Modular E-Bike Drivetrain With Clutch for Better Power-to-Weight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric bicycles are hindered by heavy and complex motorization systems that compromise power-to-weight ratio, ease of service, customizability, and compatibility with traditional bicycle components.
Innovation Solution
An electric bicycle design featuring a motor coupled to a chainring or pedal sprocket via chains or belts, with a clutch mechanism allowing both pedals and motor to drive the cycle, and modular components that can be easily installed, removed, and adjusted without altering the bicycle's functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If traditional electric bicycle motorization systems are used, then the bicycle can be propelled electrically, but the power-to-weight ratio deteriorates due to heavy motor components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electric motor from the traditional bottom bracket location and relocates it to the rear hub, separating the motor function from the drivetrain components. This allows the motor to be optimized independently while reducing overall system weight through better component integration and elimination of redundant parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The rear hub assembly serves multiple functions: it houses the electric motor, acts as the rear hub for wheel attachment, and integrates the drivetrain interface. This multi-functionality consolidates components that would otherwise be separate, reducing total weight while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Ease of repair
If traditional electric bicycle motorization systems are used, then the bicycle can be propelled electrically, but ease of service deteriorates due to complex integrated components
Solution Approach 1:
The motorization system is segmented into distinct modular components: the electric motor, the rear hub assembly, and the drivetrain interface. Each module can be independently accessed, serviced, or replaced without disassembling the entire system, significantly improving ease of maintenance and repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows users to perform basic maintenance and component replacement without specialized tools or expertise. The modular architecture enables straightforward access to all service points, and components are designed for user-friendly installation and removal.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electric bicycle motorization systems are used, then the bicycle can be propelled electrically, but customizability deteriorates due to proprietary component integration
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses universal bicycle interface standards for the drivetrain and wheel attachment, allowing compatibility with a wide range of existing bicycle components. This universality enables users to customize their e-bike with different motors, wheels, and accessories from various manufacturers without being locked into proprietary systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorization system is designed with adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow users to modify performance characteristics, component configurations, and operational parameters. The modular architecture enables dynamic reconfiguration of the system to suit different riding styles and applications.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electric bicycle motorization systems are used, then the bicycle can be propelled electrically, but compatibility with traditional bicycle components deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is extracted from the bottom bracket and relocated to the rear hub, which eliminates interference with traditional crankset, chainring, and derailleur components. This spatial separation allows all traditional bicycle components to be used in their conventional locations and configurations without modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The rear hub assembly is designed to maintain universal compatibility with standard bicycle wheels, axles, and attachment mechanisms. The drivetrain interface uses standard chain and sprocket dimensions, ensuring compatibility with traditional bicycle components while accommodating the electric motor integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A cycle is described in which an electric motor is coupled to a chainring or pedal sprocket via one or more chains or belts. The electric motor is also coupled to a sprocket of the rear wheel of the cycle. A clutch mechanism is further included between the linkage coupling the chainwheel and the electric motor such that either the electric motor, the pedals, or simultaneously both can drive the cycle. This design further allows the electric motor to be removed and the cycle to be pedaled normally.