Bicycle Control Device with Segmented Gearshift Operating Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle gear shifter devices require complex finger movements to execute two types of gear shift operations, leading to difficulty in operating and a risk of unintended gear changes due to overlapping gearshift operating parts.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle control device with two separate gearshift operating parts that move independently, allowing both upshift and downshift operations to be performed in the same direction using the ventral side of the finger, with the second gearshift operating part moving together with the first to prevent interference and unintended actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two gearshift operating parts are arranged separately to enable two types of gear shift operations, then gear shift operations can be executed by operating two gear shift members in the same direction, but one gearshift operating part gets in the way when the other gearshift operating part is operated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the two gearshift operating parts at different radial distances from the pivot axis of the brake lever. The first gearshift operating part is arranged at a first radial distance while the second gearshift operating part is arranged at a second radial distance that is different from the first. This dimensional arrangement in the radial direction allows both operating parts to be accessed by the rider's finger without one blocking the other, resolving the interference problem while maintaining ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the gearshift operating part is arranged closer to the palm of the hand, then gear shift operation is easier to execute, but the gearshift operating part will be moved accidentally causing unintended change of gears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the gear shifting function into two separate operating parts (first gearshift operating part and second gearshift operating part) positioned at different radial distances from the pivot axis. This segmentation allows independent control of upshifting and downshifting operations, reducing the risk of unintended gear changes while maintaining ease of operation through the ventral side of the finger.
Solution Approach 2:
By arranging the gearshift operating parts at different radial distances from the pivot axis, the patent creates a dimensional separation that prevents accidental activation. The rider can selectively operate only the intended gearshift part without accidentally moving the other, as they are positioned at different radial positions along the brake lever.
3Device complexity
If a single lever member is used for both upshift and downshift operations, then the device structure is simpler, but the lever member must be pivoted in different directions requiring complex finger movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single lever member into two separate gearshift operating parts: a first gearshift operating part for upshifting and a second gearshift operating part for downshifting. Both parts are pivotally connected to the brake lever and can be operated in the same direction (inward toward the middle of the handlebar) using the ventral side of the finger, eliminating the need for complex bidirectional finger movements while maintaining structural simplicity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A bicycle control device is provided with a brake bracket (30f, 30r), a brake lever (31f, 31r), a first gearshift operating part (42r, 42f), a second gearshift operating part (44r, 44f), a first electrical switch (46r), and a second electrical switch (48r). The brake bracket is mountable to a handlebar. The brake lever is pivotally mounted to the brake bracket. The first gearshift operating part is movable relative to the brake lever. The second gearshift operating part is separate from the first gearshift operating part and movable relative to the brake lever. The first electrical switch is operated with the first gearshift operating part. The second electrical switch is operated with the second gearshift operating part. The second gearshift operating part is arranged such that when the first gearshift operating part is moved relative to the brake lever, the second gearshift operating part moves relative to the brake lever along with the first gearshift operating part.