Bicycle Quick Release Mechanism Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick release mechanisms for bicycles are heavy, which is a disadvantage for sports bicycles where every gram of weight counts, while still needing to provide reliable clamping functionality.
Innovation Solution
A quick release mechanism with a through axle that integrates a clamping device with an engaging section, a clamping section, and a tubular mounting section, allowing for reduced weight by eliminating the need for a separate steel pin and enabling the use of lightweight materials, and featuring a design with varying diameters and wall thicknesses for optimal stability and weight reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate steel pin is used to connect the clamping pad to the through axle, then the connection is reliable and stable, but the overall weight of the quick release mechanism increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the separate steel pin connection into an integrated mounting section that is part of the clamping device itself. The mounting section extends from the clamping section and provides a threaded bore that directly receives the through axle, eliminating the need for a separate connecting pin while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting section serves multiple functions: it structurally connects the clamping device to the through axle, provides threading for secure attachment, and acts as an integral part of the clamping assembly. This multi-functionality replaces what was previously achieved through multiple separate components
2Reliability
If traditional quick release mechanisms are used, then reliable clamping function is achieved, but the weight is too high for sports bicycles
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device is manufactured as an integral component from lightweight materials such as aluminum alloys or fibrous composite materials, replacing traditional steel construction. This material substitution maintains the required mechanical strength and clamping reliability while significantly reducing the overall weight of the quick release mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping section, mounting section, and engaging section are formed as a single integral clamping device rather than separate components. This integration eliminates the need for additional connecting hardware like steel pins, reducing total component count and weight while maintaining functional reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release mechanism for at least partially muscle-powered two-wheeled vehicles such as bicycles having a through axle extending in the axial direction, a clamping device at a first end of the through axle and a fastener at the second end of the through axle and with a clamping mechanism for clamping the clamping device. The clamping device includes an engaging section for applying a clamping force from the clamping mechanism to the clamping device and a clamping section with an annular pressure area for clamping. The clamping device has a tubular mounting section extending from the clamping section in the direction of the second end of the through axle and to which the through axle is attached.