Convertible Bicycle Wheel Mount for Multiple Axle Types
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bicycle frames face challenges in accommodating different wheel axle types, such as quick-release, thru-axle, and internal gear hub axles, due to varying sizes and configurations, which complicates the adaptation of rear wheel mounts for secure and versatile wheel installations.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a universal keyhole configuration in the rear wheel supports that allows for the use of spacers and torque arms to accommodate different axle types, enabling the secure mounting of both thru-axle and internal gear hub wheels by adjusting the wheel supports to fit various axle diameters and widths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the rear wheel mount is designed for a specific axle type (e.g., quick-release or thru-axle), then the mounting is secure and simple for that type, but the adaptability to other axle types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel mount dropout is designed with a universal keyhole-shaped opening that can accommodate multiple axle types (quick-release, thru-axle, and internal gear hub axles) through a single structure. The keyhole geometry with its varying width sections allows different axle configurations to be secured without requiring separate dropout designs for each axle type.
Solution Approach 2:
The dropout structure is segmented into distinct functional zones within the keyhole opening: a first section for securing the axle to the frame, and a second section for accommodating the axle's flat surfaces. This segmentation allows the single dropout to handle multiple axle types by providing appropriately shaped regions for different axle configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the wheel mount uses a narrow slot for IGH axles with flats, then the axle is securely held, but the compatibility with other axle types like thru-axles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The keyhole-shaped opening serves multiple functions: the wider first section accommodates thru-axles and provides secure mounting, while the narrower second section with reduced width accommodates IGH axles with flats. This multi-functional design allows a single dropout structure to reliably secure different axle types appropriate to each section's geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the keyhole opening have different local geometries optimized for specific axle types. The first section has a width suitable for thru-axles, while the second section has a narrower width with features suitable for holding IGH axle flats. Each local region is optimized for its specific function while contributing to overall versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle comprising a frame supported on front and rear wheels. A left wheel support includes a left hole and a left slot extending through the left wheel support to cooperatively form a left keyhole through the left wheel support. A right wheel support includes a right hole and a right slot extending through the right wheel support to cooperatively form a right keyhole through the right wheel support. A left spacer may be removably positioned in the left keyhole and include a left axle hole with a drive flat and a left torque arm positioned in the left slot. A right spacer may be removably positioned in the left keyhole and include a right axle hole with a drive flat and a right torque arm positioned in the right slot. A method is also disclosed for converting a bicycle having a first wheel type to a bicycle having a second wheel type.