Kick Scooter Steering Control with Torsion Spring Restoring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering control mechanisms for kick scooters do not efficiently manage turning angles and wear on components, leading to suboptimal performance and reduced lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A steering control device with a seat, pivots, linking assemblies, a limit pin, and a restoring mechanism using a torsion spring, which allows for synchronized turning of front wheels while minimizing wear on the spring by distributing elastic force through positioning members, and optimizing space and structural simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional steering control mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the turning angle control is imprecise and component wear is high
Solution Approach 1:
The steering control device is divided into multiple functional modules: seat assembly with pivots, linking assemblies connecting wheels to seat, limit pin mechanism for angle restriction, and restoring mechanism with torsion spring. Each module performs a specific function, allowing precise turning angle control through coordinated operation while keeping individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The limit pin acts as an intermediary element that physically restricts the rotation range of the seat, thereby controlling the turning angle of front wheels. The torsion spring serves as a mediator that provides restoring force to return the steering to neutral position, distributing elastic force through positioning members to reduce wear on single components.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the torsion spring is directly engaged without positioning members, then the structure is simpler, but the wear on the spring increases and lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Positioning members are introduced as intermediary elements between the torsion spring and the seat assembly. These members distribute the elastic force generated by the torsion spring across multiple contact points, preventing concentrated wear on the spring itself while maintaining the restoring function. The positioning members transfer force through their anchors engaged in the spring ends.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning members with threaded sections and nuts allow for adjustable positioning and can be removed or replaced independently if worn, while the torsion spring itself is protected from direct wear and can be retained for longer service life. This modular approach enables selective maintenance.
3Measurement precision
If more components are added to improve steering control, then the control precision improves, but the device occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into integrated assemblies: the seat serves as both a structural support and a pivot point for steering; the linking assemblies simultaneously connect wheels to seat and provide pivot points for rotation; the limit pin combines angle restriction with structural support. This merging reduces the number of separate components and minimizes overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat assembly performs multiple functions: it supports the rider, serves as a pivot for steering control, houses the limit pin mechanism, and provides mounting points for linking assemblies. The pivots on the seat simultaneously enable wheel turning and support the restoring mechanism, achieving precise control without proportionally increasing device volume.
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 solution enables precise control of turning angles, reduces wear on the spring, and prolongs its lifespan, while maintaining a compact design and effective structural configuration for steering control.
Implementation Method 1
a restoring mechanism including a biasing member engaged with the rim
Implementation Method 2
a restoring mechanism including a biasing member engaged with the rim, a threaded fastener secured to the threaded hole to securely retain the biasing member
Data Source
AI summary
A kick scooter has a steering control device including a seat including an oval hole and two side armrests each having a through hole; a connecting member including an intermediate hollow projection and two wings; two linking assemblies each including a linking bar having one end connected to either front wheel; a limit pin movably disposed in the oval hole and secured to the connecting member; and a restoring mechanism including a biasing member fastened by the limit pin, and two positioning members each moveably disposed through the through hole and having an anchor at one end in either end of the biasing member, a threaded section at the other end, an intermediate flange, and two nuts each secured to the threaded section. The seat and the linking assembly are pivotably fastened together. The seat, the linking assembly, and the connecting member are pivotably fastened together.