Human Powered Drive System Arm Leg Power Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional user-powered vehicles fail to provide a coordinated combination of significant additional power with familiar drivability, rideability, and operability, being clumsy, awkward, complicated, dangerous, heavy, and large, which hinders widespread public acceptance.
Innovation Solution
A drive system that combines arm power with leg power by using an arm power headset with a universal joint assembly to allow handlebar movement in forward and aft directions while twisting for steering, coupled with a push/pull rod converting arm movement into rotary motion, linking to a drive sprocket system, enabling efficient power transfer and steering in a conventional manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If arm power is added to conventional bicycles, then power output is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handlebar is designed to serve multiple functions: traditional steering, arm power generation through forward and aft movement, and integration with the drive system. This multi-functionality allows the handlebar to contribute power while maintaining steering capability, adding power output without requiring a completely separate power transmission system.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm power generation mechanism is merged with the existing handlebar and steering system. The universal joint assembly integrates the arm movement mechanism with the handlebar structure, combining steering and power generation functions into a unified system rather than adding separate components.
2Power
If arm power mechanism is integrated with handlebar, then power contribution is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The handlebar maintains its primary steering function while simultaneously serving as a power generation mechanism. Riders can steer in conventional manner while also generating power through forward and aft arm movements, eliminating the need to choose between steering comfort and power contribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal joint assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates arm movements into rotational power while allowing the handlebar to maintain its steering function. This intermediary component enables smooth power transmission without compromising the handlebar's maneuverability or steering responsiveness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If universal joint assembly is used for handlebar movement, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal joint assembly enables the handlebar to perform multiple functions: steering left and right, moving forward and aft for power generation, and twisting for additional steering control. This single mechanism provides adaptability for various riding conditions and power generation needs without requiring multiple separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal joint assembly provides dynamic movement capabilities, allowing the handlebar to move in multiple directions and orientations as needed. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to handle various riding scenarios smoothly while maintaining mechanical efficiency through a single versatile joint mechanism.
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
The drive system allows for effective power contribution from both arms and legs, providing efficient and balanced movement with familiar controls, enhancing the usability and efficiency of human-powered devices like bicycles, while being easy to integrate as an OEM or conversion kit without permanent changes.
Implementation Method 1
a universal joint assembly configured to provide forward and aft movement of and twisting movement inside the headset at the same time
Implementation Method 2
a push/pull rod configured to convert forward and aft arm movement into rotary movement
Data Source
AI summary
Drive systems configured to combine arm power with leg power are disclosed. A drive system may comprise an arm power headset comprising: a joint assembly configured to provide forward and aft movement; and a mounting bracket coupled to the joint assembly and configured to align the joint assembly. The drive system may further comprise: a push/pull rod configured to convert forward and aft arm movement into rotary movement, the push/pull rod coupling the arm power headset to a first drive assembly; the first drive assembly comprising a first drive sprocket coupled to a first crank shaft; a second drive assembly adjacent the first drive assembly; and a linking device linking the second drive assembly with the first drive assembly.