Leaning Vehicle Frame Stopper Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system to limit the leaning of a frame in unassisted leaning vehicles with three ground engaging members relative to a shock tower, as unassisted leaning vehicles lack the mechanical and electronic complexity of assisted leaning systems but require a method to control the leaning process.
Innovation Solution
The system includes stoppers and shock absorbers connected to the frame and shock tower, which limit the pivoting of the frame during turns by compressing shock absorbers when specific angles are reached, and a locking mechanism using a pin and ratchet surfaces to control the leaning position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If unassisted leaning is used in a vehicle with three ground engaging members, then the mechanical and electronic complexity is reduced, but the ability to control and limit the leaning angle is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
A stop mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the frame and the ground to physically limit the leaning angle. The stop consists of a stop arm connected to the frame and a stop surface that prevents the frame from leaning beyond a predetermined angle, providing passive mechanical control without requiring complex electronic systems
Solution Approach 2:
The stop mechanism automatically engages and disengages based on the leaning angle of the frame without requiring external control systems. When the frame leans beyond the predetermined angle, the stop arm contacts the stop surface, creating a self-regulating system that maintains safety without electronic intervention
2Adaptability or versatility
If the frame is allowed to lean freely during turns, then the driving experience similar to motorcycles is improved, but the stability and control of the vehicle is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The stop mechanism is pre-positioned to counteract excessive leaning before it can compromise vehicle stability. By establishing a predetermined leaning angle limit, the system prevents the frame from tilting beyond safe operating parameters, maintaining stability while allowing controlled leaning motion
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
This solution allows for controlled leaning in unassisted leaning vehicles, reducing mechanical and electronic complexity while enabling precise control over the leaning angle, enhancing the driving experience by mimicking the leaning mechanics of motorcycles.
Implementation Method 1
A first stopper is connected to one of the frame and the shock tower. The first stopper is adapted to abut another one of the frame and the shock tower when the frame pivots left relative to the shock tower by a first angle thereby limiting pivoting of the frame relative to the shock tower toward the left
Implementation Method 2
The rack has a left ratchet surface and a right ratchet surface. The pin is further selectively movable to abut the left and right ratchet surfaces when the frame is pivoted left and right respectively relative to the shock tower
Data Source
AI summary
A leaning vehicle has a shock tower, a frame pivotable relative to the shock tower, front left and right suspension assemblies, front left and right ground engaging members, a rear suspension assembly, and a rear ground engaging member. A pair of first stoppers is connected to one of the frame and the shock tower to limit pivoting of the frame relative to the shock tower. Each front suspension assembly has: a leg, upper and lower suspension arms, and a shock absorber having an upper end connected to the shock tower and a lower end connected to the lower suspension arm. A pair of second stoppers is connected to one of the frame and the lower suspension arms to limit leaning of the vehicle relative to vertical when the frame has pivoted relative to the shock tower and the shock absorber of one of the suspension assemblies is compressed.