Pedelec Start-Up Boost Control With a Dual-Function Button
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pedelecs lack an intuitive and efficient mechanism to easily switch on and off a starting boost function, which is particularly inconvenient in urban environments with frequent starts from a standstill.
Innovation Solution
A dual-function button on the pedelec's control device activates a start-up boost function when the pedelec is stationary, increasing the support level above the general level, and this boost function is deactivated upon reaching a termination criterion or by explicit user action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate button is added to switch on the starting boost function, then the starting boost function can be activated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling an existing button (used for adjusting general assistance level) to perform an additional function: activating the starting boost function when pressed while the pedelec is stationary. This eliminates the need for a separate button, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining the starting boost capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate button is added for starting boost, then the starting boost function can be controlled, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to more buttons
Solution Approach 1:
The existing button is made universal to perform both general assistance adjustment and starting boost activation, reducing the total number of buttons and simplifying the user interface while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The button's function dynamically changes based on the pedelec's state: when stationary, it activates starting boost; when moving, it adjusts general assistance level. This dynamic behavior allows one button to serve multiple purposes without causing operational confusion.
3Device complexity
If the button function changes based on pedelec state, then the starting boost can be activated without additional buttons, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device continuously monitors the pedelec's state (stationary or moving) and uses this feedback to determine the appropriate button function. The speed sensor provides real-time feedback on pedelec motion state, enabling the control device to dynamically switch between button functions based on current conditions.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a pedelec (10) with a pedal drive (16), an electric support motor (14), and a pedelec control device (20) for controlling the support motor (14) that assists the pedal drive (16). The control device (20) is connected to a speed sensor (40) and a pedal torque sensor (44) and includes a button (25, 26) for incrementally changing the pedal torque-dependent general support level. The control device (20) is configured such that when the pedelec is stationary and the button (25, 26) is pressed, a start-up boost function is activated, so that when starting from a standstill, the support level is increased beyond the general support level by a boost value. The dual function of the button (25, 26) reduces the material requirements of the control device.