Illuminated Bicycle Frame with Selective LED Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles, such as bicycles, require multiple dedicated lighting circuits and assemblies for various lighting features, which complicates operation and control, and increases manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a master controller with microprocessor and LED lighting elements integrated into the vehicle frame, allowing for selective control and repurposing of lighting elements for diverse functions, eliminating the need for separate circuits and assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated lighting circuits and assemblies are used for various lighting features, then each lighting function can be reliably performed, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single lighting assembly with multiple LEDs that can perform multiple lighting functions (headlight, taillight, turn signals, brake lights) through selective control. The master controller selectively activates different LEDs or groups of LEDs to fulfill various lighting requirements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated lighting circuits and assemblies for each function.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated lighting circuits and assemblies are used for various lighting features, then each lighting function can be reliably performed, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate lighting circuits and assemblies into a single integrated lighting system. Multiple LEDs are combined within one lighting assembly, and a single master controller manages all lighting functions, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and installed, thereby lowering manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
By designing a universal lighting assembly that can perform multiple functions through selective LED activation, the patent reduces the need to manufacture and stock multiple different lighting assemblies, simplifying the supply chain and reducing per-unit manufacturing costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate dedicated circuits are provided for each lighting function, then each lighting feature can be independently controlled, but the ease of operation and control is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The master controller provides a unified control interface that manages multiple lighting functions through a single system. This centralized control approach simplifies operation compared to managing multiple separate circuits, while still providing the versatility to perform various lighting functions by selectively activating different LEDs based on control signals.
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
This solution enables efficient operation and control of multiple lighting functions with a single system, reducing the need for dedicated circuits and assemblies, and allowing for easy reprogramming without changing individual lamps or switches.
Implementation Method 1
elongated strips bearing light emitting diodes (LEDs) may extend throughout the vehicle, with specific LEDs being selectively illuminated as needed
Data Source
AI summary
An internally illuminated frame for a bicycle or alternatively, a complete bicycle is disclosed. The bicycle comprises at least one frame tube made from a translucent material and containing individually illuminable lighting elements. The complete bicycle includes a controller operable to control individual ones of the lighting elements, a battery, brake lights, a head piece including a display screen, a user interface, an audio speaker, and optionally, forward facing lighting elements. The controller is programmable to control the lighting elements and the audio speaker from stored programming. Programming may be provided wirelessly or by hard wired connection.