Motorcycle Stabilizer Bar with Actuator for Low-Speed Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Riders with limited leg mobility face challenges in balancing and supporting motorcycles at low speeds or when stationary due to insufficient leg strength or mobility, necessitating a stabilization system for two-wheeled motorized vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A stabilizer system that can be mounted to various motorcycles, featuring an electrically or hydraulically powered actuator to raise and lower a support bar, controlled via a handlebar switch or microcontroller, allowing automatic deployment based on lean angle and speed thresholds to stabilize the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rider with limited leg mobility operates a motorcycle, then the rider can use the motorcycle for transportation, but the rider cannot balance or support the motorcycle at low speeds or when stationary
Solution Approach 1:
A stabilizer bar with ground-contacting wheels is introduced as an intermediary device between the motorcycle and the ground. This mediator provides the necessary support and stability that the rider's limited leg mobility cannot provide, enabling the rider to operate the motorcycle safely at low speeds and when stationary.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual balancing mechanism (rider using leg strength to balance the motorcycle) is replaced with an automated mechanical stabilizer system. The stabilizer bar, actuated by an electric or hydraulic actuator, automatically provides support without requiring the rider to exert leg strength, thus substituting the rider's mechanical balancing action with an automated system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a stabilizer system is added to the motorcycle, then low-speed stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a stabilizer bar with wheels, an actuator mechanism (electric or hydraulic), and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation and maintenance, reducing the overall system complexity despite adding stabilization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer bar serves multiple functions: it provides lateral stability, supports the motorcycle weight when stationary, and can be automatically deployed or retracted based on riding conditions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems, thereby managing complexity while achieving comprehensive low-speed stabilization.
3Extent of automation
If an actuator system is installed to control the stabilizer bar, then automated stabilization is achieved, but the weight of the motorcycle increases
Solution Approach 1:
A hydraulic actuator system is used to control the stabilizer bar. Hydraulic systems provide high force output with relatively compact components, achieving automated stabilization while minimizing the weight added to the motorcycle compared to equivalent electric motor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system parameters (power source, actuation force, response time) are optimized to achieve the minimum necessary weight for effective stabilization. The system uses the motorcycle's existing electrical or hydraulic systems where possible, and the actuator is sized to provide just enough force to deploy and retract the stabilizer bar, avoiding excessive weight.
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
Enables riders with limited leg mobility to safely operate motorcycles by providing stabilization at low speeds and when stationary, adaptable to different motorcycle types and models, enhancing rider safety and operational capability.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator including an electric motor and a piston, wherein the electric motor is configured to extend and retract the piston
Implementation Method 2
The stabilizer bar is configured to pivot between a raised and lowered position based on movement of the piston of the actuator
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a stabilizer system to a rider having limited leg mobility to operate a motorized vehicle having one or more wheels. Multiple embodiments are described, with differing embodiments configured for different mounting positions on different types, makes, and models of motorcycle. One embodiment can mount to a rear frame mount of a sport style motorcycle, while another embodiment can be configured to mount to a lower frame mount of various styles and types of motorcycles. Each embodiment can be controlled via a handlebar mounted switch device, which can be used to raise or lower a stabilization system via an electrically and/or hydraulically powered actuator.