Bicycle Control Device for Curved Handlebars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle control devices are not adaptable to the curved handlebars of road bikes, limiting operation modes based on the rider's hand position, and often interfere with the handlebar grip, compromising maneuverability and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle control device with two connecting rods that allow riders to change operation modes by flipping them with their index or middle finger, regardless of the hand position, ensuring the thumb can maintain grip without interference, and integrating with the handlebar's design to adjust components like seat height or shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional wire control device is used on a road bike with curved handlebar, then the device structure is simple, but the rider cannot operate the device when hand is at the lower (racing) handling position
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is divided into two separate connecting rods (first connecting rod and second connecting rod) that can be independently operated. This segmentation allows the rider to use different rods for different handlebar positions, enabling operation at both upper and lower handling positions without increasing overall device complexity significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to the control mechanism by positioning the first connecting rod for upper handlebar position operation and the second connecting rod for lower handlebar position operation. This dimensional arrangement allows riders to access control functions regardless of hand position on the curved handlebar.
2Ease of operation
If a lever design is added to allow operation mode changes regardless of hand position, then the operability is improved, but the lever is too huge and increases too much weight
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large lever, the invention segments the control function into two smaller connecting rods. Each rod is sized appropriately for its specific operation, reducing overall weight while maintaining the capability to change operation modes regardless of hand position.
Solution Approach 2:
Each connecting rod is designed with specific local characteristics optimized for its position - the first connecting rod is positioned and dimensioned for upper handlebar operation, while the second is optimized for lower handlebar operation. This local optimization reduces the need for an oversized universal lever.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a control device is added to the curved handlebar, then the operation modes can be changed, but the device may occupy the handle holding region and make the rider unable to hold the handle with the thumb
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is arranged in the vertical dimension along the curved handlebar, utilizing the available space without protruding into the horizontal handle holding region. This dimensional arrangement allows multiple operation modes while preserving thumb grip capability on the handlebar.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second connecting rods are pre-positioned at locations that do not interfere with the natural thumb grip position on the curved handlebar. This preliminary placement ensures that riders can maintain comfortable handlebar grip while accessing control functions through the connecting rods.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional wire control device is used on a road bike, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot adapt to multiple handling positions of the curved handlebar
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is segmented into two independent connecting rods, each dedicated to specific handlebar positions. This segmentation provides adaptability to multiple handling positions while keeping each individual rod structurally simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual connecting rod system provides multi-functionality by enabling operation at both upper and lower handlebar positions, as well as intermediate positions. This universal design allows a single control device to serve multiple handling positions that were previously incompatible with conventional single-mode control devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle control device arranged on a curved handlebar of a bicycle and used to adjust a component of the bicycle is provided. The curved handlebar includes a straight section and a curved section extending from both ends of the straight section. The control device includes a fastener, a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod. The fastener has a hollow space for the curved handlebar to pass through, a first pivoting portion and a second pivoting portion. The first connecting rod has a third pivoting portion and a first pulling portion, wherein the first connecting rod is pivoted to the first pivoting portion through the third pivoting portion. The second connecting rod has a fourth pivoting portion and a second pulling portion, wherein the second connecting rod is pivoted to the second pivoting portion through the fourth pivoting portion.