Self-Balancing Rideable Device With Pedal-Assist Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Self-balancing rideable devices, such as Segway models, cause user fatigue due to constant balancing requirements, lack of physical exertion, and limited exercise benefits, as they do not effectively utilize leg or foot movements for propulsion or balance.
Innovation Solution
A self-balancing, electronically-assisted rideable device with a pedal-assisted mechanism that includes a self-balancing module for directional control and an electronic motor for assistance, combined with manual drive modules that convert foot or hand pressure into motive force, allowing for recumbent riding and optional electric-only operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If riders constantly balance with their feet on traditional self-balancing devices, then the device maintains balance stability, but user fatigue increases and exercise benefits are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides balance control into two independent systems: automatic electronic balance control for stability and manual foot/leg mechanisms for exercise. The foot-actuated mechanisms are segmented from the primary balance function, allowing users to engage legs for exercise while the electronic system maintains overall stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic balance control system operates autonomously to maintain device stability without requiring continuous user intervention. This self-service capability frees the user's legs from constant balancing adjustments, reducing fatigue while preserving exercise opportunities through optional manual engagement.
2Ease of operation
If traditional self-balancing devices do not require substantial physical exertion, then ease of operation is improved, but exercise gains for users are not realized
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically adapts between two operational modes: electronic-assisted mode for ease of operation and manual exercise mode for physical exertion. The foot-actuated mechanisms can be engaged or disengaged based on user needs, allowing the system to transition between providing full support and requiring substantial physical input.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions into one system: automatic balance control, electric propulsion, and manual exercise capability. The foot-actuated mechanisms serve dual purposes - they can assist in balance control or provide exercise resistance, making the device universally applicable to users with different fitness goals.
3Ease of operation
If riders turn with their knees on traditional devices, then directional control is achieved, but lower extremity fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hand-actuated mechanisms serve as an intermediary for directional control, freeing the lower extremities from turning actions. Users can operate the hand controls to change direction while the electronic balance system maintains stability, eliminating knee strain while preserving maneuverability.
4Speed
If the device uses only electronic motor power, then speed and consistency are improved, but exercise benefits are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables periodic alternation between electric-only operation for speed and manual exercise modes for fitness benefits. Users can engage the foot-actuated mechanisms intermittently during travel to incorporate exercise into the journey, combining the benefits of motorized efficiency with periodic physical activity.
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
The device reduces user fatigue by distributing balance and propulsion efforts, providing exercise benefits through manual input while maintaining speed and consistency, and offering adjustable power assistance from an electric motor.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic motor may provide electro-motive force to the electronic-assist mechanism
Implementation Method 2
The self-balancing module may balance the device on the two wheels relative to a surface upon which the device is traveling
Implementation Method 3
The pedal and chain mechanism may transform physical force applied to the pedal and chain mechanism into motive force for the device
Data Source
AI summary
A motorized self-balancing vehicle is provided. The vehicle may include at least two wheels. The vehicle may include a self-balancing mechanism. The vehicle may include a manual-drive mechanism. The self-balancing mechanism may constantly update the self-balancing vehicle in order to maintain the balance of a rider of the vehicle, while the rider is engaged in human motion on the manual-drive mechanism. The human motion may include pedaling and/or stepping. The vehicle may include an electric motor. The vehicle may include only an electric motor. The vehicle may include only a manual-drive mechanism. The vehicle may include both the manual-drive mechanism and the electric motor. In the embodiment including the manual-drive mechanism and the electric motor, the power generated by the electronic motor may be combined with power generated by the manual-drive mechanism in order to move the vehicle.