Motorcycle Frame Rake Adapter Block for Trail Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for adjusting the rake and trail angles of a motorcycle are complex, unreliable, and lack a simple, accurate, and permanent solution for achieving desired performance and stability, especially when changing the front wheel size.

Innovation Solution

A motorcycle rake apparatus comprising an adapter block with a bent longitudinal axis, which is inserted into the hollow portions of the motorcycle frame to extend the neck and adjust the rake angle, combined with a method of connecting the adapter block to the front fork and rear frame assemblies through an interference fit or welding, and optionally including fork stops and cradle rail gussets for stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing methods for adjusting rake angle are used, then adjustment capability is provided, but the solution is complex and unreliable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverake angle adjustment capabilityVSAvoidadjustment system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into separate sections (front fork assembly and rear frame assembly) that can be independently positioned and connected through the adapter block, allowing rake angle adjustment without complex mechanical systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An adapter block serves as an intermediary component between the front fork assembly and rear frame assembly, providing a simple interface for achieving desired rake angles through interference fit or welding connections

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If existing adjustment methods are used, then some adjustment is possible, but permanent and reliable adjustment is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustment permanenceVSAvoidframe modification simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter block is pre-designed with specific geometry and connection features that enable reliable permanent attachment through interference fit or welding, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms while maintaining ease of installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter block fits into hollow portions of both the front fork assembly and rear frame assembly, creating a nested structure that provides stable, permanent connection while simplifying the manufacturing process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the rake angle is extended for desired look and performance, then aesthetic and performance goals are met, but steering axis alignment precision is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverake angle variationVSAvoidsteering axis alignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter block geometry is specifically designed with precise angles and dimensions that maintain accurate steering axis alignment while allowing variation in rake angle, ensuring both aesthetic customization and manufacturing precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9365255B1Method and apparatus for raking a motorcycle frame

Publication Date: 2016.06.14 YAFFE PAUL

AI summary

The present invention is directed to an apparatus for, and method of, raking a motorcycle, and to a motorcycle with a raked frame.