Bicycle Frame Gusset Mounting for Suspension Geometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current rear suspension systems for mountain bikes are inefficient as they absorb rider power and limit the design of the bicycle frame, often requiring complex geometries that compromise the traditional triangular main frame's benefits of balance between stiffness and weight.

Innovation Solution

A bicycle frame design with a triangular main frame and a shock system where the shock's rear pivot point is positioned behind the seat tube, allowing for an uninterrupted seat tube and a linkage system that reduces power loss and enhances power transfer, while also providing a more responsive suspension system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If rear suspension systems from engine-driven vehicles are used, then strength and durability are improved, but weight increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestrengthVSAvoidweight
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the shock absorber mounting geometry and linkage configuration to achieve optimal performance with reduced weight. The shock absorber is mounted at specific angles and positions that maximize strength efficiency while minimizing mass requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If complex multiple linkage members are used, then isolation of pedal-induced forces is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveisolation of pedal-induced forcesVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary linkage members from the suspension system. By removing redundant components, the design achieves effective isolation of pedal-induced forces while significantly reducing overall system complexity and the number of parts required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent inverts the traditional approach by positioning the shock absorber and simplifying the linkage in a way that reverses conventional wisdom. Instead of using multiple linkages to achieve force isolation, the design uses a simplified configuration that naturally isolates forces through its geometric arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Stability of the object's composition

If traditional triangular main frame is used, then stiffness and weight balance are improved, but rear shock absorber placement is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestiffnessVSAvoidshock absorber placement
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the placement limitation by transitioning from a two-dimensional frame view to a three-dimensional shock absorber orientation. The shock absorber is mounted at an angle relative to the frame plane, utilizing the third dimension to achieve optimal shock absorption while preserving the traditional triangular frame's stiffness characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

This design maintains the stiffness and control of a triangular frame while allowing for efficient power transfer and reduced rear brake chatter, enabling better handling and terrain responsiveness without the need for additional hardware or space within the frame.

Implementation Method 1

a shock with a first end and a second end... The first end of the shock connects to the intermediary tube within a recess

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS7954837B2Bicycle assembly with gusset
Publication Date: 2011.06.07 SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS INC
  • US7954837B2 patent drawing
  • US7954837B2 patent drawing
  • US7954837B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bicycle frame can have a main frame, a sub-frame and a shock. The sub-frame can move in relation to the main frame and the shock can be used to regulate that relationship. The mainframe can comprise a series of tubes including a head tube, a top tube, a bottom tube and a seat tube. The shock can connect to the main frame at a gusset connected to the top tube and the bottom tube.