Removable Bicycle Pedal Positioner Using Offset Gravity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle pedal positioning devices add weight to the bicycle, require additional attachments, and are not removable, leading to decreased performance in racing contexts.
Innovation Solution
A removable pedal positioner comprising a bridge, prongs, a mounting post, and a pin that engages with the crank arm and pedal to position the pedal in a generally horizontal position without adding weight, featuring a multifurcated mounting post and flexible clamps for secure and adjustable attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If counterweights or additional attachments are used to position the pedal, then the pedal can be positioned in a horizontal position, but the overall weight of the bicycle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the positioning function from separate counterweights or attachments and integrates it directly into the pedal structure itself. The pedal body is designed with an offset center of gravity that provides the positioning function without requiring additional components, thereby eliminating the weight penalty of separate positioning devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning function is merged with the pedal structure by integrating the offset center of gravity design into the pedal body. This combines the structural support function and the positioning function into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate counterweights or positioning attachments.
2Ease of operation
If prior art positioning devices are used, then the pedal can be positioned, but the device must remain on the bicycle when in use and cannot be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the positioning characteristic dynamic and situation-dependent. The offset center of gravity provides automatic positioning when the bicycle is stationary or moving slowly, but the positioning effect diminishes at higher speeds where dynamic forces dominate, effectively making the device self-adjusting rather than a fixed constraint.
Data Source
AI summary
A removable pedal positioner to engage a crank arm and a pedal of a bicycle to position the pedal in a generally horizontal position. One embodiment comprises a bridge, at least one prong, and a mounting post. The mounting post engages the crank arm while the at least one prong extends past the crank arm to position the pedal in a generally horizontal position. In other embodiments, the positioner utilizes a flexible clamp to secure the positioner to the crank arm thereby positioning the pedal in a generally horizontal position.