Bicycle Hub Axial Component Relocation for Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle hubs face an issue where the size of the hub body increases due to the placement of electric power generators and components between the hub axle and the hub body in the radial direction.
Innovation Solution
The bicycle hub design relocates the electric components between the hub axle and the rotating body in the radial direction, allowing the hub body to be reduced in size by not requiring the electronic board and power storage device within the hub body, and simplifies wiring with bearings and cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If electric components are disposed between the hub axle and the hub body in the radial direction, then the hub body size increases, but the electric components can be easily connected to the electric power generator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves electric components from the radial direction to the axial direction of the hub, utilizing the axial space between the hub axle and hub body. This dimensional transition allows components to be arranged in an underutilized space, reducing radial dimensions and overall hub size while maintaining connectivity to the electric power generator through axial wiring paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the hub structure into distinct functional zones: the electric power generator remains in the radial arrangement, while electric components are segmented and placed in the axial direction. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each zone, enabling compact overall design without compromising electrical connectivity or mechanical function.
2Area of stationary object
If electric components are disposed between the hub axle and the hub body, then the hub body size increases, but the wiring becomes simpler
Solution Approach 1:
By relocating electric components to the axial direction, the patent creates separate wiring paths that run axially between components and the electric power generator. This dimensional reorganization reduces the need for complex radial wiring through the hub body, simplifying the overall wiring architecture while achieving compact dimensions.
3Area of stationary object
If the rotating body transmits rotation in both directions, then the structure is simpler, but the hub body size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotation transmission function by introducing a one-way clutch mechanism in the rotating body. This allows the rotation transmission to be divided into two distinct modes: forward rotation transmission and reverse rotation blocking. Such functional segmentation enables compact design by eliminating the need for complex bidirectional transmission mechanisms while maintaining size efficiency.
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
This configuration effectively reduces the hub body size while maintaining functionality, simplifying wiring and allowing for easier connection to external devices, and supports multiple sprockets without increasing the hub's dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
The electric power generator is disposed between the hub axle and the hub body. The electric power generator generates electric power by a relative rotation of the hub axle and the hub body.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle hub includes a hub axle, a hub body, an electric power generator, a freewheel and an electric unit. The hub body is rotatable around the hub axle. The electric power generator is disposed between the hub axle and the hub body. The electric power generator is configured to generate electric power by a relative rotation of the hub axle and the hub body. The freewheel is configured to support a sprocket. The freewheel is connected to the hub body and is rotatable around the hub axle. The electric component is disposed between the hub axle and the freewheel in a radial direction with respect to the center axis. The electric unit is electrically connected to the electric power generator.