Bicycle Control Lever Architecture for Multi-Function Ergonomics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle operating apparatuses lack design freedom and versatility in their operating components, limiting the number of functions that can be controlled and the ease of operation.
Innovation Solution
The bicycle operating apparatus features a pivotable operating component with two separate operating elements that can be deflected independently or together to actuate different switches, allowing for the control of multiple bicycle functions with a compact and ergonomic design, including a housing with an electronic circuit arrangement and a fastening device for attachment to the handlebar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an integrally formed plastics component is used as the operating component, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the design freedom and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The operating component is divided into multiple separate elements (first operating element, second operating element, and third operating element) that can be independently designed and manufactured. Each element can be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall integration through mounting on a common carrier element, thus achieving both manufacturing simplicity and design freedom.
2Device complexity
If a single operating component is used, then the device structure is simple, but the number of controllable functions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The operating component comprises multiple operating elements (first, second, and third operating elements) that can independently actuate different switches (first switch, second switch, and optionally third switch). This multi-functional design allows a single operating component to control up to six bicycle functions through combinations of switch actuations, achieving versatility without excessive structural complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If operating elements are arranged closely together, then the apparatus is compact, but the risk of finger entrapment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating elements are arranged asymmetrically on the carrier element with deliberate spacing between them. The first, second, and third operating elements are positioned to allow sufficient clearance for finger operation while maintaining a compact overall footprint. This asymmetric arrangement with controlled spacing reduces the risk of finger entrapment while preserving compactness.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches are actuated by a single operating component, then the control versatility increases, but the ease of operation may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Each operating element (first, second, and third) is designed with specific local characteristics optimized for its intended function. The operating elements can be shaped, sized, and positioned to match the ergonomic requirements of different finger operations. This localized optimization allows each element to be easily actuated while collectively providing versatile control over multiple bicycle functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle operating apparatus includes a carrier element having fastening device for fixing the apparatus to the handlebar; a housing, on the carrier element, having an electronic circuit arrangement in the housing; a first and a second switch, each connected to the electronic circuit arrangement, are on the housing; and an operating component mounted on the carrier element pivotable about an operating axis preloaded into a neutral position, the operating component deflected out of the neutral position in a first direction of rotation about the operating axis to actuate the first switch, and deflected out of the neutral position in a second direction opposite to the first direction to actuate the second switch, where the operating component includes a first operating element and a second operating element that are formed separately from one another in one piece and are mounted on the carrier element pivotable about the operating axis.


