Integrated Bicycle Grip Light Assembly for Visible Turn Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The legalisation of bicycle indicator lights in Germany requires a cost-effective and easy-to-install lighting system that meets the technical requirements for brightness, visibility, and robustness, while avoiding the complexity and weight of conventional motorcycle indicator light systems.
Innovation Solution
A compact light assembly for bicycles comprising a light fixture with semiconductor sources, control electronics, and a handlebar grip, designed as an integral unit, which can be easily installed by connecting to the e-bike's AUX port or battery, with synchronized lighting functions using a connection cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional motorcycle indicator light systems are transferred to bicycles, then the lighting function and visibility are improved, but the weight and complexity of the system increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a control unit with electronics, multiple light sources (LEDs) positioned at different locations, and a power management system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation and maintenance while maintaining overall system functionality and visibility requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls direction indicator lights, integrates with the bicycle's existing power system (AUX port or battery), and can coordinate with other lighting functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining illumination intensity
2Illumination intensity
If conventional motorcycle indicator light systems are transferred to bicycles, then the lighting function is improved, but the installation effort and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is merged with the power management system, allowing it to draw power directly from the bicycle's existing power source through the AUX port or battery connection. This integration eliminates the need for separate power supply installations and reduces the number of discrete components that require mounting, thereby reducing installation effort while maintaining the required illumination intensity
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to utilize the bicycle's existing power infrastructure and control interfaces. The control unit automatically manages power distribution to light sources and can interface with the bicycle's existing electrical system, reducing the need for additional installation components and simplifying the manufacturing and installation process
3Device complexity
If hand signals are used for direction indication, then no additional components are needed, but the cyclist's stability and control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical hand signaling system is replaced with an electrical/optical system. The control unit receives input (potentially from handlebar-mounted controls or automatic sensors) and activates light sources to indicate direction. This substitution allows the cyclist to maintain hand placement on the handlebars for steering control while direction indication is handled by the automated or electronically-assisted lighting system, thereby improving cyclist stability without requiring complex mechanical linkages
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides enhanced visibility, safety, and comfort by ensuring clear direction indications without requiring additional hand signals, reducing installation time and weight, and meeting legal brightness and visibility standards.
Implementation Method 1
a light fixture with at least one light source, in particular a semiconductor light source
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a light assembly configured for mounting on a bicycle, in particular on an e-bike, and for performing a lighting function or part thereof. It is suggested that the light assembly comprises as an integral unit a handlebar grip intended for mounting on a distal handle end of a handlebar tube of the bicycle, a light fixture with at least one light source, in particular a semiconductor light source, control electronics for controlling the light source and for implementing the lighting function, and an operating element, in particular a button, for controlling the at least one light source and is configured for mounting on the distal handle end as a unit.--.