Bicycle Frame Folding Apparatus with Wedge-Teeth Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle folding frames are structurally weakened by coupling devices and lack a secure locking mechanism, leading to potential unexpected folding during use, compromising safety.
Innovation Solution
A folding apparatus featuring engaging devices with wedge-shaped teeth and a locking mechanism, including a rotary sleeve and stationary sleeve with a quick-release system, ensures secure engagement and easy folding of the bicycle frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If coupling devices are assembled on the upper and lower rods to enable folding, then the bicycle frame can be folded, but the structure of the upper and lower rods is weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into two separate parts: a first cylindrical head with a shaft connected to one rod, and a H-shaped jaw with two second cylindrical heads connected to the other rod. This segmentation allows the folding function while distributing the structural load, preventing excessive weakening of individual rods.
Solution Approach 2:
The first cylindrical head is received between the two second cylindrical heads, creating a nested configuration. The shaft extends laterally from the first cylindrical head, allowing pivotal rotation. This nested structure provides structural support while enabling the folding mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If coupling devices are assembled on the upper and lower rods to enable folding, then the bicycle frame can be folded, but the two coupling devices are not locked or fastened when the frame is unfolded, creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
A locking mechanism is incorporated into the coupling device that automatically locks the rods in their unfolded position. The locking mechanism engages preliminary to any potential unintended folding, ensuring the frame remains stable during normal use. When folding is intentionally desired, the locking mechanism can be released.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the unfolded frame, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing coupling device structure rather than being a separate independent system. The locking features are integrated into the H-shaped jaw and cylindrical heads, allowing the device to provide both coupling and locking functions without proportionally increasing complexity.
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 solution provides a robust and safe folding mechanism that securely locks the frame when unfolded and allows easy folding by releasing the locking device, enhancing structural integrity and user safety.
Implementation Method 1
Each tooth of the first teeth and the second teeth is wedge-shaped
Data Source
AI summary
A folding apparatus for a bicycle frame includes a bicycle frame and at least one engaging device assembled on the bicycle frame. The bicycle frame includes at least one first tube and at least one second tube. Each of the at least one engaging device includes a stationary sleeve disposed on the second tube and has a series of second tooth formed thereon. A rotary sleeve is fixed to the first tube and rotatably mounted on the second tube. The rotary sleeve has a series of first tooth formed thereon for correspondingly engaging with the stationary sleeve. A locking device is movably mounted on the second tube for securely retaining the rotary sleeve firmly engaging with the stationary sleeve. When the locking device is released, the rotary sleeve and the first tube rotate relative to the second tube, and the bicycle frame is folded.