Pedal-Controlled E-Bike Drive Without Chains or Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycles often rely on mechanical components for driving and control, which can be cumbersome, costly to maintain, and limit design flexibility, while electrical components offer benefits like increased responsiveness and user-friendly operation but require improved integration and control systems.
Innovation Solution
An electric vehicle system with a frame, front and rear wheels, pedals, a controller, and motors, where sensors and processors integrate to provide intelligent control over motor operation based on rider input and environmental factors, eliminating mechanical components like chains and cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If mechanical components (chains, cables) are used for driving and control, then the bicycle can operate reliably with simple technology, but the device complexity increases and maintenance costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical transmission components (chains, cables, derailleurs) with an electric motor system controlled by electronic components. The motor is directly coupled to the wheel, eliminating the need for mechanical drivetrain elements, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining or improving reliability through electronic control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electrical components are deployed to replace mechanical systems, then design flexibility and responsiveness increase, but device complexity and initial cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it processes signals from various sensors (cadence, speed, position), manages motor power output, implements different riding modes, and provides regenerative braking control. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanical systems into a single electronic control unit, increasing design flexibility while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the sensors and the motor, translating sensor inputs into appropriate motor commands. This intermediary layer enables sophisticated control algorithms and adaptive behavior without requiring direct mechanical linkages, thereby enhancing adaptability while containing complexity within the electronic domain.
3Ease of manufacture
If mechanical transmission components are used, then the system is simpler to manufacture initially, but maintenance costs and repair difficulty increase over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex mechanical transmission components (chains, cables, gears, derailleurs) from the bicycle system and replaces them with a compact electric motor assembly. This extraction eliminates numerous moving parts that require lubrication, adjustment, and replacement, thereby improving ease of repair and reducing maintenance costs despite increased initial manufacturing complexity.
4Duration of action of moving object
If electric motors are used to drive wheels, then riding distance and time are extended, but weight of the vehicle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes in the motor system, including variable speed control, adjustable power output, and regenerative braking energy recovery. These parameter adjustments optimize the balance between extended riding duration and weight management, allowing the system to provide enhanced range while minimizing the penalty of additional motor and battery weight through efficient operational parameters.
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 intuitive and responsive electric bicycle operation, reducing maintenance, enhancing design flexibility, and providing adaptable riding experiences through intelligent motor control and energy management.
Implementation Method 1
a first motor coupled to one of the at least one front wheel or the at least one rear wheel and configured to drive the one of the at least one front wheel or the at least one rear wheel
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle includes a frame, at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel coupled to the frame, one or more pedals coupled to the frame and configured for a user's engagement via pedaling, and a controller configured to output one or more driving signals in response to the pedaling of the one or more pedals. The electric vehicle also includes a first motor coupled to and configured to drive one of the front and rear wheels, and a first driver coupled with the first motor and configured to adjust the output to the first motor in response to the one or more driving signals.