Bicycle Power-State Control for Generator-Fed Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices for human-powered vehicles with electrical components lack efficient power management, particularly in transitioning between normal and power-saving operation states based on speed and power storage levels.
Innovation Solution
A control device for human-powered vehicles that includes a generator, an electric power storage device, and a component with an actuator, controlled by a controller that adjusts operation states (normal, power-saving, and power-off) based on generator output and power storage levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the component operates in normal operation state continuously, then the component performs its function with full capability, but the electric power consumption increases and the operable time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device dynamically adjusts the operation state of the component between normal operation state and electric power-saving operation state based on real-time conditions. The controller switches states according to generator output state and power storage device store state, making the system adaptable rather than static, thereby optimizing power consumption while maintaining necessary functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the component by switching between different operation states. In normal operation state, the component operates with full performance parameters, while in electric power-saving operation state, the operational parameters are adjusted to reduce power consumption. This parameter switching resolves the contradiction between full capability and power savings.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the component operates in electric power-saving operation state, then the electric power consumption is reduced, but the operation capability and responsiveness decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between operation states based on real-time generator output and power storage levels. When energy is abundant, the system operates at full efficiency; when energy is limited, it transitions to power-saving mode. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize the balance between power consumption and operational efficiency according to actual conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller periodically monitors the generator output state and power storage device store state, and switches between operation states accordingly. This periodic assessment and switching enables the system to maintain optimal performance during high-power periods while conserving energy during low-power periods, effectively managing the trade-off between productivity and power consumption.
3Productivity
If the controller switches operation state based on generator output state and power storage device store state, then the power management efficiency is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements a feedback mechanism by continuously monitoring the generator output state and power storage device store state, and adjusting the component's operation state accordingly. This feedback loop enables automatic power management without requiring complex external control systems, as the controller self-regulates based on real-time system conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to self-manage power distribution by automatically switching between operation states based on monitored conditions. The controller serves itself by making autonomous decisions about when to operate in normal mode versus power-saving mode, eliminating the need for additional complex control infrastructure and simplifying the overall system architecture.
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
Enables efficient power management by automatically switching between operation states, reducing power consumption when speed is low, and ensuring sufficient operable time for components like the rear derailleur.
Implementation Method 1
a generator configured to output electrical power
Implementation Method 2
an electric power storage device electrically connected to the generator
Data Source
AI summary
A control device is provided for a human-powered vehicle that includes a generator configured to output electrical power, an electric power storage device electrically connected to the generator, and a component having an actuator actuated by electrical power from at least one of the generator and the electric power storage device. The control device includes a controller electrically connected to at least one of the generator and the electric power storage device. The controller is configured to control an operation state of the component in accordance with information relating to at least one of an output state of the generator and a store state of the electric power storage device.