Bicycle Saddle Angle Mechanism Using Forward Elastic Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycles have fixed saddles that cannot be adjusted to accommodate the user's body shape or riding posture, leading to discomfort and increased accident risk, especially on inclined terrain.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus is inserted between the seat post and saddle, featuring an elastic member, lower body, and upper body, allowing the saddle angle to be adjusted by deforming the elastic member in response to the user's center of gravity, with a rotation axis and saddle coupling portion configuration that enables stable and effective angle adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the saddle is fixed to the frame, then the structure is simple and stable, but the saddle angle cannot be adjusted according to user's body shape and driving posture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the saddle angle adjustable through a rotating mechanism. The saddle can rotate relative to the seat post around a rotation axis, allowing the saddle angle to change dynamically according to user needs. The elastic member enables this dynamic adjustment by providing the necessary mechanical movement capability while maintaining structural connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the saddle assembly into distinct functional components: the saddle itself, the seat post, the elastic member, and the rotating connection mechanism. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of the saddle angle while maintaining the stability of the overall structure. The elastic member acts as a separate element that facilitates rotation without compromising the structural integrity of the seat post or saddle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the saddle is fixed to the frame, then the manufacturing is simple, but it is difficult to adjust the saddle angle for different users and terrains
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic adjustment capability is achieved through the rotating connection between the saddle and seat post. The elastic member enables this rotation, allowing the saddle angle to be adjusted for different users and terrain conditions. This dynamic feature is incorporated into the design in a way that maintains manufacturing simplicity through the use of standard elastic components and straightforward assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of saddle angle through the rotating mechanism. By allowing rotation around the rotation axis, the saddle angle parameter can be varied to suit different users and terrain conditions. The elastic member facilitates this parameter change while maintaining a simple manufacturing process, as it uses the natural elastic properties of the material rather than complex mechanical adjustments.
3Reliability
If the elastic member is positioned at the center, then the structure is symmetric and simple, but the saddle angle adjustment stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the elastic member forward of the center line of the lower body and placing the rotation axis rearward of the center line. This asymmetric arrangement creates a more stable saddle angle adjustment mechanism by optimizing the distribution of forces and moments during rotation. The asymmetric positioning provides better mechanical advantage and stability compared to a symmetric center-mounted configuration.
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 apparatus allows for real-time adjustment of the saddle angle to maintain balance and comfort, improving user convenience and riding experience by accommodating changes in terrain and user weight, with easy replacement of elastic members for optimal adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member, a lower body and an upper body. The elastic member is positioned forward with respect to a central axis corresponding to a longitudinal direction in which the seat post extends. The lower body is fixedly coupled to the seat post and protruding forward to support a lower end of the elastic member. The upper body is positioned at least on an upper portion of the elastic member to support an upper end of the elastic member
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus adjusting saddle angle for bicycle includes an elastic member forward a central axis in a longitudinal direction of a seat post, a lower body coupled to the seat post and protruding forward to support the elastic member, and an upper body including a saddle coupling portion to the saddle, supporting upper end of the elastic member on upper portion, and hinge-coupled to the lower body to rotate in rotation axis such that the saddle angle is changed for the lower body fixed to the seat post by external force. The elastic member and the rotation axis are in front and rear of the centerline of the lower body, respectively. The saddle coupling portion is in front of the centerline of the lower body and rear of the elastic member, and above the rotation axis. Thus, saddle angle is easily adjusted to improve user's convenience and riding comfort.