Folding Bicycle Hinge with Automatic Blocking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Folding bicycle hinges require high manual force to block tubular portions in the unfolded position, are prone to dirt accumulation, and risk involuntary folding during use, posing safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design featuring a blocking element with a return device that automatically transitions from an open to a closed position, eliminating the need for manual force and preventing accidental folding, while keeping the tubular portions aligned and secure in the unfolded position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lever is used to block tubular portions in the unfolded position, then the hinge can retain the bicycle in the unfolded position, but high manual force is required to press the lever against the tubular assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism automatically blocks itself in the unfolded position through the interaction between the blocking element and the cam surface. When the tubular portions are in the unfolded position, the blocking element is forced against the cam surface by the geometry of the mechanism itself, eliminating the need for manual force to maintain the blocked state.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element provides a counteracting force that assists the blocking element in pressing against the cam surface. This spring force reduces the manual effort required by the user to initiate and maintain the blocking action, effectively compensating for the high force requirement.
2Reliability
If the lever is disposed near the wheels, then the hinge can function properly, but the lever can be covered with mud and dirty the user's hands
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is extracted from its traditional position near the wheel and repositioned to a location on the hinge mechanism that is远离 from the wheel and mud-spray zones. This spatial extraction eliminates the harmful effect of mud contamination while preserving the blocking function through the redesigned cam-and-block mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the lever is not pressed correctly, then the hinge can be operated easily, but the hinge risks folding during use which can cause heavy falls
Solution Approach 1:
The cam surface provides immediate mechanical feedback to the user when the blocking element is properly engaged. The geometry of the cam creates a distinct tactile and visual indication when the blocking element is correctly positioned against the cam surface, providing feedback that confirms proper engagement without requiring complex controls or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element pre-loads the blocking element against the cam surface, creating a cushioning force that ensures continuous engagement. This pre-loading mechanism compensates for any minor positioning errors by the user, maintaining reliable blocking even if the initial positioning is not perfectly precise, thereby preventing accidental folding during use.
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
Facilitates rapid deployment and use of the bicycle by automatically blocking the tubular portions, enhancing safety by preventing involuntary folding and reducing manual effort, and keeping the user's hands clean.
Implementation Method 1
a return device configured to bring the blocking element from its open position into its closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge for a folding bicycle comprising a first tubular portion, a second tubular portion, the first and second tubular portions being able to assume an unfolded position and a folded position; a blocking element which can assume at least one closed position in which it retains the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion in the unfolded position, and an open position in which it allows the movement into the folded position of the first and second tubular portions; a connection part and a return device configured to bring the blocking element from its open position to its closed position.