Electronic Wheel Hub Shifting Without Pedal Force Interruption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle transmission systems often require the rider to stop pedaling for gear shifts, and they suffer from high friction losses and weight, lacking efficient, electronically actuated shifting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A wheel hub assembly with integrated sensors and actuators, connected via an electric connection interface to an external power source and control unit, enabling gear shifts without pedal force dependency and minimizing friction and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional derailleur systems are used for gear shifting, then gear ratio selection is possible, but the rider must stop pedaling to shift gears and friction losses are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical derailleur system with an electronically actuated hub transmission system. The hub transmission uses electronic actuators to change gear ratios internally within the hub, eliminating the need for external derailleurs and mechanical cable actuation. This substitution reduces friction losses and allows gear shifting without stopping pedaling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic control system as an intermediary between the rider and the transmission system. Sensors detect pedal force and transmission state, while electronic actuators execute gear ratio changes based on control logic. This intermediary enables seamless gear shifting by coordinating actuation with the riding state, eliminating the need to stop pedaling.
2Ease of operation
If electronically actuated hub transmission is used, then gear shifting is possible without stopping pedaling, but system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the transmission system and the electronic control system into a single integrated hub assembly. The hub transmission, electronic actuators, sensors, and power source are combined in one unit, eliminating the need for separate derailleur assemblies, cables, and housing. This integration reduces overall system weight despite the addition of electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub transmission serves multiple functions: it provides gear ratio selection, acts as the final drive for the wheel, and houses the electronic control system. The electronic actuators serve dual purposes by both changing gear ratios and potentially providing regenerative braking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall weight.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple gear ratios are provided in hub transmission, then versatile transmission options are available, but up- and downshifting may not always be possible depending on rider pedal force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors that continuously monitor pedal force, wheel speed, and transmission state. This feedback is processed by a control system that determines the optimal moment for gear ratio changes. The control logic uses this real-time information to initiate shifting sequences when conditions are favorable, ensuring smooth transitions regardless of instantaneous rider force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-positioning the electronic actuators and control system to anticipate gear ratio changes. The control logic monitors riding conditions continuously and prepares for shifting in advance, initiating the actuation sequence at the optimal moment before the rider needs to change gears. This allows seamless shifting without requiring the rider to stop or alter their pedaling force.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a wheel hub assembly comprising a hub housing holding one or more sensors and/or actuators, and an electric connection interface for electrically connecting the one or more sensors and/or actuators with an externally arranged electric component of an electronic derailleur, the electric connection interface being arranged for transmitting electric power and/or electronic communication signals between the external electric component and one or more sensors and/or actuators.