Adjustable Bicycle Saddle Assembly with Expansion Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable bicycle saddle post assemblies are often complex, unreliable, and difficult to operate or maintain, failing to provide efficient power efficiency and rider comfort by not allowing easy adjustment of saddle height during riding.
Innovation Solution
A vertically-adjustable bicycle assembly with a first and second support that are slidably moved relative to each other, featuring an expansion portion that can be moved between radially expanded and retracted positions, allowing for easy height adjustment using a retention assembly and biasing members, and can be actuated mechanically, hydraulically, or pneumatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing adjustable saddle post assemblies are used, then saddle height can be adjusted, but the assembly becomes overly complicated, unreliable and difficult to operate or maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable assembly is divided into distinct components: a support structure, a retention assembly with movable retention member, and an expansion portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining adjustability functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention assembly is designed as a separate, extractable component that can be independently operated to lock or unlock the expansion portion. This extraction principle allows the retention mechanism to be simplified and separated from the main support structure, reducing overall assembly complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing adjustable saddle post assemblies are used, then saddle height can be adjusted, but the assembly becomes unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion portion is designed with inherent expansion characteristics that provide automatic cushioning and shock absorption during operation. This beforehand cushioning ensures reliable engagement and disengagement of the retention member with the support structure, preventing sudden failures or malfunctions during saddle height adjustment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing adjustable saddle post assemblies are used, then saddle height can be adjusted, but the assembly is difficult to operate or maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The retention assembly is designed to be operable by the rider through simple manipulation of the retention member, which automatically engages or disengages the expansion portion. This self-service design eliminates the need for complex tools or mechanisms, making the assembly easy to operate and maintain during riding.
4Reliability
If the expansion portion is resiliently biased in radially outward position, then the assembly provides automatic locking, but requires more force to compress for adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion portion is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to be compressed with sufficient force for adjustment while automatically returning to its expanded locked position. This dynamic design provides automatic locking during normal operation while still allowing intentional adjustment when needed, balancing reliability with adjustability.
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
Enables riders to adjust the saddle height easily while riding, improving power efficiency and comfort by allowing precise positioning of the saddle, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury from improper saddle positioning.
Implementation Method 1
the expansion portion comprises a plurality of slidable balls, bearings or other members having at least one spherical or partially spherical portion, wherein said balls, bearings or other members are resiliently biased in a radially inwardly or outwardly direction
Implementation Method 2
the assembly further comprises one or more biasing members (e.g., air springs, coil springs, resilient members, elastomeric materials, etc.) that impart a force within the assembly in an attempt to urge the first support apart from the second support
Data Source
AI summary
According to some embodiments, an adjustable assembly for a bicycle includes a lower tubular support configured to be attached to a bicycle frame; an upper tubular support configured to be attached to a bicycle saddle; an expansion portion support member positioned within an interior space of the lower tubular support; an expansion portion disposed at an upper end of the expansion portion support member; and a resilient member configured to provide an upwardly-directed force to the upper tubular support to provide movement of the upper tubular support away from the lower tubular support.