Bicycle Pedal Slider Assembly for Skeletal Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bicycle pedal configurations assume a uniform skeletal structure for riders, leading to joint binding issues due to a fixed and rigid distance between the pedal and the bicycle frame, which does not accommodate individual skeletal variations, forcing riders to compensate with internal joint adjustments during pedaling.
Innovation Solution
A bicycle pedal slider assembly that allows lateral movement of the pedals relative to the bicycle frame, enabling each rider to create a pedaling path that aligns with their skeletal structure, with adjustable travel lengths and a locking mechanism for customizable mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed and rigid distance is maintained between the pedal and the bicycle frame center line, then the pedal structure remains simple and stable, but it causes joint binding issues and does not accommodate individual skeletal variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed rigid pedal structure into a dynamic sliding mechanism. The pedal is mounted on a slider assembly that allows lateral movement along the crank arm, enabling the pedal distance from the frame center line to vary. This dynamic adjustment accommodates different skeletal structures while maintaining structural stability through guided motion constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the key geometric parameter (pedal-to-frame distance) to vary within a range rather than remaining fixed. The slider mechanism enables continuous adjustment of this parameter to match individual rider anatomy, while the locking mechanism provides discrete stable positions. This transforms a static parameter into a variable one that adapts to user needs.
2Ease of operation
If the pedal is allowed to move laterally freely, then it accommodates natural joint movement paths, but it introduces instability and requires additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The slider mechanism provides dynamic adaptability during pedaling, allowing the pedal to move laterally to accommodate natural joint paths. The guided sliding motion ensures controlled movement within specific limits, preventing excessive or uncontrolled lateral displacement that would compromise stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded locking mechanism operates automatically based on the pedal position. When the pedal reaches a stable position in its lateral movement range, the locking mechanism engages to maintain that position. This self-servicing system provides stability only when needed, allowing free movement during the transition phases of pedaling.
3Ease of manufacture
If the pedal structure is made rigid and fixed, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but it forces riders to compensate with internal joint adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding pedal assembly maintains relative simplicity in manufacturing by using standard slider mechanisms and guided motion components. The structure remains mechanically straightforward with defined movement paths, avoiding complex adaptive systems while still enabling adjustment to accommodate different rider anatomies without joint compensation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable travel lengths and locking mechanisms are added, then customizable fit is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables customizable fit by allowing the pedal travel length parameter to be adjusted and locked at different positions. Multiple locking positions correspond to different travel lengths, providing discrete customizable options for riders with varying anatomical requirements while maintaining a relatively simple adjustment mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A pedal slider assembly that allows for a normal pedal affixed to a normal bicycle to slide laterally outwardly away from the bicycle frame and back inwardly towards the bicycle frame allowing the rider to find their bodies natural pedal placement as it travels through the rotational pedaling path based on their specific skeletal structure restrictions, (those being the width of an individual's hips, knees, and ankles) as those positions dictate the center line of the user and as those positions are directly affected by the pedal relationship to the center line of the bicycle frame, additionally there is a multitude of lateral movement length options for the rider to utilize to garner specific exercise benefits.