Bicycle Tire Pressure Control System with On-the-Go Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for controlling bicycle tire pressure require manual adjustment before or during a ride, which is time-consuming and cumbersome, especially in varying terrains where different pressures are needed for optimal performance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a control unit, wheel-mounted portions with a manifold, compressed gas source, air line, pressure sensor, regulator, and transceiver, allowing wireless communication for real-time pressure monitoring and adjustment, enabling on-the-go pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual pressure adjustment is used before each ride, then tire pressure can be set to accommodate anticipated terrain, but time is lost and the process is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system transforms the static tire pressure adjustment process into a dynamic one by enabling real-time pressure changes while riding. The electronic control system with wireless communication allows the rider to adjust tire pressure on-the-go without stopping, converting a pre-ride manual task into an in-motion automated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the tire pressure adjustment to serve itself through automated electronic control. The microprocessor receives rider input and automatically controls the pressure adjustment mechanism, eliminating the need for manual valve operations and making the system self-regulating.
2Productivity
If tire pressure is adjusted for different terrains, then performance is optimized, but the process requires stopping and dismounting the bike
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the rider to adjust tire pressure dynamically while maintaining forward motion. The electronic control mechanism enables pressure changes without requiring the bike to be stationary or the rider to dismount, thus maintaining riding efficiency while simplifying the adjustment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical manual adjustment process with an electronic control system. Instead of manually operating valves and gauges, the rider uses electronic interfaces that automatically control the pressure adjustment mechanism, eliminating the need to stop and dismount.
3Ease of operation
If a single tire pressure is set for all terrains, then the adjustment process is simplified, but performance is compromised on specific terrains
Solution Approach 1:
The system transforms the static single-pressure setting into a dynamic multi-pressure capability. The electronic control system allows the rider to access different pressure settings on-demand during the ride, enabling adaptation to various terrains while maintaining operational simplicity through electronic interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal pressure control system that can provide multiple pressure settings through a single integrated device. The electronic control unit with stored pressure profiles enables the system to adapt to different terrain requirements while maintaining a unified, simple user interface.
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 quick and efficient adjustment of tire pressure while riding, optimizing performance across different terrains without the need for manual intervention, enhancing speed and traction.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor in communication with the air line
Implementation Method 2
a compressed gas source connected to the manifold
Implementation Method 3
a regulator, and a transceiver to send a data from the pressure sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling bicycle tire air pressure on the go is provided. The system has a wheel mounted portion and a control unit in communication with one another. The wheel mounted portion attached to each wheel has a gas source, manifold, regulator to control air flow into and out of the tire, and a communication device. The control unit monitors air pressure in each tire, and has a user interface allowing input of a higher or lower tire pressure. Based on user input, the control unit instructs operation of the wheel mounted portion, controlling pressure within the tire.