Bicycle Handlebar Control with Wireless Switch and Hydraulic Lever

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bicycle operation devices do not facilitate easy operation of attached units, particularly due to complex wiring and the need for external power sources, which complicates the structure and usability.

Innovation Solution

A bicycle operation device featuring a clamp with a detachable and reattachable second operation unit that includes an electric switch, wireless communicator, and power supply, allowing for easy attachment and operation without external power connections, and incorporating a hydraulic first operation unit for enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a clamp is used to attach operation units to a bicycle handlebar, then the operation units can be mounted on the handlebar, but the operation becomes complicated and difficult to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The operation device is divided into separate functional modules: a clamp for mounting, a first operation unit with operation lever and cylinder chamber, and a second operation unit with electric switch. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall operation by separating control functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp is designed to universally mount both the first operation unit (hydraulic brake lever) and the second operation unit (electric switch with wireless communicator). This multi-functional clamp simplifies the mounting process and makes the device easier to operate by providing a unified attachment mechanism for different operation units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If wiring and power supply are integrated into the operation units, then the device structure becomes more complex, but if they are simplified, then wireless communication and portability are improved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring complexityVSAvoidwireless communication capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical wiring and external power supply connections with wireless communication technology. The second operation unit includes a wireless communicator that transmits signals without physical connections, and a built-in power supply that eliminates the need for external wiring. This substitution dramatically reduces wiring complexity while enabling wireless operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the second operation unit is permanently attached to the clamp, then the structure is more stable, but the adaptability and ease of reconfiguration are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment stabilityVSAvoiddetachability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The clamp provides stable attachment when in use, but allows easy detachment and reattachment of the second operation unit. This dynamic attachment mechanism maintains stability during operation while providing adaptability for reconfiguration, matching different usage scenarios and user preferences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

The solution simplifies the operation and attachment of bicycle components, reduces the need for external power, and enhances usability by integrating wireless communication and hydraulic pressure, making the device more user-friendly and efficient.

Implementation Method 1

the first operation unit includes a cylinder chamber and a piston movable in the cylinder chamber in accordance with an input to the operation lever

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentUS10913508B2Bicycle operation device
Publication Date: 2021.02.09 SHIMANO INC
  • US10913508B2 patent drawing
  • US10913508B2 patent drawing
  • US10913508B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bicycle operation device is provided that allows for easy operation of operation units. The bicycle operation device includes a clamp, a first operation unit and a second operation unit. The clamp is attachable to a handlebar of a bicycle. The first operation unit including an operation lever, and is coupled to the clamp. The second operation unit includes an electric switch and is attached to the clamp.