Cleat Adapter Assembly with Dynamic Positioning Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cleat adapter systems for cycling shoes require loosening bolts to adjust the cleat position, which is inconvenient and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A cleat adapter assembly with a first connecting portion attached to the cleat, a second connecting portion attached to the shoe sole, and an adjuster that allows for adjustable positioning without loosening bolts, operated by an actuator and controller, enabling wireless communication and discrete step adjustments in multiple directions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the cleat position is adjusted by loosening bolts, then the cleat position can be changed, but the adjustment process becomes time-consuming and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecleat position adjustabilityVSAvoidadjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the cleat adapter assembly can be repositioned along the sole without requiring bolt loosening. The adjuster mechanism allows the cleat to be moved to different positions (e.g., forward, backward, lateral adjustments) while maintaining a locked state, enabling quick position changes without time-consuming manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary adjuster mechanism between the cleat and the sole that facilitates position changes. This adjuster acts as a mediator that allows the cleat adapter assembly to be repositioned along guide rails or tracks without requiring the removal or loosening of fastening bolts, thus solving the time-consuming adjustment problem.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the cleat is firmly fastened to the sole, then the cleat position is stable, but the adjustment process requires loosening and retightening bolts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecleat position stabilityVSAvoidadjustment convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides dynamic positioning capability where the cleat can be easily repositioned during setup or adjustment phases, then locked into place. The adjuster mechanism allows for smooth movement along the sole surface, and once the desired position is reached, the mechanism locks to provide stable positioning without requiring repeated bolt loosening and tightening.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional bolt-loosening-and-tightening mechanical system with a more sophisticated adjuster mechanism that combines sliding or rolling motion with locking features. This substitution eliminates the need for threaded fasteners during adjustment, making the process more convenient while maintaining firm fixation at the selected position.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11793277B2Cleat adapter assembly for cycling shoe

Publication Date: 2023.10.24 SHIMANO INC

AI summary

A cleat adapter assembly is provided for a cycling shoe. The cleat adapter assembly basically includes a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion and an adjuster. The first connecting portion is configured to be connected to a cleat. The second connecting portion is adjustably connected to the first connecting portion. The adjuster is configured to adjust a relative position between the first connecting portion and the second connection portion.