Pivotable Motor Connector for Electric Bicycle Battery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive apparatuses for electric bicycles with energy storage units have limited flexibility in plug connector placement, leading to non-standardized connections and increased manufacturing costs, as well as disconnection of electrical connections during slight movements of the energy storage unit.
Innovation Solution
A pivotable plug connector system where the energy storage unit is mounted on a carrier with a pivotable holder, allowing for movement between operating and removal positions without disconnecting the electrical connection, using commercially standard plug connectors and incorporating spring-loading for alignment and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed plug connector system is used, then the electrical connection is stable, but the energy storage unit cannot be moved or adjusted in position
Solution Approach 1:
The plug connector system is made dynamic by allowing the holder to pivot about a pivot axis. The first plug connector is mounted on the holder in a pivotable manner, enabling the energy storage unit to move between different positions (operating position, charging position, removal position) while the electrical connection is maintained through the flexible pivotable connection rather than a rigid fixed connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If non-standardized plug connectors are used to accommodate movement, then position flexibility is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable holder mechanism serves multiple functions: it allows the energy storage unit to be positioned in different locations (operating position for motor assistance, charging position for cable connection, removal position for battery removal), enables standardized plug connectors to be used, and maintains electrical connection throughout movement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized non-standardized connectors.
3Ease of operation
If the energy storage unit is made movable for charging purposes, then charging convenience is improved, but the risk of electrical disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is pre-configured with the first plug connector in a pivotable mounting arrangement before the energy storage unit needs to be moved for charging. The pivotable connection is established in advance, allowing the energy storage unit to be smoothly transitioned to the charging position without risk of disconnection, and the electrical connection is maintained throughout the movement process.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive apparatus for an electric bicycle with an electric motor, an energy storage unit for supplying the electric motor with electrical energy, and a carrier at which the energy storage unit is releasably held, wherein a first plug connector is provided at the energy storage unit and a second plug connector is provided at the carrier which plug connector is connected to the first plug connector to connect the energy storage unit to the electric motor. The first plug connector is mounted in a pivotable manner at the carrier about a first pivot axis.