Monolithic Polymer Bobsleigh with Directional Grooves
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and specialized requirements of traditional bobsleighs make the sport inaccessible for recreational use, as they are expensive and require extensive training and specific facilities.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic polymer bobsleigh design with a nose section, sides, and underside featuring a seating pit, directional grooves, winglets, a pull rope with a spring, and a fixed rudder, along with safety straps and adjustable friction nipples, to be used on existing snow sports slopes, providing control and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional bobsleigh design is used, then speed and performance are improved, but cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a monolithic polymer body instead of expensive traditional materials like aluminum or steel. The polymer construction provides sufficient performance for recreational use while being significantly cheaper and easier to manufacture, accepting that the device may have a shorter service life but meeting the needs of casual users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by incorporating carbon fiber reinforcement within the polymer matrix. This combination provides enhanced structural strength and stiffness necessary for maintaining speed and performance while keeping the overall design simpler and more cost-effective than traditional metal construction.
2Reliability
If traditional bobsleigh is used, then performance on dedicated tracks is improved, but accessibility to recreational users decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a bobsleigh that can function on various types of slopes including dedicated bobsleigh tracks, snow tubing slopes, and general winter recreation areas. The monolithic polymer design with standardized dimensions and features like the pull rope and braking surface allows it to be used across multiple recreational contexts rather than being restricted to specialized facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by adjusting the geometric dimensions, surface characteristics, and material properties of the bobsleigh to optimize performance across different slope conditions. The design incorporates adjustable elements like the pull rope length and braking surface area to adapt to varying slope gradients and snow conditions, enhancing versatility while maintaining reliable performance.
3Reliability
If extensive training is required, then safety and performance are improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by incorporating safety features that automatically function without requiring operator intervention or training. The monolithic design includes integrated seat belts, automatic braking mechanisms, and stable center of gravity characteristics that provide inherent safety. Users can simply enter the bobsleigh and the safety systems activate automatically, eliminating the need for extensive training while maintaining high safety standards.
4Strength
If expensive materials are used, then structural strength is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by combining polymer matrix with carbon fiber reinforcement. This composite approach achieves structural strength comparable to traditional metal bobsleighes while dramatically reducing material costs and simplifying manufacturing. The carbon fiber-polymer composite can be molded directly into the final shape, eliminating expensive metalworking processes and reducing overall manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies merging by combining multiple structural functions into a single monolithic polymer body. Instead of assembling separate metal components through complex welding and fastening processes, the entire bobsleigh structure including the shell, seat, and structural supports is formed as one integrated polymer component. This merging of functions reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining structural integrity.
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
The design offers an affordable and accessible recreational bobsleigh experience by reducing friction, enhancing control, and ensuring safety on various slopes, making the sport more appealing for leisure activities.
Implementation Method 1
a pulling spring located in the hollow volume
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of winglets are located on the sides with one winglet on each of the sides of a front portion of the bobsleigh and one winglet for each of the sides of a rear portion of the bobsleigh
Implementation Method 3
The underside has a plurality of grooves for directional control
Implementation Method 4
A fixed rudder is used for keeping the bobsleigh on course
Data Source
AI summary
A bobsleigh for recreational use has a monolithic body having a nose section, two sides, and an underside. Each side towards the rear of the bobsleigh has a push handle. The nose section, the sides; and the underside defining an interior seating pit comprised of a long seat which forms an integral part of the underside. The underside has a plurality of grooves for directional control. The underside defines a hollow volume. Inside the pit, the grooves and space in between the grooves define a floor area. The seat has a top portion defining a seating surface, two sides, a front portion; and a rear portion thereof.