Electronic Handlebar Control Actuator Lever Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handlebar control systems for vehicles, such as bicycles and motorcycles, have limited functionality and are mechanically cumbersome, lacking efficient mechanisms for controlling brakes, gears, and other essential vehicle functions.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electronic handlebar control system that includes a housing, actuator lever, and brake actuator, allowing for pivotable operation to activate brakes and other vehicle components, with optional features like a palm rest, brake light switch, and gear shift actuators, enabling intuitive control of vehicle functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical devices such as levers and dials are used for handlebar controls, then the control mechanism is simple and reliable, but the functionality is limited and operation is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic handlebar control system integrates multiple vehicle functions (brake activation, gear shifting, throttle control, indicator operation) into a single unified control interface on the handlebar, allowing one component to perform multiple functions that previously required separate mechanical devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical levers and dials with electronic sensors, switches, and actuators that detect user input and transmit signals electronically to control vehicle functions, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while expanding functionality
2Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical controls are used, then the device structure is simple, but the ease of operation is poor and control efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system automatically detects user inputs through sensors and switches, processes the signals through control logic, and actuates the appropriate vehicle functions without requiring complex manual manipulation, making the system easier to operate while managing complexity through automation
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses movable components such as pivotable levers and rotatable thumb wheels that can dynamically change position to indicate different functions or states, providing intuitive visual feedback to the operator while maintaining simple physical interactions
3Productivity
If electronic controls are integrated into the handlebar, then functionality and control efficiency are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system is divided into modular functional components including separate sensors for brake, gear, throttle, and indicator controls, each with its own actuator and control logic, allowing independent development, testing, and maintenance of each function while working together as an integrated system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides enhanced control and functionality, allowing users to efficiently operate brakes, gears, and other components with ease, improving user experience and safety by integrating electronic controls into the handlebar.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator lever includes a distal portion pivotably mounted to the housing and wrapping partway around the housed portion of the handlebar. The actuator lever is pivotable between actuation and non-actuation positions with respect to the housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A handlebar control for use with a vehicle operated by a user. The vehicle includes a handlebar operable to steer the vehicle and at least one brake configured to slow the vehicle when the at least one brake is activated. The handlebar control includes an actuator assembly mounted on the handlebar and configured to be actuated manually by a hand of the user. When actuated, the actuator assembly being configured to activate the at least one brake and/or another component of the vehicle.