Bicycle Shift Lever Layout for Four-Signal Control in Compact Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating devices for human-powered vehicles lack a simple and compact mechanism to generate multiple control signals using fewer components, limiting their operational flexibility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
The operating device incorporates two electric switches and two movably arranged operating members, allowing for the generation of four different control signals using a relatively simple structure, with each member activating a switch in multiple positions while the other remains activated, and includes a stroke adjuster for customizable operating modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electric switches and operating members are added to generate more control signals, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple operating members (first and second operating members) and electric switches (first and second electric switches) into a single integrated operating device assembly. The operating members are movably arranged with respect to the base, allowing them to activate different switches at different positions, thereby generating multiple control signals from a unified structure rather than separate independent components.
Solution Approach 2:
Each operating member is designed to perform multiple functions by activating different electric switches at different positions. The first operating member can activate both the first electric switch and the second electric switch, while the second operating member can also activate both switches. This multi-functionality allows a single operating device to control multiple vehicle components without requiring separate dedicated switches for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of operating members and switches is increased to provide more control signals, then operational versatility is improved, but the compactness of the design deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operating members are arranged in a nested or overlapping configuration where they share common mounting space on the base. The first and second operating members are both movably arranged with respect to the same base, allowing their activation paths and mechanical structures to overlap or interleave, thereby reducing the overall volume required compared to having completely separate operating mechanisms for each switch.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating members utilize multi-dimensional movement and positioning to activate different switches. Rather than requiring separate spatial locations for each operating member-switch pair, the design allows operating members to move through different positions and orientations (intermediate and additional operating positions) to selectively activate different switches, effectively using dimensional space more efficiently.
3Productivity
If operating members are designed to activate multiple switches at different positions, then control signal generation is improved, but the precision of switch activation control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The activation path of each operating member is segmented into distinct positions: a non-operated position, an intermediate operating position, and an additional operating position. Each position corresponds to specific switch activation states. The first operating member activates the first electric switch at the intermediate position and the second electric switch at the additional position, creating clearly defined activation zones that reduce control precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating members serve as intermediary elements between the user's input and the electric switches. By introducing the intermediate operating position as a mediator state, the system provides a transition zone that allows for more tolerant activation control. The mechanical linkage and movable arrangement of operating members act as intermediaries that translate user input into precise switch activation without requiring high precision from the user's direct manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The operating device basically includes a base, first and second electric switches, and first and second operating members. The first operating member is movable with respect to the base to activate the first electric switch as the first operating member moves from a non-operated position to an intermediate operating position, and then activate the activate an electric switch different from the first electric switch as the first operating member moves from the intermediate operating position to an additional operating position. The second operating member is movable with respect to the base to activate the second electric switch as the second operating member moves from a non-operated position to an intermediate operating position, and then activate the electric switch as the second operating member moves from the intermediate operating position of the second operating member to an additional operating position.