Bicycle Component Actuation via Duration-Based Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle control systems lack efficient and customizable mechanisms for actuating multiple electric components, such as derailleurs and suspension systems, based on user input and operation duration, leading to limited control over gear shifting and suspension settings.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle component actuation apparatus comprising a base member, a user operating member, and a controller that detects movement and duration of user input to selectively operate electric components like derailleurs and suspension systems, allowing for customizable settings and operation signals to adjust gear shifting and suspension states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a shift operating wire connects the user operating member to the bicycle component, then manual operation of the user operating member actuates the bicycle component, but the system lacks customization and cannot differentiate between short and long duration operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical wire-based actuation system with an electronic sensing and control system. The user operating member is equipped with a movement detector that generates electrical signals, which are processed by a controller to determine operation duration and trigger different responses. This substitution enables customization and differentiation of control modes without requiring complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The user operating member is designed to perform multiple functions: it can detect both short duration operations (for immediate gear shifting) and long duration operations (for triggering additional functions like suspension adjustment or component activation). This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated control system that processes movement duration and selectively activates different responses, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the controller operates both electric components upon detecting long duration operation, then comprehensive control is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is pre-programmed with predetermined logic that automatically distinguishes between short and long duration operations. When the movement detector signals a long duration operation exceeding the predetermined time threshold, the controller is already configured to execute the appropriate sequence of actions (operating both electric components). This preliminary configuration simplifies the operational complexity for the user, as no additional manual input or complex decision-making is required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If movement detector and controller are added to detect operation duration, then customizable control is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movement detector serves as an intermediary device that bridges the mechanical operation of the user operating member and the electronic control system. It converts mechanical movement into electrical signals that the controller can process, enabling duration-based detection without requiring the controller to directly monitor mechanical parameters. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system architecture by separating the sensing and control functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle component actuation apparatus basically comprises a base member; a user operating member and a controller. The user operating member is movably mounted to the base member from a rest position to a first operated position. The controller detects operation of the user operating member to operate first and second electric components, one of which is not a shifting device. The controller operates one of the first and second electric components upon the controller detecting the user operating member being moved to the first operated position. The controller operates at least the other of the first and second electric components upon the controller detecting the user operating member remaining at the first operated position for a period of time longer than a first prescribed time.