Two-Stage Retaining Element for Electric Bicycle Accumulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle frame designs for electric bicycles lack a secure and efficient mechanism to prevent accidental removal of energy stores, such as accumulators, which can fall out when the lock is unlocked, especially when mounted in the top or down tube.
Innovation Solution
A retaining element with a blocking element and a locking bar system that provides two-stage retention, where the blocking element can be elastically displaced to prevent upward movement and includes a hook that engages with a second stop, ensuring the accumulator remains secured until a second unlocking mechanism is actuated, preventing accidental ejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single locking mechanism is used for the accumulator, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of preventing accidental removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent stages: a first locking mechanism with a locking bar that engages a first stop, and a second locking mechanism with a blocking element that engages a second stop. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be simple individually while providing cumulative security when combined, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The first locking mechanism is activated first to secure the accumulator in a preliminary locked state. Only after this first locking action is completed can the second locking mechanism be activated. This preliminary action ensures that the basic security is established before adding the secondary protection layer.
2Reliability
If a two-stage retention system is implemented, then the reliability of preventing accidental removal is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is segmented into two functional stages: first retention via the locking bar and first stop, and second retention via the blocking element and second stop. Each stage uses simple, well-understood mechanical components rather than complex integrated systems, reducing the complexity penalty while maintaining the reliability benefits of two-stage protection.
Solution Approach 2:
Each locking stage is localized to specific components with dedicated functions: the locking bar for primary retention and the blocking element for secondary retention. This local quality allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance and understanding of the overall system.
3Ease of operation
If the blocking element is made elastic to allow displacement, then the ease of operation for removal is improved, but the stability of the locked position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element transitions from a static rigid component to a dynamic elastic component that can deform under actuation force. This elasticity allows the blocking element to be temporarily displaced from its locked engagement with the second stop during removal operation, then return to its locked position during normal use, resolving the contradiction between ease of removal and stability when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic blocking element provides preliminary resistance to removal attempts by maintaining stable engagement with the second stop. When intentional removal is required, the elastic property allows the blocking element to be pushed past its engagement point, effectively providing anti-action that prevents accidental removal while permitting intentional removal.
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 two-stage retention system effectively prevents the accumulator from falling out after unlocking, allowing safe removal by actuating a second locking mechanism, ensuring secure attachment and preventing accidental dislodgment during use.
Implementation Method 1
The blocking element has an elastic effect that is oriented perpendicularly with respect to the second side, i.e., in a horizontal direction
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining element provided for two-stage fastening to an accumulator or which is part of an accumulator, safeguards against removal from a retaining device. The retaining device is oriented toward the retaining element and is fastened in an interior of tubes of a bicycle frame of an electrically driven bicycle.