Human-Powered Vehicle Control Device Independent Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human-powered vehicle operating devices are not easily accessible, leading to discomfort and reduced operability for users.
Innovation Solution
A human-powered vehicle operating device with a base member, first and second operating members, and electrical switches, where the operating members pivot independently and are arranged to reduce size, with asymmetrical and inclined surfaces for easy recognition and access, and a clamp system that minimizes interference with the tubular member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the operating device is made compact by arranging operating members and electrical switches in between base member and operating members, then the device size is reduced, but the ease of operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions electrical switches between the base member and operating members along the thickness direction (first direction), rather than arranging them side-by-side in the planar direction. This vertical stacking approach reduces the planar footprint while maintaining operational accessibility, effectively resolving the contradiction between compact size and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating members are designed to pivot independently about vertical axes, allowing dynamic adjustment of their positions and angles. This pivoting capability enables users to access and operate the members comfortably while maintaining a compact overall device structure, as the members can be positioned optimally during use.
2Area of stationary object
If the first operating member and second operating member are arranged next to each other in the first direction, then the device width is reduced, but the operability of each member may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent stacks the first and second operating members along the first direction (thickness direction) with electrical switches positioned between them, rather than arranging them side-by-side in the second direction. This reduces the device width while maintaining adequate spacing and operability of each member through the vertical arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating device is segmented into distinct layers: base member, first electrical switch, first operating member, second electrical switch, and second operating member. This segmentation along the thickness direction allows each component to be independently optimized for its function while maintaining a compact overall width.
3Ease of operation
If the operating members are made asymmetric with respect to the center line, then the ease of recognition is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent intentionally designs the first operating surface and second operating surface to be asymmetric with respect to their respective center lines. This asymmetry provides tactile and visual cues that help users easily recognize and differentiate between the operating members, improving ease of operation. The manufacturing complexity is managed by implementing this asymmetry through standard molding or machining processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A human-powered vehicle operating device including a base member, a first operating member, a second operating member, a first electrical switch and a second electrical switch. The first operating member includes a first operating surface and configured to pivot about a first axis with respect to the base member. The second operating member includes a second operating surface and configured to pivot about a second axis with respect to the base member. The first electrical switch is provided between the base member and the first operating member. The second electrical switch is provided between the base member and the second operating member. The first operating member and the second operating member are arranged next to each other in a first direction and configured to pivot independent from each other.