Bicycle Gear Shifting Control With Two-Switch Synchro-Shift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle gear changing systems are not user-friendly and efficient, particularly in terms of switch clutter and response time to user inputs.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle gear changing apparatus with a controller that operates two switches to control multiple gear changing devices, allowing for various shift actions, including synchro-shifting, and employs a method to differentiate between single and double clicks or long presses to optimize switch responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches are provided for different gear shifting functions, then the functionality and versatility of the gear changing apparatus is improved, but the device complexity and switch clutter in the bicycle cockpit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling two switches (first and second switches) to perform multiple gear shifting functions through different actuation modes. Each switch can be actuated in a first manner for one function and a second manner for another function, allowing the same physical switch to serve multiple purposes and reducing the total number of switches needed in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by introducing time-based differentiation in switch actuation. The controller distinguishes between different actuation modes (first manner vs. second manner) and responds differently based on the timing and pattern of switch activation. This dynamic response allows a single switch to trigger multiple distinct gear changing actions depending on how it is actuated.
2Ease of operation
If traditional gear changing control is used, then the device simplicity is maintained, but the user-friendliness and efficiency of gear shifting is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a controller that monitors and distinguishes between different actuation modes of the switches. The controller receives input signals from the switches, analyzes the actuation pattern (first manner vs. second manner), and provides appropriate gear changing responses. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt its behavior based on user input patterns, improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the actuation parameters of the switches (timing, duration, pattern) to differentiate between multiple functions. Instead of requiring separate switches for each function, the system changes the operational parameters of the same switch to achieve different gear shifting outcomes, thereby improving user-friendliness without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Productivity
If multiple gear changing devices are controlled simultaneously, then the productivity and efficiency of gear shifting is improved, but the response time and control precision to user inputs may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the controller pre-programmed with synchro-shift routes that define the sequence and coordination of gear changing device actuations. When a switch is actuated, the controller executes the pre-planned sequence of operations, which improves response time by avoiding real-time decision delays while still achieving coordinated control of multiple gear changing devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements segmentation by dividing the control of multiple gear changing devices into distinct, manageable steps defined by synchro-shift routes. Each gear changing device can be actuated in a predetermined sequence based on the detected switch actuation mode, allowing the controller to manage multiple devices systematically without overwhelming complexity, thereby maintaining both productivity and response time.
Data Source
AI summary
A gear changing apparatus comprises a controller operatively coupled to a first switch to receive a first shift signal and to a second switch to receive a second shift signal. The controller controls at least one of a first and second gear changing device of a bicycle transmission to change a transmission ratio of the bicycle transmission to a next higher or lower transmission ratio in accordance with at least one synchro-shift route in response to receiving the first or second shift signal. The controller controls only one of the first and second gear changing devices to change the transmission ratio of the bicycle transmission in response to receiving a third shift signal, different from the first shift signal, from the first switch or in response to receiving a fourth shift signal, different from the second shift signal, from the second switch.