Adjustable Handlebar Riser Assembly with V-Shaped Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional handlebar risers for vehicles, such as snowmobiles and ATVs, do not allow for adjustable reach, leading to discomfort for riders of varying sizes or those using the vehicle for extended periods, as they require replacement of the handlebar or riser to accommodate different user preferences.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable handlebar riser assembly comprising an outer and inner member with V-shaped protrusions and recesses, a pin, retaining member, and locking mechanism, allowing for sliding and locking adjustments to accommodate different rider preferences without replacing the handlebar or riser.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed height handlebar riser is used, then the handlebar position is stable and secure, but the reach cannot be adjusted for different users or riding preferences

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of handlebar positionVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handlebar riser transitions from a fixed static structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The inner member can slide vertically within the outer member, allowing the handlebar height to be adjusted. The locking mechanism (cam lever and locking surfaces) enables the system to switch between locked and unlocked states, providing both adjustability and stability when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The riser is divided into separate components: an outer member, an inner member that slides within it, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of the inner member's position while maintaining the structural integrity of the outer member. The cam lever and locking surfaces are separate elements that work together to secure the adjusted position.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of moving object

If the handlebar is moved closer to the rider using a riser, then the reach is improved, but the steering column angle may become too steep

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereach distance to handlebarVSAvoidsteering column angle

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of only adjusting the vertical height of the handlebar, this invention introduces horizontal adjustment capability. The inner member can slide both vertically and horizontally relative to the outer member, allowing the handlebar position to be adjusted in two dimensions. This enables optimization of both reach and steering column angle independently.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Length of moving object

If a handlebar replacement is done to adjust reach, then the reach is optimized, but the cost and convenience are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereach distance to handlebarVSAvoideconomic feasibility and convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable riser assembly serves multiple functions: it adjusts handlebar height, adjusts horizontal reach, and provides a secure locking mechanism. This single adjustable component replaces the need for multiple fixed risers or handlebar replacements. The same mechanism accommodates different users and riding preferences without requiring additional parts or replacements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Reliability

If the outer member is deformed to lock the inner member, then the locking is secure, but the deformation force required is high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity of locked positionVSAvoidforce required for locking

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The cam lever utilizes curved or cam-shaped surfaces to convert rotational motion into linear locking force. The cam profile is designed to progressively engage the locking surfaces, distributing the locking force over a larger area and reducing the peak force required. The curved geometry provides mechanical advantage, allowing easier actuation while maintaining secure locking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Data Source

PatentUS9919726B2Adjustable handlebar riser assembly

Publication Date: 2018.03.20 BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PROD INC

AI summary

An adjustable handlebar riser assembly has an outer member, an inner member, a pin, a retainer member and a locking member. The inner member and the outer member have mating flat-bottom V-shaped faces. The inner member slides at least in part within the outer member. Each of the outer and inner members has at least one aperture through their flat-bottom V-shaped faces. The pin is inserted in an aperture of the outer member and in an aperture of the inner member. The retaining member is connected to the pin at one end while the locking member is connected to an opposed end of the pin. The locking member can exert a tension on the pin, pressing the outer member onto the inner member for locking these members at a selected position relative to one another.