Bicycle Handlebar Indicator with Rotating Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Human-powered vehicle operators face challenges in maintaining concentration while riding due to indicators that are either obstructive or difficult to view, and existing solutions do not effectively balance visibility and usability.
Innovation Solution
An operating device for human-powered vehicles featuring a base member with a grip portion and an indicator on the end surface, where the indicator is designed to be hidden from direct sight but visible when needed, using a light transmission member made of transparent material to convey information through light emission, including multiple colors, and is integrated into the end surface to enhance visibility without obstructing the user's view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the indicator is positioned to be visible to the user, then the user can check information easily, but the user may lose concentration during riding due to obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator is designed to rotate together with the operating member, changing its position dynamically. When the operating member is in the non-operated state, the indicator faces the user for visibility. When the operating member is operated, the indicator rotates away from the user's line of sight, preventing distraction while maintaining information display capability.
2Loss of information
If the indicator is made visible during riding, then information can be checked, but it causes the user to lose concentration
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator provides information periodically based on the operational state. It is visible and provides information when the operating member is in the non-operated state (facing the user), and becomes invisible when operated (rotated away). This periodic visibility ensures safety-critical information is displayed only when appropriate.
3Device complexity
If the indicator is positioned on the end surface, then it can be integrated into the base member structure, but it may be hidden from direct sight
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator leverages the rotational movement of the operating member to dynamically change its visibility. Positioned on the end surface for structural integration, it rotates into the user's field of view when needed (non-operated state) and out of view when the operating member is actuated, solving both integration and visibility requirements.
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 allows users to easily check information without losing concentration during riding, as the indicator is strategically positioned to be out of direct sight but visible when necessary, using light transmission to convey information effectively and clearly, enhancing the overall usability and safety of the device.
Implementation Method 1
the indicator includes a light transmission member provided to the end surface of the second end portion
Implementation Method 2
the indicator includes a light emitter configured to emit light. The light emitter is provided in a position where light emitted from the light emitter passes through the light transmission member to an outside space of the operating device
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device for a human-powered vehicle comprises a base member and an operating member. The base member extends in a longitudinal direction. The base member includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion has a coupling surface configured to be coupled to a handlebar. The second end portion includes a pommel portion and an end surface extending from the pommel portion. The end surface is arranged on a reverse side of the coupling surface in the longitudinal direction. The operating member is movably coupled to the base member about a pivot axis between a rest position and an operated position. The operating member extends from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion in an extending direction. The indicator is configured to indicate information relating to the human-powered vehicle. The indicator is provided to the end surface.