Bicycle Operating Device Wireless Control via Multi-Directional Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle operating devices lack a simple and efficient mechanism for wirelessly controlling electrical bicycle components, often requiring complex structures and multiple operating members, which complicates the operation and integration of brake and electrical systems.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle operating device comprising a base member, a brake operating member, an additional operating member, an electrical switch, and a wireless communication unit, where the additional operating member is movably coupled to the base member in multiple directions, allowing for wireless operation of electrical components with a simplified structure, and includes a cable or hydraulic system for mechanical control, and an informing unit for user feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless communication unit is added to control electrical bicycle components, then wireless operation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additional operating member serves multiple functions: it operates the electrical switch for wireless control and can also engage with the brake operating member for mechanical brake control. This multi-functionality allows wireless operation capability to be added without proportionally increasing device complexity, as one operating member handles both electrical and mechanical control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication unit and electrical switch are integrated into the existing operating device structure, sharing common components such as the base member and housing. This merging approach allows the wireless communication functionality to be incorporated while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the additional operating member is movably coupled to the base member in multiple directions, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additional operating member is designed with movable coupling in multiple directions (second direction and third direction) rather than fixed positioning. This dynamic coupling allows the operating member to move freely in multiple directions for ease of operation while using standard mechanical coupling mechanisms that do not significantly increase device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the electrical switch is disposed at the additional operating member, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The additional operating member itself serves as the actuating mechanism for the electrical switch. When the operating member moves in the third direction, it directly actuates the switch without requiring separate actuating mechanisms or complex linkages. This self-service approach improves ease of operation while keeping manufacturing precision requirements manageable through direct mechanical coupling.
4Device complexity
If the brake operating member structure is simplified by using the base member for movable support, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The operating device is segmented into distinct functional components: the base member provides structural support and movable coupling for both operating members, while the brake operating member focuses specifically on brake control. This segmentation allows the brake operating member structure to be simplified without compromising reliability, as the base member's robust coupling ensures stable mechanical connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle operating device comprises a base member, a brake operating member, an additional operating member, an electrical switch, and a wireless communication unit. The brake operating member is movably coupled to the base member in a first direction. The additional operating member is movably coupled to the base member in a second direction and in a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction. The electrical switch is to provide an electric signal in response to a movement of the additional operating member in the third direction. The electrical switch is disposed at the additional operating member. The wireless communication unit is connected to the electrical switch to transmit a wireless signal based on the electric signal.