Human-Powered Vehicle Operating Device Modular Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing human-powered vehicle operating devices often require complex assembly processes and can be costly, with limited ergonomic design for shifting and braking functions, leading to inefficiencies and potential interference between components.
Innovation Solution
The operating device comprises a first base member with a cylinder housing, a second base member coupled via pivot axles, and a reservoir, allowing for efficient assembly and ergonomic operation of shifting and braking functions without interference, using a hydraulic unit and pivotally mounted components for compact and reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical shift mechanism and hydraulic unit are combined into a single operating device, then both shifting and braking functions can be performed, but the assembly process becomes complex and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating device is divided into separate modular components: a handlebar assembly, a shift mechanism assembly, and a hydraulic brake assembly. Each module can be manufactured and assembled independently, then integrated through coupling members. This segmentation reduces overall assembly complexity while maintaining both shifting and braking functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating device is designed as a universal handlebar assembly that can perform multiple functions (shifting and braking) through integrated couplings. The first and second base members serve as universal mounting structures that can accommodate different shift mechanisms and brake units, reducing the need for separate control systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical shift mechanism and hydraulic unit are combined into a single operating device, then both shifting and braking functions can be performed, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the operating device into separate manufacturable modules (handlebar, shift mechanism, hydraulic unit), each component can be produced using optimized manufacturing processes and then assembled. This reduces tooling costs and allows for economies of scale in producing individual modules, lowering overall manufacturing cost while maintaining dual functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling members are designed to enable self-assembly or simplified assembly procedures, reducing the need for specialized assembly equipment and skilled labor. The modular design allows components to be pre-assembled and tested independently before final integration, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Reliability
If base members are coupled using coupling members, then the second base member can be easily and reliably attached, but additional components increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling members integrate multiple functions into single components: they provide mechanical attachment, structural support, and alignment features simultaneously. By merging attachment and support functions into the coupling members themselves, the design achieves reliable attachment without proportionally increasing component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling members are designed as universal connectors that can attach different base member configurations while providing consistent reliability. These multi-functional couplings serve as both structural supports and attachment mechanisms, reducing the need for separate support structures and minimizing overall component count.
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 enables efficient assembly and economical manufacturing of the operating device, providing a compact and ergonomic design that allows for seamless operation of shifting and braking functions without interference, enhancing user experience and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic unit is provided for performing the braking function
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device is provided to a human-powered vehicle. The operating device is basically provided with a first base member, a first operating member, a second base member and a first shift operating member. The first base member includes a cylinder housing. The first operating member is movably coupled to the first base member. The second base member is coupled to the first base member by a first coupling member. The first shift operating member is movably coupled to the second base member on a first pivot axle. The first coupling member couples the second base member to the cylinder housing.