A CHaINLESS DRIVE SYSTEM WHICH DISPENSES WITH THE MECHANICAL CONNECTION BETWEEN THE GENERATOR AND MOTOR

 

automotive and industrial supplied shaeffler has unveiled a new bike-by-wire system. dubbed free drive, the innovative solution for bicycles features a chinless drive system which dispenses with the mechanical connection between the generator and motor, thus enabling completely new bicycle architectures and pedal configurations combined with an even lower requirement for wear parts. 

 

the central component of the free drive system is the schaeffler generator, which sets the constant resistance on the pedal while simultaneously absorbing the rider’s pedaling power. the regenerative solution is a serial hybrid drive that converts the mechanical energy generated during pedaling into electric energy, which in turn is converted back into mechanical energy in the wheel hub motor. excess energy is stored in the battery. 

schaeffler unveils a chainless e-bike drive system

A GENERATOR SETS THE CONSTANT RESISTANCE ON THE PEDAL WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY ABSORBING THE RIDER’S PEDALING POWER

 

as with cars, all system components communicate with each other via a CAN connection. the complete, optimally matched system sold by heinzmann GmbH & Co. KG, which generates a continuous output of 250 watts, consists of a pedal generator, drive motor, battery powerpack, and human-machine interface (HMI).

 

‘regardless of whether the system is used in 2-, 3-, or 4-wheel applications, the absence of a mechanical connection between the generator and motor means that free drive can provide maximum flexibility in the bicycle architecture and a freely configurable pedaling sensation, which is tailored to the requirements of the bicycle and the needs of the rider, while ensuring minimal wear,’ saod dr. jochen schröder, president of the e-mobility division.

schaeffler unveils a chainless e-bike drive system

 

 

the compact dimensions of the free drive system permit a standard distance of 138 millimeters between the two pedals. the free drive system can be specified for various applications, irrespective of the manufacturer. for fleet operators, free drive offers an ergonomic, low-maintenance, and robust system with low operating and maintenance costs, as wear parts and peripheral chain equipment are not required.

 

 

project info:

 

name: chainless electric drive system ‘free drive’

created by: schaeffler