Bicycle Control Lever Assembly for Multi-Function Switch Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle operating devices lack design freedom and operational versatility, limiting the number of functions that can be controlled by the rider.
Innovation Solution
The operating component is designed with two separate, pivotable operating elements that can be deflected independently in one direction while moving as a unit in the opposite direction, allowing for the actuation of multiple switches and control of bicycle components such as gear shifts and seat adjustments through a single device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the operating component is designed as a one-piece plastic component, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the design freedom is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The operating component is divided into multiple separate operating elements (first operating element, second operating element) that can be manufactured independently as one-piece plastic components. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standard injection molding processes for each individual element.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two operating elements are designed to move independently in one direction, then the number of operating options increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first operating element and second operating element are combined in a shared pivot mounting arrangement on the carrier element, allowing both elements to pivot about the same operating axis. This merging of the pivot mechanism reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate pivot arrangements for each element.
Solution Approach 2:
Each operating element is designed with dual functionality: it can be directly deflected by the operator to actuate its associated switch, and it can also be moved indirectly through interaction with the other operating element. This multi-functionality increases operating options without requiring additional separate control mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A bicycle control device (100) for controlling at least one component of a bicycle comprises: a carrier element (102) on which a fastening device for fixing the bicycle control device (100) to the handlebars of a bicycle can be attached or is provided; a housing (108) provided on the carrier element (102) with an electronic circuit arrangement received in the housing (108), wherein a first and a second switch (112, 114) each connected to the electronic circuit arrangement are provided on the housing (108); and a control element (130) pivotably mounted on the carrier element (102) about an operating axis (B) and biased into a neutral position, which can be deflected from the neutral position in a first direction of rotation (R1) about the operating axis (B) in order to actuate the first switch (112), and can be deflected from the neutral position in a second direction of rotation (R2) opposite to the first direction of rotation (R1).to actuate the second switch (114), wherein the operating component (130) comprises a first operating element (170) and a second operating element (180), which are each formed separately from one another in one piece and are each pivotably mounted on the carrier element (102) about the operating axis (B).