Foldable Steering Assembly for Compact Electric Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an improved compact electric transport device that can efficiently transition between a stowed configuration for easy portability and a riding configuration, addressing the limitations of existing electric scooters and similar devices in terms of convenience and usability.
Innovation Solution
A foldable steering assembly and method for transitioning an electric transport device from a stowed configuration to a riding configuration, featuring a steering column that extends vertically, a pivoting handlebar, and a seat post that unfolds to create a usable platform, allowing for easy conversion between configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the electric transport device is designed with a compact size for easy portability, then the device can be easily carried and stored, but the device cannot accommodate a usable steering assembly and seat for riding
Solution Approach 1:
The steering assembly and seat are designed with movable components that can transition between a retracted position (for compact storage) and an extended position (for riding). The steering column can rotate and extend, while the seat can pivot and deploy, allowing the device to adapt its configuration based on whether it is being carried or ridden.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering assembly is divided into separate components (steering column, handlebar, seat) that can be independently folded or retracted. This segmentation allows each component to be compacted individually, enabling the entire assembly to fit within a small volume while still providing full riding functionality when deployed.
2Ease of operation
If the steering assembly is extended to a full riding position, then the device becomes usable for riding, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handlebar is designed to nest within the steering column when not in use, and the seat can be folded against the steering assembly. This nesting arrangement allows the components to be compacted into a small space while maintaining their full functionality when extended, reducing the need for additional complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering column and seat are integrated into a single assembly that moves and rotates together as one unit. This merging of functions into a single mechanical system reduces the number of separate mechanisms needed, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the handlebar is positioned horizontally for steering control, then the device is ready for riding, but the handlebar occupies more space when stored
Solution Approach 1:
The handlebar is designed with rotational capability, allowing it to pivot between a horizontal position (for steering control during riding) and a vertical position (for compact storage). This dynamic repositioning enables the handlebar to occupy minimal space when not in use while providing full steering functionality when needed.
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
Enables a convenient and compact form factor for easy carrying and quick conversion to a riding position, enhancing usability for 'last-mile' or 'first-mile' trips, improving user experience with efficient space utilization and ease of operation.
Implementation Method 1
a hinge connecting the steering column to the steering shaft
Implementation Method 2
The handlebar is configured to pivot around a central hub to transition the handlebar from the vertical orientation within the receiving slot to a horizontal orientation in an extended position
Data Source
AI summary
A compact electric transport device that is convertible between a stowed configuration and a riding configuration is described. In one embodiment, a foldable steering assembly for an electric transport device includes a steering column disposed within an opening along a top surface of the electric transport device. The steering column has a horizontal orientation that extends along a length of the electric transport device within the opening in a folded position. The foldable steering assembly also includes a steering shaft connected to an axle of a wheel of the electric transport device. The foldable steering assembly further includes a hinge connecting the steering column to the steering shaft. The steering column is configured to transition to a vertical orientation that is perpendicular to the opening along the top surface of the electric transport device in an extended position.