Deployable Interference Mechanism for Bicycle Wheel Anchor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle load carriers lack a secure and adjustable mechanism for accommodating various bicycle sizes, leading to instability during transport.
Innovation Solution
A variably positionable bicycle wheel anchor with a deployable interference mechanism that induces resistance to sliding along the support rail when a bicycle is installed, allowing for adjustable positioning before mounting and enhanced stability during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed securement mechanism is used, then stability during transport is improved, but adaptability to various bicycle sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel anchor incorporates a deployable interference mechanism that transitions between retracted and deployed states. When retracted, the mechanism allows the wheel anchor to be positioned at different locations along the support rail to accommodate various bicycle sizes. When deployed, the mechanism engages with the support rail to provide securement and stability during transport. This dynamic transformation enables the same mechanism to serve both adaptability and stability functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a deployable interference mechanism is added, then adaptability to various bicycle sizes is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interference mechanism is integrated directly into the wheel anchor body, merging the securement function with the positioning function. The mechanism combines a deployable element that engages with the support rail, allowing the wheel anchor to be both adjustable and secure without requiring separate independent systems. This integration reduces overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If friction resistance is increased for securement, then stability during transport is improved, but ease of adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interference mechanism dynamically adjusts the friction resistance based on its state. When retracted, the mechanism presents a low-friction profile that allows the wheel anchor to slide easily along the support rail for positioning. When deployed, the mechanism engages with the support rail surface, increasing friction resistance to prevent movement during transport. This dynamic friction adjustment resolves the contradiction between ease of adjustment and stability.
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 provides secure and stable mounting of bicycles of different sizes by varying the resistance to sliding, ensuring the bicycle remains fixed in place during transport while allowing for easy adjustment before installation.
Implementation Method 1
a deployable interference mechanism that induces resistance to sliding along the support rail when a bicycle is installed
Data Source
AI summary
A variably positionable bicycle wheel anchor for fixing a bicycle wheel at a desired location along an elongate support rail. The bicycle wheel anchor includes a body configured to be slidingly coupled to an elongate support rail for variable, fixed positioning of the body along a length of the elongate support rail. The underside of the body has a support rail engagement surface and the upper side of the body has a bicycle wheel receiver. The wheel anchor has a deployable interference mechanism coupled to the body and having a deployed configuration in which at least a portion of the interference mechanism protrudes beyond the underside of the body for releasable engagement with the elongate support rail.