Automatic Cycle Pedal with Selectable Elastic Return Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic pedals for cycles lack a simple method to adjust the engagement/release tension without requiring the use of tools, and some models do not have any adjustment system, making it difficult for cyclists to customize the fit.
Innovation Solution
An automatic cycle pedal with a system that allows selection from a plurality of elastic members to adjust the elastic return force, including coil springs and blades that can be stressed in buckling or bending, using an adjustment system with a selection slider or push buttons to achieve predefined tension values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a screw/nut system or cam adjustment system is used to adjust the elastic return force, then the engagement/release tension can be adjusted, but a tool is required for the adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The pedal allows the user to adjust the elastic return force independently without requiring external tools. The selection slider mechanism enables the user to directly engage different elastic members (springs or blades) to achieve desired tension levels, making the adjustment process self-service and tool-free
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides discrete parameter changes in elastic return force by selecting from predefined elastic members with different stiffness characteristics. The selection slider allows the user to switch between different springs or blades, each providing a specific tension level, thereby achieving parameter adjustment without continuous tuning
2Adaptability or versatility
If the elastic return force is fixed without adjustment system, then the pedal structure remains simple, but the user cannot customize the fit
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic return system is segmented into multiple discrete elastic members (different springs or blades) with varying stiffness characteristics. The selection slider allows the user to choose from these segmented options, providing fit customization while keeping each individual component simple
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed elastic return force to a dynamic, adjustable system where the user can select different elastic members based on their foot size and preference. The selection slider mechanism enables this dynamic adjustment without requiring complex continuous adjustment systems
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 easy adjustment of the engagement/release tension without tools, providing customizable fit options for cyclists and enhancing user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic return means connected on the one hand to said rear attachment member, and on the other hand to said pedal body
Implementation Method 2
the elastic return means consists of a metal coil spring which can operate in compression
Implementation Method 3
a blade, for example made of carbon, stressed in buckling
Implementation Method 4
a blade capable, when it is selected by said adjustment system, of being stressed along its longitudinal axis in buckling
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an automatic cycle pedal comprising a pedal body (1) rotatably mounted on a pedal axle (2), the pedal body (1) having attachment means (3, 4) for a retaining plate fixed under a shoe, consisting of a fixed front attachment member (3) and a movable rear attachment member (4) pivotally mounted on the pedal body (1) around an axis of rotation (6), between a retaining position of the plate engaged between the front and rear attachment members (3, 4), and a release position of the plate by pivoting the rear attachment member (4) against the action of an elastic return means, the pedal further comprising an adjustment system (8) for a return force of the elastic return means in order to adjust a fitting/unfitting tension.According to the invention, the elastic return means is composed of a variable number of elastic elements (70-72) each having one end connected to the rear attachment element (4) and another end connected to the pedal body (1), selected from a plurality of elastic elements (70-72) extending between the rear attachment element (4) and the pedal body (1), and the adjustment system (8) is capable of selecting the elastic elements composing said elastic return means to achieve a predefined value of engagement/disengagement tension.