Bicycle Sensor Module Spool Cable Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensor modules for bicycles, particularly those mounted on rear forks, lack adjustability for different wheel sizes and rear fork types, leading to inconvenient installation and potential damage from excess cables, which also detract from the aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module with a roll-up type sensing element and a retaining structure that includes a spool piece and spool cap to manage the connecting cable, allowing adjustable placement and preventing accidental retraction, thus maintaining cable length and preventing wire damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the magnetic reed switch is mounted on the rear fork to measure wheel rotations, then the sensing function is achieved, but the distance between the switch and spoke-mounted magnet must be constantly adjusted for different wheel sizes and rear fork types, reducing convenience and adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic adjustment mechanism consisting of an adjustable arm and positioning holes that allow the magnetic reed switch's distance from the wheel spoke to be modified according to different wheel sizes and rear fork types, transforming a static mounting structure into a dynamic one that adapts to various configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positional parameter of the magnetic reed switch by providing multiple positioning holes at different distances from the rear fork, enabling adjustment of the switch-magnet gap to maintain proper sensing function across different bicycle configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If the magnetic reed switch is cabled to the bicycle frame instead of mounted on the rear fork, then adaptability to different wheel sizes is improved, but the excess cable may dangle and become damaged over time, reducing reliability and aesthetic appeal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cable management function from the general mounting structure by introducing a dedicated cable retaining groove in the rear fork, separating the cable routing from the sensing mechanism and providing dedicated protection against cable damage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the rear fork as an intermediary structure that mediates between the magnetic reed switch and the bicycle frame, providing both mounting functionality and cable protection through the integrated cable retaining groove
3Ease of operation
If the cable is bundled to the rear fork, then cable management is improved, but the bundled cable is less aesthetically appealing and may still be subject to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cable from the bundled configuration and routes it through a dedicated cable retaining groove in the rear fork, separating the cable management function from aesthetic considerations and providing natural cable routing that improves both management and appearance
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 flexible installation on bicycles with various wheel sizes and rear forks, maintaining aesthetic appeal by controlling cable length and preventing wire entanglement and damage.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet is usually attached to a wheel spoke. When riding the bicycle, the sensor module on the bicycle frame can pick up a bike's wheel rotation.
Implementation Method 2
To interact with the magnet on the crank arm of the pedaling pad, one of the reed switches has to be mounted at a predetermined position on the rear fork.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor module for mounting on a rear fork of a bicycle includes a housing, a spool piece, a spool cap, and a sensing element. A switch member is arranged on one end of the housing, while a mounting seat is recessed on another end thereof. The spool piece is received by the mounting seat. The spool cap is arranged on the edge portion of the mounting seat. The sensing element is connected to the spool piece by a cable. The cable can be rewound into the spool piece. The distance between the sensing element and the housing is adjustable by extending or retracting the cable. The adjustability allows the sensor module to be adoptable by bicycles with different wheel sizes and rear fork structures. Accordingly, various cycling parameters can be measured.