Bicycle Operating Axis Oblique Orientation Ergonomics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle operating apparatuses face a compromise between accessibility of the operating component for the operator and a compact arrangement on the handlebar, often requiring a flat, elongate housing orientation parallel to the operating axis, which limits ergonomic design and space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle operating apparatus with a housing having at least one flat outer surface that forms a lower or upper surface when fitted on the handlebar, featuring an operating component pivotable about an obliquely extending operating axis, allowing for compact and ergonomic placement, and incorporating a carrier element with a fastening device for secure attachment to the handlebar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the housing is oriented parallel to the operating axis at the same height, then the circuit arrangement and energy storage element can be accommodated, but the accessibility of the operating component for the operator is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by rotating the housing from a conventional parallel orientation to an oblique orientation relative to the operating axis. This repositions the operating component in three-dimensional space, allowing it to be accessible while maintaining compact integration on the handlebar. The housing is oriented at an angle such that the operating component can be easily reached by the operator's hand without compromising the compact arrangement.
2Ease of manufacture
If the housing is oriented parallel to the operating axis, then the circuit arrangement can be accommodated, but the ergonomic design and space efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry by adopting an oblique orientation for the housing relative to the operating axis, deviating from the symmetric parallel arrangement. This asymmetric configuration enables more flexible ergonomic design, allowing the operating component to be positioned optimally for the operator's hand while achieving compact and aerodynamic integration on the handlebar. The oblique angle provides design freedom for optimizing both ergonomics and space efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle operating apparatus for wirelessly controlling at least one component of a bicycle includes a carrier element on a fastening device for fixing the bicycle operating apparatus to a handlebar of the bicycle, a housing attachable to the carrier element having an energy storage compartment for receiving an energy storage element and having an electronic circuit arrangement in the housing. At least one switch is connected to the electronic circuit arrangement on the housing. An operating component mounted on the carrier element to be pivotable about an operating axis preloaded into a neutral position which is able to be deflected out of the neutral position in a first direction of rotation about the operating axis in order to actuate the switch, and the operating axis extends obliquely with respect to the flat outer surface.