Pivoting Bicycle Multi-Tool for Chain Breaking and Tire Plugging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle multi-tools do not efficiently address the need for a compact device that can both break and repair a chain and plug a tire, lacking a unified solution for these common bicycle maintenance tasks.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tool with a cylindrical body and pivotally coupled head that can be rotated between neutral and operable positions, featuring a cradle for chain support, an extractor bolt for chain links, and a tire plug fork for inserting plugs, allowing for both chain breaking and tire plugging in a single device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are used for chain breaking and tire plugging, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall device complexity and the number of tools required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines chain breaking and tire plugging functions into a single multi-tool device. The head assembly integrates a chain breaker mechanism with a tire plug fork, allowing both functions to be performed with one tool rather than requiring separate tools for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-tool is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple bicycle maintenance tasks. The head can be configured with different components (chain breaker or tire plug fork) to address different bicycle repair needs, making it a versatile tool for various maintenance scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If a compact multi-tool is designed to perform multiple functions, then convenience is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-tool is divided into distinct modular components including a handle, a head assembly, and interchangeable functional components. The head can be separated and reconfigured depending on whether chain breaking or tire plugging is needed, allowing the tool to maintain simplicity for each specific task while providing versatility when combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The head assembly is designed to be rotatable and reconfigurable relative to the handle. This dynamic configuration allows the user to switch between different functional components (chain breaker or tire plug fork) by rotating or detaching the head, providing ease of operation while maintaining a compact form factor.
3Quantity of substance
If a single tool performs both chain breaking and tire plugging, then the quantity of tools is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is manufactured as separate modular components (handle, head, functional attachments) that can be produced independently using standard manufacturing processes. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately with simpler processes, then assembled into the complete multi-functional tool, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The head assembly serves as a universal component that can accommodate different functional attachments (chain breaker or tire plug fork). This universal design allows manufacturers to produce the head in larger quantities as a standard component, reducing per-unit manufacturing complexity while enabling multiple functions through interchangeable attachments.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-tool includes a cylindrical body and a head extended from an end of the cylindrical body, the head to be pivoted between a first position with the head aligned with the cylindrical body and a second position with the head oriented at an angle to the cylindrical body, the head including a cradle to support a segment of a roller chain.