Clipless Pedal Torque Distribution via Segmented Base
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clipless pedals with Y-shaped flanges are prone to breakage due to high pressure and torque during cleat disengagement, requiring replacement of the entire pedal when one distal end of the flange is damaged.
Innovation Solution
A clipless pedal design featuring a tubular part with a tongue and board, where the clip's base is secured through bolts to the pedal body, distributing torque and pressure evenly and preventing flange breakage, with a torsion spring and stop mechanism for secure engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a Y-shaped flange is used for engaging the cleat, then the pedal can securely hold the shoe during cycling, but the cantilevered distal ends of the flange are prone to breakage under high pressure and torque during disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The base is divided into multiple sections with through holes that allow second bolts to pass through, distributing the load across multiple attachment points rather than concentrating stress at single cantilevered ends. This segmentation transforms the monolithic Y-shaped flange into a distributed fastening system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection method transitions from a planar Y-shaped flange structure to a three-dimensional bolted assembly where the base is secured at multiple points (first end to tongue, second end through board) in different spatial dimensions, eliminating the cantilever effect.
2Strength
If the base is securely fixed to the pedal body to bear high torque, then the pedal can withstand cycling forces, but the entire pedal must be replaced when the flange breaks
Solution Approach 1:
The pedal assembly is segmented into replaceable components: the base with engaging member can be independently replaced from the pedal body. The through holes in the base allow bolts to be accessed and manipulated, enabling separate replacement of the base assembly without discarding the entire pedal.
Solution Approach 2:
When the base or engaging member wears or breaks, only that specific component needs to be discarded and replaced, while the pedal body, tongue, and board are recovered and reused. This selective replacement is enabled by the bolted connection through the through holes.
3Force
If the distal ends of the Y-shaped flange contact the cleat with significant pressure for secure engagement, then the shoe is firmly held, but frequent operations cause the distal ends to break
Solution Approach 1:
The force transmission path is changed from the cantilevered distal ends of a planar Y-shaped flange to a three-dimensional bolted connection system. The first and second bolts create force distribution in multiple directions, eliminating the stress concentration at distal ends and extending the pedal's operational life.
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 design enhances the pedal's durability by evenly distributing torque and pressure, preventing flange breakage and allowing for easy maintenance and replacement, extending the pedal's lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a torsion spring mounted to the pin and biased between the stop and the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A clipless pedal includes a pedal body having a tubular part mounted to an axle. The tubular part divides the pedal body into a first portion and a second portion. A tongue extends from the inside of the first portion. A board is formed between the tubular part and the inside of the second portion of the pedal body. A clip is connected to the pedal body and includes a base and an engaging which is connected to the base. The first end of the baes is fixed to the tongue by two first bolts from the top of the base. The second end of the base is fixed to the board by two second bolds which extend through the board and are connected to the underside of the second end of the base. The base of the clip can bear high torque applied to it.