Linear Reciprocating Pedal Drive With One-Way Clutch Torque Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rotary pedaling prime movers in bicycles are inefficient as they only utilize effective torque within a limited range, leading to suboptimal power output and requiring additional energy for each pedal cycle, especially in recumbent bicycles.
Innovation Solution
A reciprocating linear prime mover design that converts the rotary motion of legs into linear flexion and extension, allowing both legs to generate twice the instantaneous power of the maximum moment point of circular rotation by using a system of rollers, one-way clutches, and forcing apparatuses to drive the motion in a consistent direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If rotary pedaling mechanism is used, then the basic structure is simple and familiar, but the effective torque is only generated within a limited range of 90 degrees, reducing power output efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional rotary pedaling motion into a linear reciprocating motion. The driving element moves linearly back and forth between two rollers, converting the circular rotation into a straight-line reciprocating motion that can continuously generate driving force in one direction, thereby resolving the limited torque generation range of rotary mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional rotary motion to three-dimensional linear reciprocating motion by introducing a guide structure that constrains the driving element to move along a linear path between two rollers positioned at different locations, enabling continuous unidirectional force application
2Force
If stand-up pedaling is used to increase downward pressure, then excess body weight can be exerted on pedals, but it requires the rider to lean forward and use arm strength, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic mechanism where the driving element can reciprocate linearly between two rollers, allowing the leg to continuously apply force throughout the entire stroke range. The one-way clutch mechanism enables the leg to push during the power stroke while automatically returning during the recovery stroke, maintaining constant force application without requiring the rider to shift body position or engage arm strength
3Ease of operation
If recumbent bicycle design is used, then comfort is improved, but additional invalid power consumption is required for each cycle to lift the leg from bottom dead center to top dead center
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by having the driving element reciprocate continuously between two rollers without interruption. The linear reciprocating motion allows the leg to apply force throughout the entire stroke in both directions, eliminating the invalid lifting motion required in conventional recumbent bicycles where the leg must be lifted from bottom dead center to top dead center, thereby converting what was previously wasted energy into useful work
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses the leg's own motion to drive the reciprocating action. As the leg pushes forward, it drives the driving element to move linearly between the rollers, and the one-way clutch mechanism automatically returns the driving element to its starting position, allowing the leg to immediately begin the next power stroke without requiring external energy input for resetting the mechanism
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 reciprocating linear prime mover enhances power output by enabling both legs to contribute effectively throughout the entire stroke, doubling the power equivalent to the maximum moment point of circular rotation, thus improving the efficiency and effectiveness of pedaling.
Implementation Method 1
the first part comprises at least a first one-way clutch nearby the inner side of the first linear part and contacting therewith, and at least a second one-way clutch nearby the inner side of the second linear part and contacting therewith
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a reciprocating linear prime mover, comprising a first roller, disposed on a first driving axis along with a second axis; a second roller, disposed on a second driving axis along with the second axis; a closed first linear driving element winded on and between the first roller and the second roller, comprising a first linear part and a second linear part between the first roller and the second roller, wherein the second linear part is above the first linear part along a (+) third axis; a first part disposed between the first roller and the second roller, wherein the first part is reciprocatingly moved along with the first axis, and the first part comprises a first one-way clutch nearby the inner side of the first linear part and contacting therewith, and a second one-way clutch nearby the inner side of the second linear part and contacting therewith.