Bicycle Controller Torque Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle controllers only adjust assist ratios based on manual driving force, failing to adapt to varying riding environments effectively.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle controller with an electronic control unit that switches between multiple operation modes based on riding environment conditions, such as inclination and vibration, to optimize motor output torque and assist ratios, ensuring appropriate assistance regardless of the environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the assist ratio is increased to provide stronger motor assistance, then the propelling assistance is improved, but the ratio of manual driving force to motor output torque changes excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the upper limit value of motor output torque adjustable across multiple operation modes. The electronic control unit dynamically changes the torque ceiling based on detected riding conditions (flat terrain, uphill, downhill), allowing the system to adapt the motor's power output characteristics to match environmental demands while preserving natural riding feel in each context.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the upper limit value of motor output torque across different operation modes. Specifically, the second operation mode sets the upper limit to 1.5 times or more of the first operation mode's limit, while the third mode sets it to one of the first or second mode limits. This parameter adjustment allows the system to provide appropriate assistance levels without causing excessive changes in the manual-to-motor force ratio.
2Power
If the upper limit value of motor output torque is increased to provide stronger assistance, then the propelling power is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by setting different upper limit values for motor output torque across three operation modes. The electronic control unit selects the appropriate torque limit based on detected riding conditions, ensuring the motor operates at optimal power levels - providing high torque only when necessary (uphill) and reducing torque for easier terrain, thereby optimizing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the motor's upper torque limit based on real-time detection of riding environment. By switching between operation modes with different torque ceilings, the system provides high power assistance only when the environment demands it (steep uphill), and reduces power consumption on flat or downhill sections, achieving adaptive energy management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation modes with different torque limits are implemented to adapt to riding environment, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics through an operation mode switching mechanism that adapts the motor control parameters to different riding environments. The electronic control unit detects environmental conditions (flat, uphill, downhill) and dynamically switches between three operation modes with progressively higher torque limits (1.0x, 1.5x, or 1.0/1.5x of baseline), providing environment-specific assistance without requiring complex mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves adaptability through parameter changes in the electronic control unit, which modifies the upper limit value of motor output torque based on detected riding conditions. By implementing three distinct operation modes with clearly defined torque limits, the system provides versatile environmental adaptation while maintaining relatively simple control logic - the ECU simply selects the appropriate pre-defined torque limit based on sensor inputs.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle controller includes an electronic control unit controlling output of a motor that assists in propelling of a bicycle based on a manual driving force input to the bicycle. The electronic control unit further configured to control the motor in any one of operation modes including first, second and another operation modes, which control the output of the motor based on the manual driving force. The other operation mode excludes the first and second operation modes. In the first operation mode, the upper limit of output torque of the motor is a first value. In the second operation mode, the upper limit of output torque of the motor is a second value, which is 1.5 times or more than the first value. In the other operation mode, the upper limit of the output torque of the motor is the first value or less, or the second value or greater.