Bicycle Locking Apparatus Rotating Unit Reduces Component Count
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking apparatuses for bicycles, especially those at public stations, have complex structures, high manufacturing costs, and require significant force to operate, leading to high failure rates and difficulties in management and repair.
Innovation Solution
A locking apparatus with a rotating unit, locking and ejecting members, and a controlling portion that allows smooth operation and simple structure, enabling easy locking and unlocking of bicycles to public stations with reduced component complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking apparatus uses two rods installed through left and right sides for locking effect, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from the conventional two-rod locking system. By using a single blocking member instead of two rods, the design removes redundant parts while maintaining the core locking function, thus reducing complexity without sacrificing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the locking element and the structural component that interfaces with the rotating unit. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts needed while maintaining effective locking capability
2Reliability
If a conventional locking apparatus uses multiple components for locking effect, then the locking reliability is improved, but the force required to operate the blocking member increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rotating unit that rotates between a first position (unlocking) and a second position (locking). This dynamic mechanism allows the blocking member to be engaged or disengaged from the locking groove through rotation, reducing the force needed compared to linear pushing motions in conventional designs
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a linear pushing motion to a rotational motion. By changing the dimension of operation from linear to angular, the mechanical advantage is improved, allowing easier operation with less force required to engage or disengage the locking member
3Reliability
If a locking apparatus has a complicated structure for effective locking, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apparatus is segmented into distinct functional modules: a body, a rotating unit, a blocking member, and a locking groove. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard machining processes, simplifying production and enabling easier replacement or repair of individual parts
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex mechanism to achieve simple locking, the patent inverts the approach by using a simple rotating block with a groove that passively engages the locking member. This inverted design achieves reliable locking through geometric constraint rather than complex mechanical action, greatly simplifying manufacture
Data Source
AI summary
A locking apparatus for a bicycle is provided. The locking apparatus is for locking with a public bicycle station and includes a body, a locking portion and a controlling portion. The body is connected to the bicycle. The locking portion is located on one side of the body and includes a rotating unit, a locking member and an ejecting member. The rotating unit includes a locking groove, wherein a locking head can be inserted into the locking groove, and the rotating unit is rotated between a first position and a second position. When the rotating unit is located at the first position, the ejecting member is corresponded to the locking member and is ejected from the locking groove. The controlling portion is located on the other side of the body and includes an operating unit rotatably coupled to the rotating unit.