Single-Button Bicycle Shifting With Timing-Based Direction Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle shifting systems with automatic shifting algorithms require manual override using two buttons, which can be confusing and non-intuitive, especially in technical riding situations, and may lead to accidental multiple shifts during rough terrain or high-intensity scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A single button is used for both inboard and outboard gear shift corrections, with the processor determining the direction of the shift based on user input timing and adjusting the automatic shifting algorithm to prevent accidental shifts and enhance user intuitiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single button is used for both inboard and outboard gear shift corrections, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for timing-based direction determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate control buttons (inboard shift button and outboard shift button) into a single button that performs both functions. The button is configured to detect press direction (left press for inboard, right press for outboard) or press timing relative to automatic shift events, allowing one physical component to replace two while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic functionality where the single button's behavior changes based on timing context. When pressed within a predetermined time window after an automatic shift event, the button reverses the automatic shift direction. When pressed outside this window, it performs standard manual shifting. This dynamic response allows one button to adapt to different riding scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If the processor determines shift direction based on user input timing, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing a predetermined time window before processing the button press. The processor is pre-configured with the time threshold that defines when a press constitutes a reversal command versus a standard shift command. This preliminary setup simplifies the measurement process during actual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from timing measurements to determine button function. The processor measures the time interval between the automatic shift event and the button press, then uses this feedback to decide whether to execute a reversal shift or a standard shift. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adapt its response based on user intent inferred from timing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the automatic shifting algorithm adjusts cadence range based on shift direction, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the cadence band (shifting threshold range) based on the determined shift direction. When an inboard shift is detected, the system expands or shifts the cadence band downward; when an outboard shift is detected, it expands or shifts the band upward. This dynamic adaptation allows the automatic shifting algorithm to anticipate rider intent and adjust its triggering parameters in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling electronic shifting of a bicycle includes identifying, by a processor, a first gear shift command from the processor. The processor determines a first shift direction based on the first gear shift command, initiates a shift in the first shift direction based on the first gear shift command, and identifies a second gear shift command from a shifting device of the bicycle. The processor determines a time period between the identifying of the first gear command and the identifying of the second gear command, and compares the determined time period to a predetermined time period. The processor controls the electronic shifting of the bicycle, such that the bicycle shifts in a second direction when, based on the comparing, the determined time period is less than the predetermined time period. The second direction is opposite the first direction.