Bicycle Balance Trainer with Pivoting Tire Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cyclists face challenges in safely training for balancing on a single bicycle wheel and require a device that can serve multiple functions such as a balance trainer, service stand, and bike storage, as existing solutions are often bulky and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional apparatus comprising a base support member, secondary support member, and lateral support members that can pivot and adjust to secure a bicycle tire, allowing for balance training while also supporting a service stand or acting as a bike storage device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single device is designed to serve multiple functions (balance trainer, service stand, storage), then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed with a base support member and secondary support member that can perform multiple functions: serving as a balance trainer when the tire is secured, acting as a service stand when the secondary support member is in vertical orientation, and functioning as bike storage when collapsed. This multi-functional design directly addresses the need for versatility while managing complexity through shared structural components.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus employs pivotable connections between the base support member and secondary support member, allowing the structure to dynamically adjust between different configurations and functions. The lateral support members can also pivot between expanded and collapsed positions, enabling the device to adapt its form factor for different uses without requiring multiple separate devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing service stands and storage devices are used, then functionality is provided, but they occupy valuable space and are expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus consolidates multiple functions (balance training, service stand, storage) into a single device, eliminating the need for separate bulky equipment for each function. This reduces the total space required while maintaining all necessary functionalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral support members can be collapsed into a compact configuration, and the secondary support member can be positioned vertically to minimize the apparatus's footprint when not in use, effectively nesting the functional elements to reduce space occupation.
Data Source
AI summary
A bike balance trainer apparatus for training a rider to balance on a single wheel of a bicycle and including a mount for a service stand and an attachment to allow it to act as a bike stand or storage apparatus is provided. The apparatus may have a base support member and a tire retention member movably connected to the base support member about a first pivot.