Annular Bicycle Shifter Transmitter for Compact Multi-Signal Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle shifters and signal transmitters face challenges in generating a wide range of shifting signals with limited installation space and require complex assembly and operation, especially in electrified bicycles with increasing function density.
Innovation Solution
A signal transmitter for a shifter apparatus comprising an annular transmitter base and an annular operating element that can be rotated and tilted, generating various transmitter signals through a sensor system, allowing for intuitive operation and compact design with minimal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate signal transmitters are used to achieve different shifting functions, then the function density increases, but the device complexity and installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The annular operating element serves multiple functions: it can be rotated about the longitudinal axis to generate first and second shifting signals, and it can be tilted relative to the base to generate a third shifting signal. This single component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate transmitters, achieving multi-functionality while reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple signal generation functions into a single integrated annular operating element that can perform both rotational movements and tilting movements. By merging these functions into one component rather than using separate transmitters, the overall device complexity is reduced while maintaining high function density
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate signal transmitters are used to achieve different shifting functions, then the function density increases, but the installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The annular operating element serves multiple functions: it can be rotated about the longitudinal axis to generate first and second shifting signals, and it can be tilted relative to the base to generate a third shifting signal. This single component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate transmitters, achieving multi-functionality while reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The annular operating element is designed to fit concentrically around the handlebar, with the feed-through opening accommodating the handlebar. This nested configuration allows the signal transmitter to be mounted compactly on the handlebar without requiring additional installation space, as the operating element essentially wraps around the existing handlebar structure
3Measurement precision
If complex operation procedures are required to generate different shifting signals, then the measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operating element is designed to detect dynamic movements in different degrees of freedom: rotational movements about the longitudinal axis and tilting movements relative to the base. By utilizing these natural dynamic movements rather than requiring complex procedural operations, the system maintains high signal detection precision while ensuring ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a magnetic field-based sensor system to detect the position and movement of the operating element, replacing complex mechanical linkages and cable systems. This substitution allows for precise detection of rotational and tilting movements through magnetic field changes, eliminating the need for complex mechanical operation procedures while maintaining high measurement precision
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables generation of multiple shifting signals with high function density while maintaining a simple and robust design, enhancing user safety and convenience by reducing operational strain and improving concentration on riding.
Implementation Method 1
the annular operating element has at least one magnet and is configured in such a manner that the annular operating element can be or is held in a neutral position on the annular transmitter base by the at least one magnet
Implementation Method 2
The sensor is arranged in the annular transmitter base and can be excited by the magnet allocated to the annular operating element to generate specific transmitter signals
Data Source
AI summary
A signal transmitter for a shifter apparatus for a bicycle. The signal transmitter includes an annular transmitter base, a sensor which generates transmitter signals, and an annular operating element which can be joined to the annular transmitter base to jointly form a feed-through opening which accommodate a bicycle handlebar. The annular operating element includes a magnet and can be held in a neutral position on the annular transmitter base by the magnet so that, starting therefrom, the annular operating element is operatable to perform a rotational movement relative to the annular transmitter base in any direction about a longitudinal axis of the feed-through opening, and to perform a tilting movement relative to the annular transmitter base. The transmitter signals generated by the sensor correspond to a specific rotational movement or to a specific tilting movement of the annular operating element.