Power-Assisted Bicycle Coupler with Integrated Charging and Infrared Communication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing public bicycle rental systems face challenges in managing and maintaining power-assisted bicycles due to difficulties in monitoring real-time battery data, oxidation of charging joints, and unsuitable input voltage, which hinders the integration of power-assisted bicycles into the system.
Innovation Solution
A coupler for power-assisted bicycles with an integrated charging module, infrared communication module, and a locking device that enables wireless communication and charging, along with a battery management system, which converts 220V voltage for efficient charging and management, and a locking device with an intelligent charger and infrared communication module for secure and reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power-assisted bicycles are integrated into the public bicycle rental system, then the system can offer more diverse and convenient services to users, but it becomes difficult to monitor real-time battery data and manage the power-assisted bicycles effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism through the infrared communication module that continuously transmits battery status data from the power-assisted bicycle to the locking device and management system. This allows real-time monitoring of battery charge levels, usage information, and operational status, resolving the information loss problem while maintaining system adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device serves as an intermediary between the power-assisted bicycle and the management system. It houses the infrared communication module that acts as a mediator to transmit and receive data, enabling effective monitoring and management without requiring direct connection between the bicycle and central system
2Productivity
If power-assisted bicycles are parked outside for long term, then the rental system can operate continuously, but the charging joints are prone to oxidation and poor contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the charging function from traditional exposed charging ports and integrates it into a sealed charging module within the locking device. The charging terminals are enclosed in a protective structure that prevents exposure to environmental factors, eliminating oxidation and contact issues while maintaining continuous system operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical charging contacts with an infrared communication-based charging control system. The infrared module enables wireless communication for charging status monitoring and control, reducing reliance on physical contact points and thereby improving reliability in outdoor environments
3Power
If the charging module uses 220V input voltage, then the charging power is sufficient for battery packs, but it is unsuitable for public bicycle system standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by incorporating a voltage conversion module that transforms the 220V input voltage into multiple standardized voltage levels suitable for different battery pack specifications. This allows the charging system to maintain high power output while adapting to various voltage standards required by the public bicycle system
Solution Approach 2:
The charging module is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple voltage inputs and output configurations. The intelligent charger can automatically detect and adapt to different battery pack requirements, making it suitable for various power-assisted bicycle models while maintaining sufficient charging power
4Ease of operation
If charging terminals are exposed on the coupler, then charging connection is convenient, but the risk of short circuits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a waterproof sealing structure with protective shells and insulation layers that cover the charging terminals. These flexible protective elements maintain convenient connection access while providing effective isolation from moisture and contaminants, thereby reducing short circuit risk without compromising ease of operation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Disclosed are a rental system and a control method for a power-assisted bicycle, a locking device applied in a system, a power-assisted bicycle and a coupler thereof. The coupler comprises a main body (11) having a cavity and an electronic tag applied for bicycle identity identification and located in the cavity, and further comprises a charging module (12) and an infrared coupler communication module (13). A left charging terminal (121) of the charging module (12) is exposed on the left side face of the main body (11), and a right charging terminal (122) is exposed on the right side face of the main body (11). A lens (131) of the infrared coupler communication module (13) is exposed on the surface of the main body (11). The front end of the main body (11) is provided with a lock hole (111). A locking device of the rental system and the power-assisted bicycle both have an infrared communication module, so that the power-assisted bicycle can be charged by means of the locking device communicating with a battery management system of the power-assisted bicycle, thus ensuring the normal usage of the power-assisted bicycle in a public rental system.