Single-Lever Bicycle Shifter for Front-Rear Shock Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle shock absorber control systems require multiple levers, which are bulky, heavy, and anti-aesthetic, compromising ergonomics and adding unnecessary weight.
Innovation Solution
A single lever mechanism that simultaneously controls both front and rear shock absorbers, eliminating the need for an additional unlocking lever and reducing the number of required levers to one, while preventing damage to the shock absorbers during the unlocking process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple levers are used to control front and rear shock absorbers, then each shock absorber can be controlled independently, but the device becomes bulky, heavy, and less ergonomic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control functions of front and rear shock absorbers into a single lever mechanism. The lever is mechanically connected to both shock absorbers through a cable system, allowing one lever to simultaneously control both front and rear suspension systems, thereby reducing the number of levers from two to one and improving ergonomics
Solution Approach 2:
The single lever is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls both the front and rear shock absorbers, and it also serves as an unlocking mechanism for the lever itself. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate levers for each function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full control capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple levers are installed on the handlebar, then all control functions are available, but the handlebar area becomes cluttered and weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control functions into a single lever assembly. By combining the front shock absorber control, rear shock absorber control, and lever unlocking function into one integrated mechanism, the total weight of the shifter assembly is reduced compared to having separate levers for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The single lever is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls both the front and rear shock absorbers, and it also serves as an unlocking mechanism for the lever itself. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate levers for each function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full control capability
3Device complexity
If a single lever controls both shock absorbers, then ergonomics and weight are improved, but the mechanism must prevent cable damage during unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the lever can be locked in specific positions during normal operation to maintain control, but can be dynamically unlocked when needed. The unlocking action is designed to release the lever from its locked position without applying excessive force to the cables, ensuring cable protection while maintaining operational reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism includes preliminary protective features that prevent cable damage before it can occur. The unlocking mechanism is designed to release the lever in a controlled manner, and the cable routing and attachment points are configured to prevent excessive tension or sharp bends during the unlocking process, thereby preventing cable damage in advance
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention discloses a shifter (1) designed to act simultaneously on both the front shock absorber (AD) and the rear shock absorber (AT) of a bicycle by a single lever (312).