Modular E-Bike Controller Layout for Handlebar Clutter Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

The accumulation of control elements for electric bicycle devices on the handlebar results in an uncomfortable and aesthetically unattractive setup, and existing solutions fail to accommodate optional auxiliary devices efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A control system comprising a main controller for pedal assist and an auxiliary controller for additional devices, which are mechanically couplable and dismountable, allowing seamless integration of auxiliary devices like telescopic seatposts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If all control elements are integrated into the electronic control block at the handlebar, then the control functions are unified and accessible, but the handlebar becomes cluttered and aesthetically unattractive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accessibilityVSAvoidhandlebar appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is divided into two independent modules: a main controller (10) for essential functions and an auxiliary controller (20) for optional devices. This segmentation allows the auxiliary controller to be mounted separately on the frame, removing clutter from the handlebar while maintaining full control functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The auxiliary controller is relocated from the horizontal plane of the handlebar to the vertical plane of the frame, specifically mounted on the seat tube. This dimensional relocation preserves control accessibility while improving aesthetic appearance by moving controls away from the handlebar area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the electronic control block includes buttons for all possible auxiliary devices, then all functions are controllable, but inactive buttons remain useless when specific devices are not installed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoidcontroller configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The auxiliary controller is designed as a universal interface that can control different auxiliary devices (telescopic seatpost, shock absorbers, etc.) through a standardized mounting system. The same physical controller adapts to different functions based on what auxiliary devices are installed, eliminating the need for multiple specialized controllers.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The control system transitions from a static configuration with fixed buttons to a dynamic configuration where the auxiliary controller's functionality adapts based on the installed auxiliary devices. The controller remains physically present but its operational characteristics change dynamically according to the specific device being controlled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate controllers are used for different devices, then each device can be controlled independently, but the overall system becomes more complex and harder to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice control independenceVSAvoidnumber of controllers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The main controller and auxiliary controller are merged into a coordinated system where the auxiliary controller integrates with the main controller's housing and power supply. This merging reduces the number of independent components while maintaining independent control capability for each device through the unified auxiliary controller interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4671107A1Control system for electric bicycle, main control device and auxiliary control device for said control system
Publication Date: 2025.12.31 ORBEA
  • EP4671107A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4671107A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4671107A1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The invention discloses a control system for electric bicycle comprising a main controller (10) and an auxiliary controller (20) mechanically couplable one to the other. The main controller (10) controls the power of the pedal assist motor and can be used alone. The auxiliary controller (20), once installed, in practice implies the addition of a button to the main controller (10) for controlling any additional electric device, such as e.g. the telescopic seatpost, the shock absorbers, etc.