Bicycle Shock End Mounts for High-Frequency Vibration Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle suspension systems face challenges in effectively absorbing high-frequency vibrations and maintaining comfort due to the need to overcome static friction in shock absorbers, leading to delayed movement and transmission of vibrations to the rider.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of shock end mounts with elastomeric members that enable relative movement between frame attachment portions before the breakaway force of the shock absorber is reached, allowing for quicker absorption of vibrations and reducing the transmission of high-frequency vibrations to the rider.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional shock absorbers are used directly coupled to the frame, then the structure is simple and compact, but high-frequency vibrations are transmitted to the rider due to static friction delaying movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces shock end mounts as intermediary components between the shock absorber and the frame. These mounts include elastomeric members that act as mediators to decouple the direct connection, allowing the shock absorber to move independently and absorb high-frequency vibrations before they reach the frame and rider.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system is segmented into distinct functional components: the shock absorber for primary suspension, and shock end mounts with elastomeric members for vibration isolation. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in specific vibration frequency ranges, improving overall vibration absorption without requiring a completely redesigned integrated system.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If shock absorbers are designed to absorb high-frequency vibrations quickly, then rider comfort is improved, but the shock absorber size and stroke length must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration absorption function is segmented between two components: shock end mounts with elastomeric members that handle high-frequency vibrations through their compliant material properties, and the shock absorber that handles lower-frequency suspension. This allows the shock absorber to maintain its original size and stroke length while still achieving effective high-frequency vibration absorption through the combined system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters of the shock end mounts by using elastomeric materials with specific durometer ratings and dimensional specifications. These parameter changes allow the end mounts to provide the necessary compliance and vibration absorption without requiring changes to the shock absorber's physical dimensions or stroke length.
3Strength
If elastomeric members are positioned inside the region between frame attachment portions, then they can directly cushion shocks, but they interfere with the shock absorber's movement and reduce effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric members are positioned in a different spatial dimension - outside the region between the first and second frame attachment portions. This dimensional relocation allows them to provide shock cushioning through lateral compliance without interfering with the axial movement of the shock absorber between its attachment points, resolving the conflict between cushioning capability and movement freedom.
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
This solution enhances the comfort and confidence of the rider by improving shock absorption and reducing vibrations felt during riding, while maintaining the size and stroke length of the shock absorber, thus providing additional compression and extension force cushioning.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric member to enable relative movement between the shock absorber and the first frame attachment portion
Implementation Method 2
an elastomeric member to enable relative movement between the shock absorber and the first frame attachment portion
Implementation Method 3
a shock absorber including a spring and a damper configured in a telescoping arrangement
Implementation Method 4
a shock absorber including a spring and a damper configured in a telescoping arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
Example bicycle suspension components are described herein. An example suspension component includes a spring and a damper configured in a telescoping arrangement. The shock absorber has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The second end has an eyelet. The example suspension component also includes a shock end mount coupled to the first end of the shock absorber. The shock end mount includes a frame bracket. The frame bracket includes a first frame attachment portion to be coupled to a frame of the bicycle. The eyelet on the second end of the shock absorber defines a second frame attachment portion to be coupled to the frame of the bicycle. The shock end mount includes an elastomeric member to enable relative movement between the shock absorber and the first frame attachment portion. The elastomeric member is disposed outside of a region between the first frame attachment portion and the second frame attachment portion.