Bicycle Chain Tensioner Dynamo for Self-Powered Electrical Components
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Bicycles equipped with electrical components require a reliable power source, but existing solutions like batteries or wheel hub generators may not be sufficient to sustain continuous operation of electrically controlled shifting systems.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle chain tensioner device comprising a base member, pulley, and electrical storage unit, where the pulley includes a dynamo that generates electrical energy as it is rotated by the bicycle chain, storing this energy for use in electrical components such as internally geared hubs and computer units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a battery is used as a power source for electrical components, then the electrical components can operate, but the battery requires periodic replacement or recharging which interrupts operation
Solution Approach 1:
The chain tensioner device generates its own electrical energy through the dynamo during normal chain operation, making the system self-sustaining without external battery replacement or recharging. The tensioner leverages the existing chain movement to produce electricity, converting a passive mechanical component into an active power-generating system.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a wheel hub generator is used as a power source, then electrical energy can be generated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the chain tensioner mechanism with a dynamo to create a single integrated component that performs both chain tensioning and electrical energy generation. This eliminates the need for a separate wheel hub generator, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining power generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The chain tensioner device is designed to perform multiple functions: it maintains proper chain tension and simultaneously generates electrical energy. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated separate systems for each function, simplifying the overall bicycle electrical power system.
3Reliability
If additional power sources are added to sustain electrical components, then continuous operation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chain tensioner device generates its own electrical energy through the dynamo during normal chain operation, making the system self-sustaining without external battery replacement or recharging. The tensioner leverages the existing chain movement to produce electricity, converting a passive mechanical component into an active power-generating system.
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
Provides a self-sustaining power source for electrical bicycle components, enabling continuous operation of systems like internally geared hubs and computer units without the need for additional batteries or wheel hub generators, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of electrical bicycle systems.
Implementation Method 1
The pulley includes a dynamo that generates electrical energy in response to the pulley being rotated by a bicycle chain
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle chain tensioner device is basically provided with a base member, a pulley and an electrical storage unit. The pulley is supported by the base member. The pulley includes a dynamo that generates electrical energy in response to the pulley being rotated by a bicycle chain. The electrical storage unit is disposed on the base member and electrically coupled to the dynamo to store electrical energy generated by the dynamo.