Adaptive Bicycle Transmission Control via Real-Time Sensor Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bicycle transmission systems lack the ability to dynamically adjust gear positions based on real-time bicycle conditions such as cadence, torque, energy input, and geographical location, leading to suboptimal performance and rider experience.

Innovation Solution

A bicycle transmission apparatus featuring a controller that adjusts the transmission route in response to shift signals, utilizing bicycle-information obtaining devices to gather data on cadence, torque, energy, and geographical location, and controlling front and rear derailleurs to optimize gear shifts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the transmission system uses fixed gear positions without dynamic adjustment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different running conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to running conditionsVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by enabling the transmission route to change adaptively based on real-time bicycle information. The controller dynamically adjusts gear positions and transmission actions according to detected parameters such as cadence, torque, and geographical location, transforming a static transmission system into a dynamic one that responds to varying running conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback through bicycle-information obtaining devices that continuously detect running conditions and feed this information to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to automatically adjust the transmission route, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions without requiring manual intervention from the rider.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the system automatically adjusts transmission route based on multiple parameters, then the productivity and efficiency are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshifting efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional transmission apparatus that integrates multiple detection functions (cadence detection, torque detection, geographical location detection) and control functions into a single system. The controller serves multiple purposes by processing various types of bicycle information and generating appropriate transmission actions, reducing the need for separate specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service through the automatic transmission route adjustment capability. The system monitors its own operating conditions and autonomously makes transmission decisions without requiring external input or manual shifting by the rider. This self-regulating mechanism improves shifting efficiency and allows the rider to focus on pedaling while the system optimizes gear selection independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the transmission system considers multiple bicycle information parameters, then the adaptability improves, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to running conditionsVSAvoiddifficulty of detecting bicycle information
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the information detection task into separate specialized sensors: a cadence detection device for measuring pedal rotation speed, a torque detection device for measuring applied force, and a geographical location detection device for determining position and terrain. Each sensor is optimized for its specific measurement function, reducing the complexity that would arise from attempting to measure all parameters with a single device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9487268B2Bicycle transmission apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.11.08 SHIMANO INC
  • US9487268B2 patent drawing
  • US9487268B2 patent drawing
  • US9487268B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bicycle transmission apparatus comprises a controller configured to control at least one transmission device in accordance with a transmission route in response to a shift signal. The controller is configured to adjust the transmission route based on bicycle information relating to a running condition of a bicycle.