Arm-Leg Bicycle Steering Decoupling for Stable Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arm and leg powered systems face challenges in providing robust steering, optimizing power transfer while maintaining steering control and stability, and achieving ergonomic practicality.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle design with independent arm and leg power transfer mechanisms, where steering levers are decoupled from crank post movement, using cables or hydraulic actuators to stabilize the front wheel, and adjustable arm linkage angles for enhanced control and balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If arm power is coupled to crank post movement for power transfer, then power delivery is achieved, but steering control is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the steering and power transfer functions into separate mechanisms. The steering lever is segmented from the crank post movement, allowing independent control of steering (via cable to steering column) and power delivery (via arm to crank post), resolving the conflict between power delivery and steering control
Solution Approach 2:
A cable acts as an intermediary between the steering lever and the steering column, decoupling the steering function from the arm-powered crank post movement. This intermediary allows steering control to be maintained independently while arm power is transferred to the crank posts
2Power
If steering lever is coupled to crank post for power transfer, then arm power is utilized, but steering robustness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The steering lever is segmented into two independent functions: one for steering control (connected via cable to steering column) and one for power transfer (connected to crank post). This segmentation ensures steering robustness is maintained while arm power is fully utilized
Solution Approach 2:
The steering function is extracted from the crank post movement mechanism. The steering lever's steering function is taken out and connected directly to the steering column via cable, separating it from the power transfer function to the crank posts, thereby ensuring steering robustness independent of power transfer
3Productivity
If arm and leg power are combined in same mechanism, then power efficiency increases, but ergonomic practicality decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power transfer mechanisms for arms and legs are segmented into separate pathways. Arm power transfers through the steering lever and arm linkage to the crank posts, while leg power transfers through the pedals to the crank posts. This segmentation allows each to be optimized ergonomically while maintaining combined power efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure include an apparatus powered by arms and legs with the legs transmitting power through foot pedals coupled to pedal arms that are coupled to a shaft offset of the pedal sprocket center shaft. Arms transmit power through a lever arm system with pivot points coupled to the frame to isolate arm power motion from front fork steering motion. Steering levers mounted on arm cranks control motion to the steering column and front wheel forks through a cable.