Bicycle Handlebar Base Member Electric Port Positioning

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing human-powered vehicle operating devices lack an effective way to utilize the second end portion and surrounding area for providing an electric communication port, which limits the efficient integration and arrangement of communication ports in the device.

Innovation Solution

The operating device incorporates an electric communication port positioned closer to the second end portion, which is opposite to the handlebar, allowing for efficient utilization of this area and integration with the hydraulic unit, including a cylinder bore and piston, to provide a stable and functional communication port.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the electric communication port is positioned at the first end portion near the handlebar, then it is easier to access and connect cables, but the second end portion and surrounding area remain underutilized

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The base member is designed to accommodate multiple functions: it provides both the first end portion for handlebar coupling and the second end portion for electric communication port integration. This multi-functional design allows the single base member to serve both mechanical coupling and electrical communication purposes, effectively utilizing the previously underused second end portion while maintaining cable accessibility

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If the electric communication port is positioned closer to the second end portion, then the second end portion is effectively utilized, but the port may be harder to access for cable connection

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The electric communication port is positioned at the second end portion of the base member, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the base member structure. This spatial arrangement allows the port to be integrated into the previously underutilized area while the base member's extended structure maintains accessibility for cable connection operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the electric communication port is integrated near the hydraulic unit, then space utilization is improved, but the complexity of integration increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electric communication port is integrated into the base member structure near the hydraulic unit, merging the electrical communication function with the mechanical base member. This consolidation allows efficient space utilization by combining multiple functions (hydraulic operation, electrical communication, and structural support) into a single integrated assembly, reducing the need for separate components and mounting structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11814130B2Operating device for human-powered vehicle
Publication Date: 2023.11.14
  • US11814130B2 patent drawing
  • US11814130B2 patent drawing
  • US11814130B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An operating device for a human-powered vehicle comprises a base member and an electric communication port. The base member extends in a longitudinal direction. The base member includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is configured to be coupled to a handlebar. The second end portion is opposite to the first end portion in the longitudinal direction. The electric communication port is configured to be electrically connected to a connector of an electric cable. The electric communication port is closer to the second end portion than the first end portion in the longitudinal direction.