Bicycle Frame Structure with U-Shaped Sheet Metal Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle frame structures for electric drive systems lack a robust, torsion-resistant, and lightweight design that is also cost-effective, and they often require complex constructions and are not adaptable to various vehicle types.
Innovation Solution
A frame structure composed of U-shaped sheet metal parts with a rocker structure and a frame bridge, where the drive components and power supply are integrated within the frame, forming a compact unit with a low center of gravity, and made from heat-conducting materials for cooling, allowing for easy adaptation to different vehicle types and applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional bicycle frame structures are used for electric drive systems, then the construction can be simple, but the frame lacks robustness and torsion resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into modular components: a central housing containing the motor and gearbox, lateral swing arms supporting the wheels, and a seat post assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for strength while simplifying overall construction and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor, gearbox, and central housing are merged into an integrated drive unit. The swing arms combine wheel support functions with structural frame elements. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed while increasing overall frame robustness and torsion resistance.
2Strength
If heavy materials are used to increase frame robustness, then strength improves, but the bicycle becomes heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The frame utilizes composite construction combining aluminum or aluminum alloys for the main frame structure with strategic use of other materials for specific components. This allows achieving high strength-to-weight ratio, providing robust frame strength while minimizing overall bicycle weight.
3Stability of the object's composition
If drive components are arranged outside the frame, then access and maintenance is easier, but the center of gravity rises and stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The central housing serves multiple functions: it contains the motor and gearbox, acts as a structural frame element, positions the center of gravity low for stability, and provides access points for maintenance. The swing arms similarly combine wheel support with structural framing and component mounting functions.
4Reliability
If the frame is designed for a specific application, then optimization is maximized, but adaptability to other vehicle types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The frame design incorporates universal mounting points and standardized interfaces that allow the same basic frame structure to be adapted for different applications including rental bicycles, cargo transport bicycles, and multi-wheeled vehicles. The modular swing arm design allows configuration variations while maintaining core frame integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame allows for adjustable configurations through movable components such as the seat post assembly with height adjustment and configurable swing arm positions. This dynamic adaptability enables the same frame to be optimized for different applications without requiring complete redesign.
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 stable, maneuverable, and cost-effective bicycle frame that can be used in various applications, including robust rental bikes and local transport vehicles, with improved heat management and protection of components from external influences.
Implementation Method 1
Since the frame structure is made, at least in part, of a highly thermally conductive material, it can simultaneously serve as a heat sink
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a bicycle (100) having a frame structure (200) that comprises a swingarm structure (225) consisting of a first sustantially U-shaped sheet metal part for holding a wheel (103), the frame structure further comprising a frame bridge (219) consisting of a second substantially U-shaped sheet metal part. The first U-shaped sheet metal part is bent substantially in a first bending plane (P) to form a first U-shape, and the second U-shaped sheet metal part is bent in a second bending plane (Q) to form substantially a second U-shape. The first bending plane extends substantially perpendicular to the second bending plane.