Hollow Frame Electric Assist Bicycle with Internal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric assist bicycles have not been traditionally considered for public bicycle sharing programs due to maintenance complexities and susceptibility to vandalism, limiting their use for longer distances and geographic expansion in sharing programs and personal use.
Innovation Solution
An electric assist bicycle design featuring a sturdy, hollow frame with internal cable routing, a front-loading battery compartment, multi-speed belt drive, dynamo-generator, solar power generator, and modular electronic locking and control system with RFID/NFC communications and GPS integration, providing secure and durable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If electric assist bicycles are integrated with multiple cables and complex equipment, then propulsion capability is improved, but maintenance complexity increases and susceptibility to vandalism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cables (brake cables, shift cables, electrical wires) and components (battery, motor, control systems) within a single integrated hollow frame structure. This merging approach consolidates what would otherwise be separate external components into one unified protected space, reducing maintenance complexity while preserving propulsion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where cables and electrical components are routed through and contained within the hollow frame tubes. The battery is positioned within the frame structure, and cables are nested within protective conduits inside the frame. This nesting protects components from vandalism while maintaining system functionality.
2Ease of repair
If electric assist bicycles are designed with exposed cables and external components, then ease of repair is improved, but susceptibility to vandalism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all critical components (cables, battery, motor, controls) within the protected hollow frame structure, creating a unified secure compartment. This eliminates exposed external components that would be vulnerable to vandalism while maintaining ease of repair through strategic access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow frame acts as an intermediary protective barrier between the vulnerable cables/components and external environmental factors including vandalism. The frame structure mediates protection while allowing controlled access for maintenance through designated openings and removable panels.
3Strength
If conventional bicycles are used for sharing programs, then durability is improved, but suitability for longer distances is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the durability of conventional bicycle construction with electric propulsion components, creating a hybrid vehicle that maintains the structural strength and robustness of traditional bikes while adding motorized assistance for extended range capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bicycle design achieves multi-functionality by combining human-powered and electric-powered propulsion modes. This allows the same vehicle to serve both short-distance urban commuting (utilizing conventional bike durability) and longer-distance travel (utilizing electric motor assistance), expanding its applicability in sharing programs.
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 design enhances durability, reduces vandalism, and allows for longer distances and broader user participation in bicycle-sharing programs while providing easy maintenance and secure locking, making it suitable for both personal and public use.
Implementation Method 1
dynamo-generator
Implementation Method 2
solar power generator
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein include an electric assist bicycle adapted for a both personal and public use, and subcomponents of the bicycle. The electric assist bicycle can include a hollow frame with one or more cables routed within the hollow frame. The hollow frame can be configured with an internal battery compartment. The electric assist bicycle can further include a modular electronic locking system.