Electronic Suspension Controller for Human-Powered Vehicles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing control devices for human-powered vehicles do not effectively improve the usability of the suspension system, which is crucial for enhancing the riding experience by efficiently adjusting to relative positions and environmental conditions.

Innovation Solution

A control device with an electronic controller that adjusts the suspension system by detecting relative position information and controlling a valve to manage fluid flow between chambers, using predetermined data to optimize the movable amount of the suspension components, thereby improving usability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the suspension system uses a fixed movable amount design, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different riding conditions is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to riding conditionsVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension system transitions from a fixed movable amount design to a dynamic adjustable design. The electronic controller receives riding condition information (such as rider weight, terrain type, or riding mode) and automatically adjusts the relative movable amount between the first and second members by controlling the adjustment unit, allowing the suspension to adapt to different riding conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the key parameter of the suspension's relative movable amount based on detected riding conditions. The electronic controller modifies this parameter dynamically by actuating the adjustment unit (such as a valve or pump mechanism), enabling the suspension to optimize its performance for different terrains, rider weights, or riding styles without requiring complete structural redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If the suspension system implements automatic adjustment based on relative position information, then the usability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveusabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension system implements self-service automatic adjustment by incorporating sensors that detect relative position information and an electronic controller that processes this data to automatically control the adjustment unit. This eliminates the need for manual intervention by the rider, improving usability and comfort, while the control logic is designed to be relatively simple based on predefined criteria and relative position feedback.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes a feedback loop where sensors continuously monitor the relative position between the first and second members, and the electronic controller uses this feedback information to automatically adjust the suspension characteristics. This closed-loop control improves usability by maintaining optimal suspension performance without requiring rider input, while the feedback mechanism is kept simple by focusing on key relative position parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 solution enhances the usability of human-powered vehicles by dynamically adjusting the suspension to improve comfort and performance based on real-time data and environmental conditions, leading to a better riding experience.

Implementation Method 1

The adjustment unit includes a valve that opens and closes the flow passage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid flow control: Valve

Data Source

PatentUS20240326949A1Control device, suspension, and method for controlling suspension
Publication Date: 2024.10.03 SHIMANO INC
  • US20240326949A1 patent drawing
  • US20240326949A1 patent drawing
  • US20240326949A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A control device is provided for controlling a suspension of a human-powered vehicle. The control device includes comprises an electronic controller. The suspension includes a first member, a second member movable relative to the first member, and an adjustment unit adjusting a relative movable amount of the first member and the second member. The electronic controller is configured to electrically control the adjustment unit in accordance with relative position information related to a relative position of the first member and the second member.