L-Shaped Pedelec Control Interface for Readable Blind Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human-machine interfaces on pedelecs lack ergonomic design for easy readability and intuitive operation, compromising user experience and comfort.
Innovation Solution
An operating device with a first, second, and third operating area forming an L-shape, featuring angled planes between 10-45 degrees, and incorporating rocker switches with perpendicular rocking directions, providing intuitive control and improved visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional flat operating device is used, then the structure is simple, but the readability and ergonomic accessibility are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The operating device transitions from a conventional flat 2D layout to a three-dimensional structure with multiple operating areas arranged in an L-shape at different angles (10-45 degrees). This dimensional change allows the display and control elements to be positioned at ergonomically optimal angles relative to the user's line of sight and hand position, simultaneously improving readability and accessibility without significantly increasing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The operating device is segmented into multiple distinct operating areas (first, second, and third operating areas) that are spatially separated and angled differently. Each area can be optimized independently for its specific function - the display area for readability and the control areas for ergonomic button access - resolving the contradiction between simple structure and improved ergonomics
2Ease of operation
If control buttons are arranged in a linear fashion, then the layout is simple, but the operation requires eye contact and lacks intuitiveness
Solution Approach 1:
Control buttons are arranged in the third operating area at an angle of 30-60 degrees relative to the first operating area, creating a three-dimensional control layout. This angular arrangement allows the rider to operate buttons intuitively with thumb movements without needing to look down at the handlebar, as the perpendicular rocking directions of rocker switches provide tactile feedback that indicates button state without visual confirmation
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of arranging controls in the traditional linear fashion along the handlebar, the invention inverts the approach by creating an L-shaped layout where the third operating area extends perpendicular to the main display area. This inversion allows controls to be positioned in a spatial configuration that matches natural thumb movement patterns rather than forcing the user to adapt to a linear arrangement
3Measurement precision
If the display is positioned at a steep angle, then readability is improved, but the accessibility of control buttons deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The display and control functions are segmented into separate operating areas with different angular orientations. The first operating area containing the display can be optimally angled for readability, while the second and third operating areas with control buttons are positioned at different angles (10-45 degrees relative to the display area) to optimize button accessibility, allowing each function to be optimized independently
Solution Approach 2:
The L-shaped arrangement creates a three-dimensional spatial separation between the display plane and control button planes. This dimensional separation allows the display to be positioned at an optimal viewing angle while control buttons remain accessible at a different spatial level and angle, eliminating the trade-off between readability and button accessibility that exists in flat 2D designs
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an operating device for a single-track vehicle, in particular a human-machine interface of a pedelec, comprising a first flat operating area in which an optical display device is arranged, a second operating area in which an optical display device and/or at least one operating button is arranged and which is connected to the first operating area, a third operating area in which an optical display device and/or at least one operating button is arranged and which is connected to the second operating area, wherein the first and second operating areas are connected to each other by a first,form a non-right angle, and wherein the first and third control areas form a second non-right angle to each other, and wherein the three control areas together form an L-shape when viewed perpendicular to the first control area, and wherein the second and third control areas have a different number of control buttons.