Wearable Wireless Bicycle Shift Control Without Hand Repositioning
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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 increasing complexity and weight with wired or multiple power sources.
Innovation Solution
Wireless shift control devices worn by the rider, allowing finger-based control of derailleurs and suspension systems, using sensors and a single power source, enabling hands-free operation and reducing weight and complexity.
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
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical cable-connected shifters mounted on the handlebar with wireless electronic shift controls that communicate via radio frequency. This eliminates the need for physical connection cables and allows the controls to be positioned away from the handlebar, potentially on the rider's body or clothing, enabling operation without compromising continuous bicycle control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between the rider's input and the derailleur mechanism. Instead of direct mechanical connection, radio frequency signals transmit the shifting commands, allowing the control interface to be decoupled from the mechanical system and positioned for optimal ergonomics without sacrificing control reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete wireless shifters are attached to the bar, then alternative shift positions are available, but separate power sources are required for each device adding weight and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal wireless shifter design that can be positioned at multiple locations on the rider's body or equipment. A single wireless shifter unit serves multiple functions by being relocatable to different positions (handlebar, grip, wrist, etc.), eliminating the need for multiple discrete devices and their associated power sources while maintaining versatility in control positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple discrete shifters into a single wireless control unit. By combining the electronic components, power source, and wireless communication capability into one integrated device that can be repositioned, the system achieves multiple control positions without requiring multiple separate powered devices, thereby reducing overall weight and complexity.
3Reliability
If wired shifters are used, then control connection is reliable, but structure to mount shifter to bar increases weight and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable and mounting structure system with an electronic wireless communication system. The reliable mechanical connection of wired shifters is substituted with radio frequency transmission, which eliminates the need for physical cables, connectors, and mounting brackets, thereby reducing weight and structural complexity while maintaining control reliability through electronic signaling.
4Ease of operation
If shift control devices are mounted on the handlebar, then controls are accessible, but rider cannot maintain visual line of sight with road ahead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the control interface from the horizontal plane of the handlebar to the vertical dimension of the rider's body or clothing. By positioning wireless shifters on the rider's wrist, arm, or torso, the controls become accessible through body movement rather than handlebar manipulation, allowing the rider's hands and eyes to remain on the road while maintaining control capability through alternative input methods.
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.