Bicycle Wheel Quick Release Handle Clocking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle wheel quick release assemblies often require complex alignment and specialized tools for clocking the handle, limiting adjustability and increasing costs due to impractical threading and degradation issues.
Innovation Solution
A quick release assembly with a handle that can be oriented in various clocking positions relative to the axle, featuring a pivot and stop mechanism allowing the handle to be secured at different radial positions without altering the operating range, enabling efficient and repeatable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional clocking mechanisms with nuts and supplemental structures are used, then the handle can be oriented in desired positions, but additional small parts are introduced and specialized tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The clocking mechanism is segmented into discrete detent positions on the axle and corresponding engagement positions on the handle. The handle can be independently positioned at multiple discrete radial positions relative to the axle, with each position maintained by a simple detent engagement rather than complex threading mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex nut and supplemental structure components are extracted and replaced with a simplified detent-based positioning system. The essential function of handle orientation is extracted from the complex clocking mechanism, leaving only the necessary detent positions and engagement features.
2Adaptability or versatility
If threaded interactions are used for clocking, then the handle can be secured at specific positions, but the system is susceptible to degradation and machining costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded interactions are replaced with simple detent-based positioning features that are less susceptible to wear and degradation. The detent positions are formed as simple geometric features on the axle and handle rather than precision threaded interfaces, reducing machining complexity and improving reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is secured at multiple radial positions, then clocking flexibility is improved, but the alignment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detent positions are pre-formed on the axle at specific radial positions, and the handle is designed with corresponding engagement features. This preliminary preparation of positioning features eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures during assembly, as the handle simply needs to be positioned at one of the pre-defined detent positions.
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 allows for quick and efficient orientation of the handle to face desired directions, simplifying wheel removal and installation while maintaining secure closure pressure, reducing the need for complex alignment and tooling, and enhancing adjustability.
Implementation Method 1
A handle is engaged with the pivot pin and rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the pivot pin to alter an axial distance between an inboard face of the thrust washer and an inboard face of the stop
Implementation Method 2
a cam or biasing assembly that tensions the axle
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle wheel quick release assembly that includes an axle having a handle engaged with one end thereof. The handle is operable to alter a working length of the axle and securable to the axle at a variety of radial positions to manipulate the radial direction or clocking of the orientation of the handle relative to a longitudinal axis of the axle.