Gas-Spring Seatpost Structure for Height Adjustment and Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle seat height adjustment mechanisms lack shock absorbing functionality, leading to insufficient reliability and safety, particularly in applications requiring both height adjustment and shock absorption.
Innovation Solution
A shock absorbing and height adjusting structure incorporating an inner tube with upper and lower piston assemblies, where the pistons are movably inserted and connected to allow gas compression, enabling both height adjustment and shock absorption by controlling passages and sealing covers to manage gas and oil flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a C-shaped ring is used to secure the seat tube and seat post, then the structure is simple, but the reliability is insufficient as the components are easily releasable
Solution Approach 1:
The securing mechanism is divided into multiple functional components: a securing assembly with a C-shaped ring for initial engagement, and a separate locking assembly with a locking block and locking groove for final securement. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both simplicity in individual components and high reliability through the combined multi-stage securing process.
2Ease of operation
If an oil-gas adjusting mechanism with an inner tube is used for height adjustment, then the height adjustment function is achieved, but the shock absorbing function is not considered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two previously separate functions into a single integrated mechanism: the height adjustment function (achieved through the inner tube and piston movement) and the shock absorption function (achieved through the same piston system compressing gas). The piston assemblies serve dual purposes: controlling height by moving along the inner tube and absorbing shocks by compressing the gas within the sealed environment.
3Device complexity
If a conventional securing way with C-shaped ring is used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability is not enough as seat tube and seat post are easily releasable
Solution Approach 1:
The securing assembly with the C-shaped ring performs a preliminary securing action by initially holding the seat post in position. This preliminary action is then reinforced by the locking assembly, which engages the locking block with the locking groove to prevent accidental release. The preliminary securing provides initial stability while the final locking mechanism ensures reliable long-term connection.
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 structure effectively absorbs shocks and adjusts height by compressing gas, providing enhanced reliability and safety in various applications, including bicycles and office chairs, through the use of movable pistons and controlled gas and oil flow within the inner tube.
Implementation Method 1
When the upper piston is forced, the upper piston is moved relative to the upper end toward the lower end to compress the gas
Data Source
AI summary
A shock absorbing and height adjusting structure includes an inner tube, a lower piston assembly and an upper piston assembly. The inner tube includes an upper end, a lower end opposite to the upper end, and an inner space for accommodating a gas. The lower piston assembly includes a lower piston movably inserted into the inner tube, and a lower passage disposed at the lower piston. The upper piston assembly includes an upper piston movably inserted into the inner tube. When the lower passage is opened, the lower piston is moved relative to the lower end, and when the upper piston is forced, the upper piston has movement relative to the upper end toward the lower end to compress the gas.