Bicycle Compression Ring Assembly for Stable Steering Bearings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle compression rings have a small contact surface, leading to instability and noise when additional elements causing play in the steering system are introduced, such as fork angle adjustment systems.
Innovation Solution
A compression ring assembly comprising two interlocking rings, an inner ring and an outer ring, with complementary conical surfaces, significantly increasing the contact surface area and ensuring a firm fixation of the upper bearing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a conventional single compression ring is used, then the device complexity is low, but the contact surface area is small leading to instability and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The compression ring is divided into two separate rings: an inner compression ring and an outer compression ring. The inner ring contacts the bearing inner race while the outer ring contacts the fork tube, creating multiple contact surfaces that increase stability and reduce noise without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The inner compression ring is nested within the outer compression ring, with both rings fitting concentrically around the bearing assembly. This nested configuration maximizes the contact surface area while maintaining a compact structure and manageable device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional elements like fork angle adjustment systems are added, then the adaptability increases, but the stability deteriorates due to increased play and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The double compression ring assembly is installed before final bearing installation to pre-establish a stable, high-contact-surface foundation. This preliminary structural reinforcement ensures stability is maintained even when additional elements like fork angle adjustment systems are subsequently added
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 increased contact surface area provides enhanced stability and rigidity, reducing noise and play, and ensuring a safer and more secure connection between the fork and frame.
Implementation Method 1
the compression ring (AC) is shaped as an open ring having a conical wall functioning as a wedge, thereby ensuring a suitable compression force to prevent movement of the upper bearing (RS)
Implementation Method 2
the fixation to the frame (C) and fork (H) is carried out by friction, by compressing the outer race of the upper bearing (RS) against the frame (C)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention discloses a bicycle compression ring assembly (1) configured for connecting a bearing (RS) of the direction of a bicycle between the fork tube (H) and the frame (C). The assembly (1) comprises: an open outer ring (2) comprising an inner wall (21) with at least a conical length; and an open inner ring (3) comprising an outer wall (31) with at least a conical length. The conical length of the outer wall (31) of the inner ring (3) and the conical length of the inner wall (21) of the outer ring (2) have essentially the same conicity such that, when the assembly is mounted (1), the inner ring (3) fits into the outer ring (2) in a wedge-like manner, thereby compressing it against the bearing (RS).