Linear Actuator Derailleur With Parallelogram Shift Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to optimally mechanically translate linear positioning of control members into the dynamic gear selection process of derailleurs, limiting efficient gear shifting in vehicular and mechanical systems.
Innovation Solution
A wireless and/or hard-wired control system for derailleurs that includes a linear actuator, a parallelogram bracket assembly, and a motor to position a chain pulley relative to a device frame, with optional damping and digital memory for gearshift-setting values, enabling precise and programmable gear shifts through wireless communications standards like Bluetooth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a linear actuator is used to position the derailleur, then positioning precision is improved, but the mechanical translation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a parallelogram linkage mechanism as an intermediary between the linear actuator and the derailleur. This linkage converts the linear motion from the actuator into the appropriate angular motion for the derailleur, improving mechanical translation efficiency while maintaining positioning precision through the geometric constraints of the parallelogram structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional cable-based mechanical actuation with a direct linear actuator system. This substitution eliminates friction and slack issues associated with cables, improving both positioning precision and mechanical efficiency by directly coupling the actuator's linear motion to the derailleur's required movement.
2Ease of operation
If wireless control is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic gear selection functionality where the system can autonomously determine and execute gear changes based on sensor inputs and pre-programmed logic. This self-service capability reduces the complexity of manual wireless control interfaces while maintaining ease of operation, as the system automatically manages the shifting decisions without requiring complex user input.
3Reliability
If damping is added to the linking element, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates damping characteristics into the linking element by changing its material or structural parameters. This allows the single linking element to simultaneously provide mechanical connection and damping functionality, improving reliability by reducing vibrations and shocks without adding separate damping components that would increase device complexity.
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
Enables operator-controlled, precise, and programmable gear shifting in bicycles and other mechanical systems, improving the mechanical translation of linear positioning into dynamic gear selection, enhancing shifting efficiency and user control.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator that is adapted and applied to position a bracket
Implementation Method 2
A damping element may be incorporated into the invented derailleur
Data Source
AI summary
A gear shifting system derailleur having a derailleur integrable with devices having a positionable chain, belt and/or a plurality of sprockets. The derailleur includes, a frame, a linear actuator having a housing, two bracket links and a damping element. The linear actuator includes a linearly positionable arm. The bracket links and a damping element are positioned and adapted to apply a biased force against the linearly positionable arm. The damping element is coupled with both the chain pulley and the bracket links, wherein the damping element positions the chain pulley within the derailleur as driven by the bracket links. Wireless and/or wired communications and control modules and pathways are provided to enable user control of the linearly positionable arm. The derailleur may be attached to or comprised within a vehicle, such as a bicycle, a tricycle or a vehicle with more wheels.