Wearable Wireless Bicycle Shifter Control for Stable Hand Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle control systems require riders to shift hand positions on the handlebar to operate gear changers and suspension controls, disrupting braking and visual focus on the road, and are often cumbersome with multiple power sources and complex wiring.
Innovation Solution
A wireless control system where shift control devices are wearable on the rider's hands, allowing finger-based control of derailleurs and suspension components, using sensors and a single power source, enabling seamless operation without attachment to the bike.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control switches are mounted on the handlebar, then the rider can operate them with hands close to controls, but the rider must shift hand position and temporarily control the bike with remaining hand, creating safety hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical cable-linked shifters mounted on the handlebar with wireless electronic shifters that communicate via radio frequency. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical connection while enabling remote operation, allowing riders to operate controls without shifting hand position from safe locations on the handlebar.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the control system into independent wireless electronic components distributed at different locations. Multiple shifters can be positioned at various points on the handlebar or bike frame, each capable of independent operation, allowing the rider to access controls from multiple hand positions without compromising safety.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete shifters are attached to the bar for alternative positions, then alternative hand positions are enabled, but the wiring complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical cable wiring with wireless electronic communication between shifters and the bicycle's control system. Each shifter contains its own electronic circuitry and transmits signals wirelessly, eliminating the need for complex cable routing and reducing overall system weight while enabling multiple shifter positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal wireless shifter units that can be positioned anywhere on the bicycle and perform the same function. Each unit is self-contained with its own power source and wireless transmitter, making them interchangeable and adaptable to different mounting positions without requiring additional wiring or configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete shifters are attached to the bar, then alternative hand positions are enabled, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical cable systems with lightweight wireless electronic components. The wireless shifters use small batteries and electronic transmitters instead of thick steel cables and pulleys, significantly reducing weight while maintaining the capability for multiple control positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters of the shifter system from mechanical to electronic. This parameter change enables the use of lightweight materials, miniaturized components, and wireless communication, all of which contribute to weight reduction while preserving or enhancing functional capabilities.
4Reliability
If shifters are mounted to the bar, then stable control is achieved, but the shifters need to be removed from the bar to recharge adding inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static mounted shifters to dynamic wearable shifters that move with the rider. The shifters are mounted on the rider's hands or body, allowing them to remain in constant contact with the rider while maintaining stable control through body positioning rather than fixed mounting points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the fixed mechanical mounting system with wireless electronic communication and wearable mounting. This allows the shifters to be recharged independently without removal from the bicycle, as they can be easily accessed and recharged while worn or stored in the rider's gear.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device wearable by a bicycle rider, the control device including at least one control sensor generating input signals when actuated. A control processor is connected to the at least one control sensor generating control signals responsive to the input signals. A wireless transmitter is in communication with the processor transmitting the control signals and a power source is connected to the shift control processor and the wireless transmitter. The control device may one or more of a control gear changer, one or more suspension component, and other electronically-controllable components or systems.