Bicycle Pedal Q-Factor Adjustment via Interchangeable Spacers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bicycle pedals lack effective and efficient Q-factor adjustment options, with existing solutions being either too expensive, complex, or providing limited and cumbersome adjustments, which can impact rider comfort, efficiency, and joint longevity.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle pedal design featuring a spindle assembly with interchangeable spacers that allow for fine-tuned Q-factor adjustments, reducing weight and stack height, and simplifying the structure for easy installation and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different length spindles are provided for Q-factor adjustment, then Q-factor adjustability is improved, but cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the Q-factor adjustment function into separate modular components: a standard spindle and interchangeable spacers. The spacers are segmented elements that can be independently added or removed to achieve different Q-factor settings, eliminating the need for multiple complete spindle assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the adjustment function from the spindle itself and implements it through separate spacer components. The spacers are removed from the spindle body and placed in the pedal body, separating the adjustment mechanism from the load-bearing spindle structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pedal body is located in different positions along the cartridge spindle assembly, then Q-factor adjustment is achieved, but structural strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces spacers as intermediary elements between the pedal body and the spindle assembly. These spacers act as mediators that adjust the relative position without compromising the structural integrity of the spindle or pedal body, maintaining strength while enabling adjustment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple washers are placed between the spindle and crank arm, then small Q-factor adjustment is achieved, but adjustment range remains extremely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the adjustment parameter from small washer thickness variations to larger spacer thickness variations. The spacers are designed with different thicknesses (e.g., 2mm, 4mm, 6mm) to provide a wider adjustment range while maintaining a simple implementation approach.
4Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable Q-factor mechanism is added to the pedal, then Q-factor customization is enabled, but stack height increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention moves the adjustment mechanism from the vertical dimension (stack height) to the horizontal dimension (axial position along the spindle). By adjusting the axial position of the pedal body relative to the spindle through spacers, Q-factor adjustment is achieved without increasing the vertical stack height.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle pedal, including a pedal body rotationally connected to a spindle assembly suitable to be coupled to a pedal crank, the pedal body having a central portion including a cylindrical seat in which the spindle assembly is inserted and rotatably supported. The pedal includes a plurality of spacers, inserted along the spindle assembly and/or inside the cylindrical seat, suitable to be relocated in order to modify the Q-factor of the pedal.