Brake Controller for Human-Powered Vehicles Using Speed and Gradient Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake systems for human-powered vehicles lack effective control mechanisms to manage speed based on various factors like travel speed, road surface conditions, and user input, leading to inadequate braking performance and rider experience.
Innovation Solution
A brake controller that programmatically controls the braking system using processors to adjust braking based on travel speed, road surface information, and user preferences, incorporating sensors and input devices to determine optimal braking modes and strengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a brake system is applied to a human-powered vehicle, then the rotary body can be braked, but the braking performance is inadequate without effective control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The brake controller dynamically adjusts braking parameters (braking force, braking timing) based on detected travel speed and road surface gradient, optimizing braking performance for different operating conditions without requiring complex mechanical control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control mechanisms with an electronic control system that uses processors to analyze sensor data and control the braking portion, achieving superior braking performance through software-based control rather than mechanical linkages
2Measurement precision
If braking control is based on multiple factors including road surface gradient, then braking accuracy is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake controller serves multiple functions: it processes travel speed information from the rider, detects road surface gradient using a sensor, determines appropriate braking force based on both inputs, and controls the braking portion accordingly. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single integrated controller rather than requiring separate systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The brake controller acts as an intermediary that receives and integrates information from multiple sources (rider input, speed sensors, gradient sensors) and translates this information into appropriate braking commands, simplifying the overall system architecture by centralizing the decision-making process
3Ease of operation
If the brake controller adjusts braking based on travel speed and road surface gradient, then the riding experience is enhanced, but the control algorithm complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake controller automatically adjusts braking parameters based on detected road surface gradient and travel speed without requiring manual intervention from the rider. The system self-regulates braking force to maintain optimal performance across varying conditions, enhancing rider experience while keeping the interface simple
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors travel speed and road surface gradient, uses this feedback to determine appropriate braking force, and adjusts braking accordingly. This closed-loop control enhances riding experience by adapting to real-time conditions while the control algorithm remains manageable through modular design
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a brake controller and a brake system that appropriately brake a rotary body of a human-powered vehicle, a brake controller includes one or more processors configured to programmatically control a braking portion of a brake device so that the braking portion brakes a rotary body of the human-powered vehicle based on first information related to travel of the human-powered vehicle, the first information excluding a road surface gradient.