Handlebar Shift Switch Layout for Better Operability and Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human-powered vehicle operating devices face challenges in efficiently arranging operating members and improving operability, while also ensuring easy recognition of light emitter units.
Innovation Solution
The operating device features a base structure with pivotally coupled operating members, electric switches, and a light emitter unit strategically positioned to enhance operability and visibility. The device includes a clamp for mounting to a handlebar and incorporates a light transmitting member to facilitate easy recognition of the light emitter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating members are arranged on the handlebar, then the functionality of the vehicle is improved, but the arrangement efficiency and operability deteriorate due to space constraints and potential contact between members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions operating members at different radial distances from the handlebar center axis. The first operating member is positioned at a first radial distance while the second operating member is positioned at a second radial distance that is greater than the first radial distance. This dimensional arrangement in radial space allows multiple operating members to coexist without contact while maintaining ease of operation.
2Device complexity
If operating members are positioned closer together to save space, then the device complexity is reduced, but the risk of contact between members increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes radial dimension to separate operating members. By positioning the second operating member at a greater radial distance from the handlebar center axis than the first operating member, the design prevents contact between members while maintaining a compact overall structure. This radial stratification reduces device complexity without compromising reliability.
3Illumination intensity
If the light emitter unit is positioned among operating members, then the visibility is improved, but the operating members may overlap the light emitter unit making it harder to recognize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the light emitter unit at a radial distance from the handlebar center axis that is greater than the radial distance of the first operating member. This radial positioning ensures that the light emitter unit is not overlapped by operating members when viewed from the front, maintaining both visibility and easy recognition. The light emitter unit is strategically placed in the radial dimension to avoid occlusion.
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device of a human-powered vehicle comprises a base structure, a first operating member, a second operating member, a first electric switch, and a second electric switch. The base structure is mountable to the human-powered vehicle. The first operating member is pivotally coupled to the base structure about a first pivot axis. The second operating member is pivotally coupled to the base structure about a second pivot axis. The first operating member and the second operating member are arranged in a first direction. The first electric switch is at least partially provided between the first operating member and the base structure. The second electric switch is at least partially provided between the second operating member and the base structure. At least one of the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis extends along the first direction.