Modular E-Bike Controller Layout for Optional Handlebar Functions

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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 like telescopic seatposts without requiring inactive buttons.

Innovation Solution

A control system comprising a main controller for pedal assist and an auxiliary controller for additional devices, allowing for mechanical coupling and dismountable integration, with the auxiliary controller's actuation causing the main controller to generate control signals for the auxiliary device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If all control elements are integrated into the electronic control block at the handlebar, then the control system can accommodate multiple devices including optional auxiliary devices, but the handlebar becomes cluttered and uncomfortable for the cyclist

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate optional auxiliary devicesVSAvoidcomfort of the cyclist
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is divided into a main controller (BC) for essential functions and a separate auxiliary controller (CA) for optional auxiliary devices. This segmentation allows the main controller to remain compact and comfortable on the handlebar while the auxiliary controller can be mounted elsewhere, resolving the contradiction between versatility and cyclist comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If all control elements are integrated into the electronic control block at the handlebar, then the control system can accommodate multiple devices, but the aesthetic appearance becomes unattractive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate multiple devicesVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the auxiliary controller from the main controller, the design maintains a clean, attractive appearance on the handlebar while still supporting multiple devices through the modular auxiliary controller that can be mounted separately on the frame or other locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If inactive buttons are included for optional auxiliary devices, then the control system can support future device additions, but the control block becomes more complex and less appealing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to support optional auxiliary devicesVSAvoidcomplexity of the control block
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control functions for auxiliary devices are extracted from the main controller and placed in a separate auxiliary controller. This extraction eliminates the need for inactive buttons in the main controller, reducing its complexity while maintaining the ability to support optional devices through the modular auxiliary controller.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The auxiliary controller serves as a universal interface for multiple types of auxiliary devices (telescopic seatposts, shock absorbers, etc.). Instead of adding device-specific buttons to the main controller, a single auxiliary controller provides multi-functional support for various optional devices, reducing overall system complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20260001616A1Control system for electric bycicle, main controller and auxiliary controller for said control system
Publication Date: 2026.01.01 ORBEA
  • US20260001616A1 patent drawing
  • US20260001616A1 patent drawing
  • US20260001616A1 patent drawing

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.