Segmented Bicycle Splashguard with Elastic Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle splashguards are not easily detachable, adjustable, or environmentally friendly, lacking flexibility and ease of maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The development of a frontal, flexibly-attached and rapidly-detachable splashguard assembly using recycled materials like PET from plastic bottles and natural elements like sticks, with elastic fasteners made from inner tube strips, allowing for quick installation and removal, and adjustable to fit various bicycle sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional splashguards are used, then splash protection is provided, but they are not easily detachable and require complex installation
Solution Approach 1:
The splashguard is divided into multiple detachable segments that can be independently installed and removed. Each segment connects through simple coupling mechanisms allowing rapid assembly and disassembly without complex tools or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system transitions from static permanent mounting to dynamic removable mounting. The splashguard can be quickly attached and detached based on riding conditions, enabling adaptability while maintaining simplicity through elastic fastening mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed splashguards are used, then splash protection is maintained, but they are not adjustable to different bicycle sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The splashguard system consists of multiple adjustable segments that can be configured to fit different bicycle frame sizes. The segmented design allows users to adjust the overall length and positioning to accommodate various bicycle types without complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic fastening system provides universal adaptability across different bicycle sizes and types. The same simple elastic mechanism can accommodate various frame geometries and dimensions, making the splashguard suitable for multiple bicycle configurations without requiring size-specific designs.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional splashguards are used, then splash protection is provided, but they are not environmentally friendly
Solution Approach 1:
The splashguard is designed to be easily removed and disposed of or recycled after use. The simple elastic attachment allows for quick removal of the entire assembly for recycling or composting, reducing environmental impact while maintaining functional reliability during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The splashguard employs inexpensive, easily replaceable elastic fasteners and simple construction that prioritizes environmental friendliness over permanent durability. The design accepts that the splashguard may be replaced periodically for environmental reasons while maintaining adequate functional reliability for its intended use period.
4Ease of repair
If traditional splashguards are used, then splash protection is provided, but they are difficult to clean and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The splashguard is segmented into removable sections that can be easily detached for cleaning. The simple elastic attachment mechanism allows quick removal of individual segments for thorough cleaning and maintenance, eliminating the need to disassemble complex structures while maintaining effective splash protection.
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 solution provides a flexible, adjustable, and environmentally friendly splashguard system that is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring effective splash protection while being adaptable to different bicycle frames and conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Fasteners may also be used to couple the splashguard members and/or splashguard retention members with the bicycle. These fasteners may, in some cases, be easily fashioned by, for example, cutting strips of old used inner tube
Data Source
AI summary
Frontal splashguard member assemblies and related methods. In some embodiments, one or more splashguard members may be coupled to a frontal portion of a bicycle frame, such as a down tube, by way of one or more splashguard retention members and a plurality of fasteners, which fasteners may extend through openings formed in the one or more splashguard members and around the splashguard retention member.