Auxiliary Handle Bar System for Bicycle Aerodynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
The aerodynamic impact of a bicycle rider significantly affects speed and energy output, and existing solutions like helmets and clothing are insufficient in reducing this impact, necessitating a modification in the rider's position on the bicycle to enhance aerodynamics.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary handle bar system with left-hand and right-hand assemblies attached to the handlebar via a split clamp, featuring tubular elements and grip-enhancing coverings to provide additional grip areas closer to the stem, reducing the rider's aerodynamic profile by allowing a lowered body position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the rider adopts a more aerodynamic position by using the auxiliary handle bar, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but control and comfort may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The handle bar system is divided into multiple segments including auxiliary handle bars positioned closer to the stem, vertical members, and horizontal members. This segmentation allows the rider to access multiple grip positions, enabling aerodynamic positioning while maintaining control capability through distributed grip options along the segmented structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the handle bar system provide different functional qualities. The auxiliary handle bars positioned near the stem offer aerodynamic grip positions, while the extended horizontal members and vertical members provide additional control points. This local differentiation of function allows simultaneous optimization of aerodynamics and control.
2Reliability
If grip-enhancing coverings are added to increase friction and prevent slippage, then grip security is improved, but the overall diameter increases potentially affecting aerodynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The grip-enhancing coverings modify the surface parameters of the handle bars by adding friction-increasing materials. These coverings change the surface characteristics to improve grip security while the overall dimensional changes are minimized through selective application only where needed for grip enhancement rather than covering entire handle bar surfaces.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple clamps and fasteners are used to secure the auxiliary handle bar assemblies, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple clamping functions are merged into integrated clamp assemblies. The clamps combine vertical and horizontal positioning functions in single components, and fasteners are consolidated where possible. This merging reduces the total number of separate components while maintaining the structural stability achieved through multiple attachment points.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system decreases the rider's aerodynamic profile, enabling faster speeds and reduced energy output, with potential speed increases of 4-6 miles per hour on flat terrain, while maintaining control and comfort during long rides.
Implementation Method 1
The first horizontal member is covered with a first grip enhancing covering to increase friction between the first horizontal member and a rider's left hand thus enhancing the grip and preventing slippage
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary handle bar system includes a pair of handle bars, each secured beneath a bicycle handle bar.