Inline Skate Frame Suspension With Switchable Rocker Arm Modes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inline skate frames have fixed suspension configurations that cannot be easily adjusted or customized by users, limiting the ability to tailor the skating experience to individual preferences or terrain conditions.
Innovation Solution
An inline skate frame with a configurable suspension system that allows users to select between no suspension, independent arm suspension, and opposing arm suspension configurations through the use of biasing members and stop pins, enabling customization of stiffness and ride characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed suspension configuration is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different terrains and skating styles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system transitions from a fixed static configuration to a dynamic adjustable system. Users can modify the suspension characteristics by repositioning biasing members and adjusting stop pin locations, allowing the system to adapt to different terrains and skating styles while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables parameter changes in the suspension system by allowing users to adjust the position of biasing members and stop pins. This modifies the suspension characteristics (stiffness, range of motion) without requiring completely different structural components, thus improving adaptability while controlling complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple suspension configurations are provided, then the adaptability and customization options increase, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing members and stop pins serve multiple functions: they provide suspension force, define the range of motion, and enable configuration changes. This multi-functionality allows the system to offer multiple suspension types (independent arm suspension, opposing arm suspension, no suspension) without requiring separate dedicated components for each function, thus controlling overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic reconfiguration through adjustable stop pins and repositionable biasing members. This allows a single set of components to provide multiple suspension configurations rather than requiring separate fixed components for each suspension type, improving versatility while managing complexity through a unified adjustable design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If stop pins are selectively inserted to create different suspension characteristics, then the customization capability improves, but the ease of operation and adjustment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stop pins are pre-positioned in the frame body at predetermined locations that correspond to different suspension characteristics. Users simply need to insert or remove stop pins at these pre-prepared positions rather than performing complex adjustments, making the customization process straightforward and quick while maintaining multiple suspension options.
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
Provides users with the ability to optimize their skating experience by adapting the suspension to different terrains, skating styles, and personal preferences, enhancing stability, maneuverability, and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
The frame includes biasing members that can be positioned between opposing rocker arms
Data Source
AI summary
An inline skate frame may comprise a frame body. A plurality of rocker arms may be rotatably attached to the frame body. The rocker arms may be configured to support wheels. A plurality of biasing members may be positionable between opposing rocker arms. A plurality of stop pins may be selectively insertable through the frame body and biasing members. The frame may be configurable between multiple configurations. In a first suspension configuration, the stop pins may be inserted to independently bias each rocker arm against the frame body. In a second suspension configuration, the stop pins may be removed to bias opposing rocker arms against each other. In a no-suspension configuration, the biasing members may be replaced with non-elastomeric plugs. The rocker arms may be rotatably attached to the frame body by pivot axles. The biasing members may comprise elastomeric springs. The elastomeric springs may have a hole or hollow tube running lengthwise through their center. The frame body and rocker arms may be configured to use reversible hardware. The frame may comprise four rocker arms. The four rocker arms may comprise two pairs of identical rocker arms for supporting wheels of different diameters. Upward and downward rotation of the rocker arms may be limited by stops on the rocker arms and within the frame body. The frame may be configurable with different suspension configurations for different pairs of rocker arms within the same frame.