Bicycle Drive System Chain Assembly Without Breaking Loop
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current bicycle drive systems require breaking and re-establishing the closed-loop configuration of the chain for assembly and replacement, leading to labor-intensive processes, potential inconsistencies in chain length, exposure to debris, and aesthetically flawed designs, necessitating improved methods for chain assembly and replacement without breaking the loop.
Innovation Solution
The drive system positions the power transmitting element such that it forms a closed-loop configuration without requiring breaking, using idler wheels to redirect the chain paths from outside the frame to inside on the same side, allowing assembly and replacement without breaking the loop, reducing debris exposure, and enhancing aesthetics by minimizing chain guard size and improving alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the chain is configured in a closed-loop manner around the frame, then the chain cannot be simply removed or assembled without breaking the loop, but this leads to labor-intensive manual assembly and replacement processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a frame member that acts as an intermediary element, positioned such that the chain crosses from outside to inside the frame on the same side. This intermediary structure enables the chain to be assembled and removed by simply passing it over the frame member, eliminating the need to break the closed-loop configuration while maintaining assembly simplicity
2Stability of the object's composition
If the chain is configured in a closed-loop manner around the frame, then structural stability is improved, but chain replacement becomes inconvenient requiring trips to bicycle shops
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member serves as a mediator that allows the chain to be easily removed and reinstalled by consumers themselves. The chain can be slipped over the frame member without breaking the loop, enabling convenient at-home replacement and eliminating the need for specialized tools or professional shop visits
3Stability of the object's composition
If the upper and lower chain portions are spaced apart significantly, then the closed-loop configuration is maintained, but the chain guard size increases and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By positioning the frame member such that both upper and lower chain portions cross to the inside of the frame on the same side, the chain paths are brought closer together. This reduces the vertical spacing between chain portions, allowing for a more compact and aesthetically pleasing chain guard design while preserving the closed-loop configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A pedaled vehicle includes a frame having a crank for receiving a power input from a rider, a wheel rotatably coupled to the frame, and a drive system. The drive system includes a first sprocket operatively coupled to the crank, a second sprocket operatively coupled to the wheel, and a power transmitting element operatively coupled to the first and second sprockets for transmitting the power input from the rider at the crank to the wheel for moving the pedaled vehicle. The power transmitting element forms a closed-loop configuration and is arranged relative to the frame such that the power transmitting element is configured to be assembled to the vehicle or replaced on the vehicle without having to break the closed-loop configuration of the power transmitting element.