Flexible-Spoke Pushchair Wheel for Integrated Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pushchairs and small vehicles lack a simple and effective suspension system that provides a smooth ride over uneven surfaces without complex mechanisms, which are often costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A wheel design featuring flexible spokes with varying thickness or cross-sectional area, allowing for a two-stage compression mechanism to absorb different levels of force, providing a robust and comfortable suspension system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a suspension system is added to a pushchair, then ride comfort is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension function is merged with the wheel structure itself. The flexible spokes are integrated directly into the wheel, eliminating the need for separate suspension components. This combines the wheel and suspension into a single unified structure, providing ride comfort without adding device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spokes are designed with flexible material properties rather than rigid structures. This flexibility allows the spokes to deform and absorb shocks from uneven surfaces, providing suspension functionality through the inherent flexibility of the wheel components rather than through complex mechanical suspension systems.
2Ease of operation
If a spring-based suspension system is used, then ride comfort is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension effect is achieved by changing the physical parameters of the spoke material and geometry rather than using separate spring components. By adjusting the flexibility, thickness, and material properties of the spokes, the suspension characteristics are modified without requiring expensive spring-based mechanisms, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible spoke design uses simpler, more cost-effective materials and construction methods compared to traditional spring suspension systems. The spokes can be manufactured using conventional molding or fabrication processes, making the overall wheel assembly more economical to produce while still providing effective suspension.
3Reliability
If spokes with varying thickness are used, then suspension performance is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spokes feature varying thickness along their length, with different sections having different cross-sectional areas to optimize suspension performance. The thicker sections provide structural strength while thinner sections increase flexibility for shock absorption. This local variation in geometry is designed to achieve specific suspension characteristics while remaining compatible with conventional manufacturing processes.
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 wheel design ensures a smooth ride by absorbing common and uncommon obstacles, enhancing passenger comfort without complex frame mechanisms, and maintaining stability across varying terrains.
Implementation Method 1
a first degree of flexibility such that upon application of a first level of force a first knee is defined
Implementation Method 2
the spokes have a thickness or cross-sectional area that decreases from a radially inner position to a radial outer position
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a wheel for a pushchair, the wheel comprising a an inner hub for connection to an axle, an outer rim for engaging the ground in use a plurality of spokes connected between the inner hub and the outer rim, wherein the spokes are flexible.