Motorcycle Step Structure Muffler Stay Heel Guard Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing motorcycle step structures are complex and bulky due to separate pillion step holders and muffler supporting parts, increasing the number of components and complicating the design around the main step.
Innovation Solution
The muffler stay is integrated to serve as a heel guard, extending downward from the body frame and featuring foot positioning portions, while a movable step support member and brake components are strategically arranged to reduce parts and enhance compactness, with the brake hose partially overlapping the muffler stay for aesthetic improvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate pillion step holder and cover member are used, then heel guard function is provided, but number of parts increases and structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cover member and pillion step holder into a single integrated component. The cover member is formed as an integral part of the pillion step holder, eliminating the need for separate parts while maintaining the heel guard function. This merging reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated pillion step holder serves multiple functions: it supports the pillion step, provides heel guard protection, and structurally connects to the body frame. By making the cover member integral to the holder, the structure achieves multi-functionality without requiring additional components.
2Strength
If pillion step holder extends upward toward rear, then structural support is provided, but holder becomes enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orientation of the pillion step holder by extending it forward toward the front of the vehicle instead of upward toward the rear. This dimensional change in orientation provides the necessary structural support while reducing the volume occupied by the holder, achieving a more compact design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used, then functional requirements are met, but mass centralization is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cover member and pillion step holder into a single integrated component, which facilitates mass centralization. By reducing the number of separate parts and their associated mounting hardware, the overall mass distribution becomes more centralized, improving vehicle dynamics.
Data Source
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AI summary
To reduce the number of parts of a step structure, and achieve a compact and simple structure, in a motorcycle in which: an engine main body of an engine, which exerts power for driving a rear wheel, is mounted on a body frame; a main step on which a rider's foot is placed is supported to the body frame; and an exhaust muffler, to which exhaust gas from the engine main body is introduced, is supported by a muffler stay attached to the body frame. A muffler stay (42), which is attached to attachment portions (43), (44) provided in a body frame F above a main step (41), extends downward toward the rear from the attachment portions (43), (44), and functions as a heel guard for a rider placing his/her foot on the main step (41).