Telescopic Controller With Dual Positioning Modes for Bike Operability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current telescopic apparatus controllers for human-powered vehicles lack flexibility and simplicity in operating modes, leading to suboptimal operability and user experience.

Innovation Solution

A telescopic apparatus controller that allows for multiple operating modes, including the ability to selectively position the telescopic apparatus between predetermined positions and end positions, with a memory to store setting information and communicate with external devices, using actuators like electric motors and position sensors for precise control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the telescopic apparatus uses a single operating mode with limited position selection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the operability and user experience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveoperabilityVSAvoidoperating mode complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between two distinct operating modes (first operating mode with selective predetermined positions and second operating mode with arbitrary positioning) based on user input, allowing the control system to adapt its functionality. This dynamic mode switching enables the apparatus to provide simplified operation when needed while offering advanced flexibility when required, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the telescopic apparatus provides arbitrary positioning capability, then the versatility is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of predefined positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidoperability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning functionality is segmented into two distinct operating modes: the first operating mode provides discrete predetermined positions (first and second predetermined positions) for simplified operation, while the second operating mode enables continuous arbitrary positioning between end positions. Users can select the appropriate mode based on their needs, thereby enjoying both the simplicity of predefined positions and the flexibility of arbitrary positioning without compromise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the controller stores multiple setting information for different operating modes, then the adaptability is improved, but the memory requirements and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomizable settingsVSAvoidmemory and control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed with multi-functionality to handle both operating modes within a single unified control architecture. The memory stores setting information for both the first operating mode (predetermined positions) and the second operating mode (arbitrary positioning), allowing the same controller to serve multiple functions without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode, thereby minimizing additional complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enhances the operability and user experience by simplifying mode changes and improving the telescopic apparatus's positioning accuracy and convenience, allowing for customizable settings and wireless communication for seamless integration with external devices.

Implementation Method 1

an actuator configured to telescopically displace the first tube relative to the second tube

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric motor: Linear Motor

Implementation Method 2

using actuators like electric motors and position sensors for precise control

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPosition detection:

Data Source

PatentUS11780519B2Telescopic apparatus controller, telescopic apparatus operating system, and telescopic apparatus
Publication Date: 2023.10.10 SHIMANO INC
  • US11780519B2 patent drawing
  • US11780519B2 patent drawing
  • US11780519B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A telescopic apparatus controller for a human-powered vehicle comprises a controller configured to control a telescopic apparatus in one of a plurality of operating modes. The plurality of operating modes includes a first operating mode in which a reference portion of the telescopic apparatus is selectively arranged to one of a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position, and a second operating mode in which the reference portion of the telescopic apparatus is arbitrarily arranged between a first end position and a second end position.