Flexible E-Bike Charging and Anchoring System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing e-bike rental systems require large spaces for installation, are not adaptable to different bike types, and do not allow individual users to securely charge and store their own bicycles, leading to concerns about autonomy and theft.
Innovation Solution
A versatile stowage and charging system using flexible securing links and a charging terminal that can be adapted to any electric bicycle, incorporating a reversible lockable anchoring member and electrical connectors for secure charging and anchoring, allowing for public space use without additional infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated charging stations with interface terminals are installed for e-bike rental systems, then secure docking and charging functionality is provided, but the station occupies large space (10-20 square meters or more)
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the charging interface from the anchoring function. The flexible cable with connector allows charging to be delivered through the anchoring mechanism itself, eliminating the need for separate dedicated charging stations. This segmentation reduces the station footprint while maintaining secure docking and charging capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring device is designed to serve multiple functions: mechanical securing of the bicycle and electrical charging connection. The same flexible cable system that anchors the bike also delivers power, making the anchoring device universal for both security and energy replenishment purposes.
2Reliability
If manufacturer-specific anchoring and charging systems are used, then secure docking is achieved, but the system is not adaptable to different bike types
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring device incorporates a universal connector design that can interface with various bicycle frame types and charging ports. The flexible cable system with standardized electrical connector allows the same anchoring device to securely dock and charge different bike models from various manufacturers.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cable provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the anchoring device to accommodate different bike positions and orientations. The flexibility enables the connector to reach various charging ports on different bike types while maintaining secure mechanical anchoring.
3Reliability
If conventional fixed points (posts, barriers) are used for securing bikes, then anchoring is provided, but monitoring and alarm functions are unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring device merges mechanical securing functions with electronic monitoring and alarm capabilities. The same flexible cable system that provides physical anchoring also incorporates sensors and communication elements that detect theft attempts and alert authorities, combining security functions in a single integrated system.
4Extent of automation
If standard electric bicycles are converted to fleet bicycles for automated rental, then rental service is enabled, but the bikes cannot be easily returned to standard state for resale
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring device is designed with preliminary consideration for reversibility. The connector and electrical interface are installed in a manner that allows easy removal and restoration of the bicycle to its original state, enabling the bike to be returned to standard configuration for resale after rental service.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a securing and charging system for an electric bicycle equipped with a first anchoring element (111), adaptable to existing equipment, and allowing securing and electrical connection in a single operation. According to the invention, the system (100) comprises a flexible tether (120) equipped with a second anchoring element (121) to a charging station (130) and includes: • a first connector (112), carried by the bicycle, comprising electrical contact pins (112a) connected to a power cable (113) from a bicycle battery; and • a second connector (122), carried by the flexible tether, and comprising electrical contact pins (122a) connected to a charging cable (123) connected to the station (130); the pins (112a, 122a) of the connectors being arranged so as to be in contact with each other when the anchoring members (111, 121) are in the anchoring position.