Compact Bicycle Derailleur Linkage Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle derailleurs are not compact enough, leading to increased size and complexity, which can affect their efficiency and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle derailleur design featuring a base member, a movable member, and link members with specific pivot axes arrangements, allowing the movable member to move between retracted and extended positions while maintaining a compact structure through overlapping link members and a stable linkage assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional derailleur design is used, then gear shifting function is provided, but the size is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by positioning the first link member and second link member such that they overlap with each other in the retracted position. Specifically, the first connecting portion of the first link member is disposed within the space defined by the second link member and base member, creating a compact nested arrangement that reduces overall derailleur volume while maintaining operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes dimensional arrangement by configuring the pivot axes in specific spatial relationships. The first and second pivot axes are positioned at different locations and orientations, allowing the link members to fold into a compact configuration in one dimension while maintaining the necessary movement range in another dimension for effective gear shifting.
2Volume of moving object
If link members are arranged to overlap, then compact form is achieved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by designing the overlapping link member arrangement to simultaneously provide compactness and structural stability. The first and second link members, while overlapping in space, are configured with specific pivot axes and connecting portions that maintain clear functional separation - the first link member handles primary movement while the second link member provides support and positioning, allowing each component to serve multiple purposes in the compact configuration.
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 results in a more compact and stable bicycle derailleur with improved chain guiding capabilities, allowing for efficient gear shifting while reducing the overall size and weight of the derailleur.
Implementation Method 1
The first link member includes a first connecting portion pivotally coupled to the movable member about a first pivot axis. The first link member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a second pivot axis. The second link member is pivotally coupled to the movable member about a third pivot axis. The second link member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a fourth pivot axis.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle derailleur has a base member, a movable member, a first link member and a second link member. The movable member is movable with respect to the base member between a retracted position and an extended position. The first link member includes a first connecting portion pivotally coupled to the movable member about a first pivot axis. The first link member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a second pivot axis. The second link member is pivotally coupled to the movable member about a third pivot axis. The second link member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a fourth pivot axis. The first connecting portion at least partially overlaps with the second link member as viewed in a direction parallel to the first pivot axis in a state in which the movable member is disposed at one of the retracted and extended positions.