric power, based on traditional bicycles and equipped with batteries, motors, and electronic control systems. In recent years, with increasing global attention to environmental protection and health, and the growing severity of urban traffic congestion, ebikes have gained widespread attention for their green and healthy mode of transportation, gradually becoming a popular choice. They not only reduce the burden on riders but also improve travel efficiency, and their future development prospects are very promising. Existing ebikes typically use a combination of an electric motor and pedals to provide auxiliary power to the rider. Common solutions include: the electric motor is directly integrated into the wheel hub, driving the wheel rotation directly; or the electric motor is mounted near the bicycle's bottom bracket, transmitting power to the wheels via chains or belts, making riding easier and less strenuous. Additionally, some designs mount the electric motor in other locations on the bicycle and transmit electrical energy or power to the wheels via cables or transmission devices. However, in existing ebikes, the motor output shaft is completely separated from the bicycle's bottom bracket. This design requires special frame design, resulting in numerous wiring harnesses, structural instability, and potential safety hazards. Therefore, how to effectively combine the motor and the bicycle while ensuring riding safety has become an urgent technical problem to be solved. Utility Model Content

[0003] To improve safety and convenience when switching between ebike and bicycle modes, this application provides a bicycle that can freely switch between electric assist modes.

[0004] The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode provided in this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] A bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode includes: a frame, wheels, a transmission assembly, a motor module, and a pedal assembly; the wheels are disposed at corresponding positions on the frame; the transmission assembly is also disposed on the frame, the transmission assembly being tractively connected to the wheels, and the pedal assembly and the motor module are also disposed on the transmission assembly, the pedal assembly or the motor module being used to drive the transmission assembly to rotate and drive the wheels to rotate; the motor module is detachably connected to the frame.

[0006] By adopting the above technical solution, when the user steps on the pedal assembly, the pedal assembly drives the transmission assembly to rotate, which in turn drives the wheels to rotate, thus propelling the bicycle forward. Simultaneously, when the user needs assistance, the motor module can be activated. The motor module provides additional power to the wheels through the transmission assembly, thereby assisting the user in riding. The detachable connection between the motor module and the frame allows for easy installation and removal of the motor module, facilitating maintenance and replacement, and improving the bicycle's usability and safety.

[0007] Preferably, the motor module is disposed inside or outside the tubes of the frame, and the tubes are any one or more of the riser tube, downtube, and rear chainstay tube.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solution, the motor module is placed in any one or more positions of the seat tube, down tube, or rear chainstay tube of the frame, so that the motor module and the frame are integrated, reducing the additional wiring harness layout, making the structure more stable and reliable, and improving driving safety. At the same time, this design makes the overall structure more compact when the electric bicycle is converted into ordinary bicycle mode, making it convenient to carry and store.

[0009] Preferably, the motor module includes a power output structure; the transmission assembly includes a bottom bracket, a hub, and a transmission component; the bottom bracket is connected to the power output structure or pedal assembly of the motor module, the hub is connected to the wheel, and the transmission component is used to transmit power between the bottom bracket and the hub.

[0010] By adopting the above technical solution, the power output structure of the motor module is connected to the bottom bracket, and the transmission component transmits power between the bottom bracket and the hub, realizing the effective cooperation between the motor and the transmission components, improving the power transmission efficiency, and making the riding process smoother.

[0011] Preferably, the motor module includes a battery, a motor, and a control chip, and the battery, motor, and control chip are fixedly packaged.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, the battery, motor, and control chip are fixedly packaged in the motor module, which allows the motor module to be detachably connected to the frame as a whole. This simplifies the Ebike assembly process, improves the stability and safety of the overall structure, and facilitates later maintenance and replacement. At the same time, the fixed packaging design reduces the complexity of the wiring harness, making the internal structure of the frame simpler and reducing potential safety hazards.

[0013] Preferably, the power output structure of the motor extends out from the fixed package of the motor module, and the power output structure is driven to connect with the central shaft or a structure disposed on the central shaft.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, the power output structure of the motor can directly pass through the fixed package and the central shaft or the structure set on the central shaft to achieve drive connection, which simplifies the connection structure between the motor and the transmission components, improves the assembly efficiency and the stability of the overall structure, and reduces potential safety hazards.

[0015] Preferably, when the transmission component is a chain, the central shaft also includes a chainring fixed relative to the central shaft and a first gear coaxially arranged, and the power output structure is also connected to a second gear through a magnetic coupling or clutch, the second gear being fixed on the frame and cooperating with the first gear.

[0016] By adopting the above technical solution, when the transmission component is a chain, a chainring and a first gear are fixed to the bottom bracket. The power output structure is connected to a second gear fixed to the frame via a magnetic coupling or clutch, allowing the second gear to engage with the first gear. This enables a smooth switching and combination of motor-assisted power and manual pedaling power, improving the riding experience and enhancing the system's stability and reliability. Simultaneously, the magnetic coupling or clutch can control the connection or disconnection of the second gear from the motor. When the motor is used as the power source, the magnetic coupling connects the second gear to the motor output shaft, driving the second gear to rotate for electric drive. When pedal drive is used, the magnetic coupling or clutch disconnects the second gear from the motor output shaft, allowing for flexible switching between the motor and transmission system, further enhancing safety.

[0017] Preferably, when the transmission component is a chain, the frame also includes a sprocket that matches the chainring, and the power output structure is also connected to the sprocket via a magnetic coupling or a clutch.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solution, when the transmission component is a chain, a sprocket matching the chainring is added to the frame, and the power output structure is connected to the sprocket through a magnetic coupling or clutch, realizing flexible switching between the motor and the transmission system, improving the stability and power transmission efficiency during riding.

[0019] Preferably, when the transmission component is a chain, the central shaft also includes a chainring fixed relative to the central shaft and a first gear coaxially arranged, and the power output structure is also connected to a second gear through a ratchet and pawl structure, the second gear being fixed on the frame and cooperating with the first gear.

[0020] By adopting the above technical solution, when the transmission component is a chain, a chainring fixed relative to the bottom bracket and a first gear coaxially set are added to the bottom bracket. The power output structure is connected to the second gear fixed on the frame through a ratchet and pawl structure, so that the second gear cooperates with the first gear. This enables flexible switching of power between the motor module and the pedal assembly in the transmission component, improves the conversion efficiency between electric power assist and manual drive, and enhances the stability and convenience during riding.

[0021] Preferably, when the transmission component is a chain, the central shaft also includes a chainring fixed relative to the central shaft and a first gear coaxially arranged. The power output structure also cooperates with the first gear through a sliding gear pair. The sliding gear pair is matched with the first gear and the motor respectively in a sliding limit state. The sliding gear pair is arranged on the frame.

[0022] By adopting the above technical solution, when the transmission component is a chain, the chainring and the first gear on the central shaft engage with the power output structure through a sliding gear pair. The sliding gear pair can match the first gear and the motor respectively under sliding limit conditions, enabling switching between Ebike and bicycle modes, thus improving the flexibility and reliability of the device.

[0023] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects:

[0024] 1. When the user presses the pedal assembly, the pedal assembly drives the transmission assembly to rotate, which in turn rotates the wheels, propelling the bicycle forward. Simultaneously, when the user needs assistance, the motor module can be activated. The motor module provides additional power to the wheels through the transmission assembly, thus assisting the user in riding. The detachable connection between the motor module and the frame allows for easy installation and removal of the motor module, facilitating maintenance and replacement, and improving the bicycle's usability and safety.

[0025] 2. By placing the motor module inside or outside the frame tubing, the problem of the motor output shaft being completely separated from the bicycle bottom bracket is avoided, improving the compactness of the structure and enhancing the overall rigidity and safety of the frame.

[0026] 3. The power output structure works with the bottom bracket or frame structure through different connection methods (such as magnetic couplings or clutches) to ensure flexible switching and smooth transition between human and electric assistance, improving the riding experience while enhancing riding safety and comfort. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a bicycle structure that can freely switch between electric assist modes, as described in this application.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the motor module and transmission components. Figure 1 .

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the motor module and transmission components. Figure 2 .

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the motor module and transmission components. Figure 3 .

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the motor module and transmission components. Figure 4 .

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure of the motor module and transmission components. Figure 5 .

[0033] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Bicycle; 11. Frame; 111. Stem tube; 112. Down tube; 113. Rear chainstay tube; 12. Wheel; 13. Drivetrain assembly; 131. Bottom bracket; 1311. Chainring; 1312. First gear; 132. Hub; 133. Drivetrain component; 14. Motor module; 141. Motor; 1411. Second gear; 1412. Magnetic coupling; 1413. Clutch; 1414. Sliding gear pair; 1415. Ratchet; 1416. Pawl; 1417. Sprocket; 142. Battery; 143. Control chip; 15. Pedal assembly; 151. Crank; 152. Pedal. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-6 This application will be described in further detail.

[0035] This application discloses a bicycle with freely switchable electric assist modes. (See also...) Figure 1 A bicycle 1 capable of freely switching between electric assist modes includes a frame 11, wheels 12, a transmission assembly 13, a motor module 14, and a pedal assembly 15. The wheels 12 are positioned at corresponding locations on the frame 11. The transmission assembly 13 is mounted on the frame 11 and is connected to the wheels 12. The pedal assembly 15 and the motor module 14 are mounted on the transmission assembly 13. The pedal assembly 15 or the motor module 14 drives the transmission assembly 13 to rotate and thus rotates the wheels 12. The motor module 14 is detachably connected to the frame 11, allowing for flexible installation and removal of the motor module 14 from the frame 11, thus improving the practicality and ease of maintenance and replacement of the device.

[0036] Specifically, the frame 11 includes a seat tube 111, a down tube 112, and a chainstay tube 113. The frame 11 is made of high-strength aluminum alloy, possessing excellent lightweight characteristics and good rigidity. The seat tube 111 primarily connects the handlebars and saddle, providing support; the down tube 112 is located below the handlebars, connecting the seat tube 111 and the chainstay tube 113; the chainstay tube 113 is responsible for the installation and support of the wheel 12. The seat tube 111, down tube 112, and chainstay tube 113 are connected together by welding to form a stable structural frame. The motor module 14 can be installed inside or outside the seat tube 111, or at a suitable location inside or outside the down tube 112 or chainstay tube 113. In this embodiment, the motor module 14 is installed inside the down tube. This design not only maintains the overall strength of the frame 11 but also provides multiple installation options for the motor module 14, making installation more flexible.

[0037] Specifically, the motor module 14 includes a power output structure. This power output structure is connected to the bottom bracket 131 in the transmission assembly 13. One side of the bottom bracket 131 is connected to the pedal assembly 15 for easy pedaling by the rider, while the other side is connected to the power output structure of the motor module 14 to provide auxiliary power. The pedal assembly 15 includes cranks 151 at both ends of the bottom bracket 131 and pedals 152 connected to the cranks 151. The transmission assembly 13 also includes a hub 132 and a transmission component 133. The transmission component 133 can be configured as a chain. The hub 132 is fixedly connected to the wheel 12, and power transmission between the bottom bracket 131 and the hub 132 is achieved through the chain. In this case, a chainring 1311 connected to the drive chain is located at one end of the bottom bracket 131. The power output structure uses a high-precision ball screw pair or a motor 141, resulting in excellent transmission efficiency. The motor module 14 is also equipped with anti-slip and wear-resistant devices, such as rubber pads or Teflon coatings to increase friction, to prevent the motor 141 from slipping under high loads. Furthermore, multiple gear sets can be added to the motor output shaft to achieve multi-stage transmission, adapting to different power requirements.

[0038] The motor module 14 also includes a battery 142 and a control chip 143. The battery 142 is managed by a high-efficiency battery management system to optimize energy distribution; the control chip 143 uses advanced algorithms to achieve precise control of the motor 141. The battery 142 uses a high-density lithium battery, providing a long driving range. The control chip 143 can monitor the battery 142's operating status in real time to prevent overcharging and over-discharging. The control chip 143 also has multiple protection functions, such as temperature protection, short-circuit protection, and reverse connection protection, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the motor module 14. The battery 142 is removable, allowing users to replace it as needed, improving ease of use. The motor module 14 is designed to be waterproof and dustproof, ensuring normal operation in various harsh weather conditions.

[0039] In one embodiment, the power output structure extends from the fixed package of the battery module 14 and connects to the central shaft 131, thereby achieving a mechanical connection with the central shaft 131.

[0040] Reference Figure 2 Specifically, in addition to the crank 1311 fixed relative to the central shaft 131, the central shaft 131 is also provided with a first gear 1312 coaxially arranged. The first gear 1312 is connected to the motor module 14 to realize efficient power transmission.

[0041] In one specific embodiment, the power output end of the motor module 14 is connected to the second gear 1411 using a magnetic coupling 1412 or a clutch 1413. The second gear 1411 is fixed to the frame 11 and meshes with the first gear 1312. The magnetic coupling 1412 features simple structure, non-contact transmission, and low loss, effectively reducing the failure rate. The second gear 1411 can be made of high-quality carbon steel and undergoes heat treatment to improve its hardness and wear resistance, extending its service life. Furthermore, by adjusting the working clearance of the magnetic coupling 1412, the power transmission effect under different load conditions can be adjusted.

[0042] Specifically, the first gear 1312 is configured as a bevel gear. When the first gear 1312 is a bevel gear, the second gear 1411 is configured as a bevel gear that meshes with the first gear 1312. At this time, the motor output shaft is perpendicular to the central shaft 131. The motor output shaft and the second gear 1411 are connected by a magnetic coupling 1412. An inner magnetic rotor is provided at the end of the output shaft, and an outer magnetic rotor is provided at the end of the shaft connected to the second gear 1411 near the output shaft. When electric drive is required, the inner and outer magnetic rotors of the magnetic coupling 1412 attract each other, and then the motor 141 drives the second gear 1411 to rotate, which in turn drives the first gear 1312 to rotate, thus achieving electric drive. If driven by the pedal 152, the control chip 143 controls the magnetic coupling 1412 to be de-energized or closed, and the second gear 1411 is disconnected from the motor output shaft, which can quickly switch between electric and pedal 152 drive to ensure the safety of the bicycle 1.

[0043] Reference Figure 3 In another specific embodiment, the first gear 1312 is configured as a spur gear. When the first gear 1312 is a spur gear, the second gear 1411 is configured as a spur gear that meshes with the first gear 1312. In this case, the motor output shaft and the central shaft 131 can be arranged parallel or perpendicularly.

[0044] For example, when the motor output shaft is set parallel to the central shaft 131, the first gear 1312 is set inside the gear, and the second gear 1411 is set with a clutch 1413 between it and the motor output shaft. The switching between electric and foot pedal 152 is achieved through the action of the clutch 1413.

[0045] Reference Figure 4 In another embodiment, the motor output shaft is perpendicular to the central shaft 131, and the power output structure engages with the first gear 1312 via a sliding gear pair 1414. The sliding gear pair 1414 matches both the first gear 1312 and the motor 141 in a sliding limit state. Specifically, the first gear 1312 is a spur gear, the second gear 1411 is a bevel gear, and the sliding gear pair 1414 is configured as a bevel gear parallel to the central shaft 131, with one end meshing with the second gear 1411 and the other end meshing with the first gear 1312. This structure ensures a tighter connection between the first gear 1312 and the motor 141 in the sliding limit state, reducing power transmission losses. The sliding gear pair 1414 is mounted on the frame 11, ensuring system stability and allowing its position to be adjusted without disassembly to adapt to power demands under different riding conditions. The sliding gear pair 1414 can also be designed to be manually adjustable, allowing cyclists to easily make fine adjustments using tools such as knobs or wrenches to further optimize the riding experience.

[0046] Reference Figure 5 In another embodiment, when the transmission component 133 is a chain, the power output structure can also be connected to the second gear 1411 via a ratchet and pawl structure. Specifically, the first gear 1312 is a spur gear, the second gear 1411 is rotatably connected to the motor output shaft, and a ratchet and pawl are provided between the second gear 1411 and the motor output shaft. Specifically, the ratchet 1415 is located inside the second gear 1411 facing the output shaft, and the pawl 1416 is rotatably connected to the motor output shaft, achieving a unidirectional transmission effect. When the pedaling speed of the central axle 131 is higher than the speed of the motor 141, it automatically disengages; otherwise, it is in the power-assisted state. This connection method ensures power transmission when the motor 141 is driving, and disconnects the power connection when manually driven, avoiding the influence of the resistance of the motor 141 on pedaling and improving the efficiency of manual driving.

[0047] Reference Figure 6In another embodiment, when the transmission component 133 is a chain, the power output structure can also be configured as a sprocket 1417. Specifically, the motor 141 is arranged parallel to the bottom bracket 131, and a sprocket 1417 is provided at the end of the motor output shaft that passes through the fixed package of the battery module 14. The sprocket 1417 is connected to the chainring 1311. The rotation of the sprocket 1417 drives the chainring 1311 to rotate, thereby driving the bicycle 1. A clutch 1413 is also provided between the motor output shaft and the sprocket 1417. The clutch 1413 is used to switch between electric and pedal 152 to avoid the influence of the resistance of the motor 141 on pedaling.

[0048] The implementation principle of a bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to this application embodiment is as follows: by detachably mounting the motor module 14 onto the frame 11, the Ebike maintains the flexibility of a traditional bicycle 1 while possessing electric assistance functionality. Specifically, a high-performance motor module 14 is used, and through a reasonable power output structure and transmission component 13 design, power transmission is more efficient, reducing the energy consumption of the battery 142 and improving the riding experience. Furthermore, by introducing technologies such as a magnetic coupling 1412, a ratchet and pawl structure, and a sliding gear pair 1414 into the transmission component 13, power transmission ensures both stability and flexibility to adapt to different riding conditions, thereby significantly improving the overall performance of the Ebike. This embodiment also improves the safety and reliability of the Ebike through reasonable material selection and design.

[0049] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a frame (11), wheels (12), a transmission assembly (13), a motor module (14), and a pedal assembly (15). The wheels (12) are positioned at corresponding locations on the frame (11). The frame (11) is also equipped with a transmission assembly (13), which is connected to the wheels (12). The transmission assembly (13) is also equipped with a pedal assembly (15) and a motor module (14). The pedal assembly (15) or the motor module (14) is used to drive the transmission assembly (13) to rotate and drive the wheels (12) to rotate. The motor module (14) is detachably connected to the frame (11).

2. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 1, characterized in that, The motor module (14) is located inside or outside the tubes of the frame (11), and the tubes are any one or more of the riser tube (111), down tube (112), and rear downstay tube (113).

3. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 1, characterized in that, The motor module (14) includes a power output structure; the transmission assembly (13) includes a bottom bracket (131), a hub (132), and a transmission component (133); the bottom bracket (131) is connected to the power output structure of the motor module (14) or the pedal assembly (15), the hub (132) is connected to the wheel (12), and the transmission component (133) is used to transmit power between the bottom bracket (131) and the hub (132).

4. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 3, characterized in that, The motor module (14) includes a battery (142), a motor (141), and a control chip (143), which are fixedly packaged.

5. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 4, characterized in that, The power output structure of the motor (141) extends out from the fixed package of the motor module (14), and the power output structure is driven to be connected to the central shaft (131) or a structure set on the central shaft (131).

6. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the transmission component (133) is a chain, the central shaft (131) also includes a chainring (1311) fixed relative to the central shaft (131) and a first gear (1312) coaxially arranged. The power output structure is also connected to the second gear (1411) through a magnetic coupling (1412) or a clutch (1413). The second gear (1411) is fixed on the frame (11) and cooperates with the first gear (1312).

7. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the transmission component (133) is a chain, the frame (11) also includes a sprocket (1417) that matches the chainring (1311), and the power output structure is also connected to the sprocket (1417) via a magnetic coupling (1412) or a clutch (1413).

8. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the transmission component (133) is a chain, the central shaft (131) also includes a chainring (1311) fixed relative to the central shaft (131) and a first gear (1312) coaxially arranged. The power output structure is also connected to the second gear (1411) through a ratchet and pawl structure. The second gear (1411) is fixed on the frame (11) and cooperates with the first gear (1312).

9. The bicycle with freely switchable electric assist mode according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the transmission component (133) is a chain, the central shaft (131) also includes a chain (1311) fixed relative to the central shaft (131) and a first gear (1312) coaxially arranged. The power output structure also cooperates with the first gear (1312) through a sliding gear pair (1414). The sliding gear pair (1414) is matched with the first gear (1312) and the motor (141) respectively in a sliding limit state. The sliding gear pair (1414) is arranged on the frame (11).