Motorcycle Suspension Fork Locking Assembly for Stable Starting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motorcycles experience rearward rotation during starting, which can be dangerous and eject the rider, due to the thrust generated by the suspension fork's compression and extension, and existing solutions like locking the suspension fork in a compressed position are not practical for normal operation.
Innovation Solution
A locking assembly for a motorcycle suspension fork that includes a pin configured to rotate from an unlocked to a locked position, engaging a locking plate to secure the fork in a compressed state during starting, and releasing to allow normal operation by retracting when additional force is applied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the suspension fork is locked in a compressed position during starting, then motorcycle rotation is prevented, but the suspension fork cannot compress and extend normally during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic unlocked state based on operational conditions. The pin can rotate between locked and unlocked positions, and the spring provides dynamic force to automatically unlock when compression force is applied, allowing the suspension to adapt between starting and normal operation modes
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-loaded to automatically unlock the pin when compression force is applied during normal operation. This preliminary action ensures that the locking mechanism is ready to release without requiring manual intervention, seamlessly transitioning from starting mode to normal operation mode
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent rotation during starting, then rider safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the existing suspension fork structure. The pin is received within the outer shaft and works in conjunction with the spring and compression forces already present in the suspension system, rather than adding a completely separate locking system
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is self-actuating through the interaction of the spring, pin, and compression forces. The spring automatically unlocks the pin when compression force is applied during normal operation, eliminating the need for external control systems or additional actuators
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
Prevents or limits motorcycle rotation during starting by maintaining the suspension fork in a compressed position, ensuring rider safety while allowing normal compression and extension during operation.
Implementation Method 1
The pin is biased into an unlocked position
Implementation Method 2
The pin is configured to rotate about a second longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 3
The pin can be moved from the starting position to the locked position by applying a compressive force to the suspension rod. The compressive force can be applied along the first longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 4
A lowered tapered surface of the pin can advance along an upper tapered surface of the locking plate as the pin advances past the locking plate
Data Source
AI summary
According to an aspect of the disclosed embodiments, an apparatus for a vehicle includes a locking plate configured to be coupled to a first shaft of a suspension rod. A housing is configured to be coupled to a second shaft of the suspension rod that moves relative to the first shaft. The housing extends along a first longitudinal axis. A pin is configured to rotate about a second longitudinal axis. A locking mechanism is configured to lock the pin in starting position.