Motorized Bicycle Seat Post Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle seat posts require riders to stop and dismount to adjust seat height, which is inconvenient for uninterrupted riding experiences, especially for racers and those who need to adjust positions frequently, such as during steep descents.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a seat post with a user interface, a controller, and a valve assembly that allows for real-time adjustment of seat height while riding, using a motive source to regulate fluid flow and enable proportional and precise movement, including finite and infinite positioning modes, with anti-rotation bushings for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional manually adjusted seat post is used, then the seat height can be adjusted, but the rider must stop and dismount to make adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The seat post transforms from a static manually-adjusted component to a dynamically adjustable component that can be modified while riding. The system uses a motorized actuator to dynamically change seat height in response to rider input or sensor data, eliminating the need to stop the bicycle for adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment system (lever and cam mechanism) is replaced with an automated electromechanical system. A motorized actuator controlled by a controller adjusts the seat post position based on signals from the user interface or sensors, substituting manual operation with automated control.
2Ease of operation
If the seat post is made adjustable during riding, then uninterrupted riding experience is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seat post system integrates multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both a structural support element and an adjustable positioning mechanism. The integrated controller and actuator system handles both manual user input and automatic sensor-based adjustments, providing multi-functionality without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mechanism is nested within the seat post structure, with the controller and wiring harness integrated into the existing seat post components. This nested arrangement minimizes additional space requirements and reduces overall system complexity by incorporating new elements within existing structural boundaries.
3Measurement precision
If a motorized actuator is used for seat adjustment, then precise and proportional movement is achieved, but the system requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor seat position and provide feedback to the controller. This feedback loop enables precise control of the motorized actuator, allowing it to achieve and maintain accurate seat height positions while compensating for any deviations or external forces acting on the seat post.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically processes sensor data and adjusts the seat position without requiring constant manual intervention. The system self-regulates by comparing desired position with actual position and making corrections as needed, reducing the operational burden on the rider while maintaining precision.
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 seamless and precise adjustment of seat height during riding, reducing lag and vibration, improving comfort and control by allowing riders to change positions without stopping, enhancing the riding experience.
Implementation Method 1
a valve assembly in communication with said motive source, said valve assembly regulating fluid flow within a variable finite positioning seat post height mode in response to a translation of said received instructions by said motive source
Implementation Method 2
at least one set of check valves configured for at least one of opening and closing in response to said translation
Implementation Method 3
an anti-rotation bushing positioned in between an upper post and a lower post of said seat post, said anti-rotation bushing configured for stabilizing said seat post in at least one direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A system comprising: a seat post (300); a user interface (205) operatively connected with said seat post (300), said user interface (205) configured for receiving instructions associated with a height of said seat post (300) and for communicating received instructions to at least one controller (325; 355) coupled with a motive source (365) of said seat post (300); and a valve assembly (445) in communication with said motive source (365), said valve assembly (445) regulating fluid flow within a variable finite positioning seat post height mode in response to a translation of said received instructions by said motive source (365).