Axially-switchable quick release lever mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quick release devices for bicycles require repeated rotation of a camshaft to determine the correct clamping length, force, and position, making them difficult to operate and adjust.
Innovation Solution
An axially-switchable quick release device with a clutch shaft and quick release lever featuring meshing and idling positions, allowing intuitive adjustment of clamping force and independent orientation of the turning portion without affecting the clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a conventional quick release device uses a camshaft that requires repeated rotation to determine correct clamping length and force, then the clamping force can be adjusted, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the adjustment process into two independent stages: (1) axial position adjustment of the fitting portion to set clamping force, and (2) rotational adjustment of the turning portion to set orientation. This segmentation eliminates the need for repeated camshaft rotation and allows each parameter to be adjusted independently without affecting the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting portion is designed to be movable along the axial direction between meshing and idling positions, allowing dynamic adjustment of clamping force. The meshing teeth portion engages with the clutch shaft's meshing teeth portion to lock the axial position, providing dynamic control over the clamping state.
2Ease of operation
If the quick release lever is fixed to rotate with the clutch shaft, then clamping force can be adjusted, but the turning portion cannot be independently oriented without affecting clamping force
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the adjustment functions into two independent parts: axial adjustment of the fitting portion for clamping force control, and rotational adjustment of the turning portion for orientation control. This allows the turning portion to be oriented independently without affecting the clamping force setting.
Solution Approach 2:
The meshing teeth portion acts as an intermediary that couples the fitting portion's axial position to the clutch shaft's rotation only when engaged. When disengaged, the turning portion can rotate freely without affecting the clamping force, providing versatile adjustment capability.
3Force
If the fitting teeth portion remains engaged with the meshing teeth portion during orientation adjustment, then clamping force is maintained, but the turning portion cannot be adjusted to different orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the axial adjustment function (fitting portion) from the rotational adjustment function (turning portion). The fitting portion maintains clamping force through axial engagement, while the turning portion can be independently rotated to different orientations without disengaging the axial connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds an axial dimension to the adjustment mechanism. The fitting portion moves axially to adjust clamping force while the turning portion rotates in the rotational dimension to adjust orientation. This dimensional separation allows independent adjustment of both parameters simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
An axially-switchable quick release device, including: a rod extending in an axial direction; a clutch shaft disposed at an end of the rod and having a meshing teeth portion and an idling ring portion; and a quick release lever having a fitting portion and a turning portion connected to the fitting portion The fitting portion has a fitting teeth portion sleeved onto the clutch shaft and movable along the axial direction and between a meshing position and an idling position. When the quick release lever is at the meshing position, the fitting teeth portion engages with the meshing teeth portion so that the quick release lever and the clutch shaft can rotate synchronously. When the quick release lever is at the idling position, the fitting teeth portion moves to the idling ring portion so that the quick release lever can rotate freely relative to the clutch shaft.