Reversible Saddle Clamp for Adjustable Offset and Pitch

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current seatpost and saddle clamp assemblies lack the ability to independently adjust saddle geometry for different riders and terrains, leading to discomfort and instability, as universal settings do not exist and require multiple assemblies for varying user preferences and conditions.

Innovation Solution

A reversible saddle clamp system that allows for adjustable offset and pitch of the saddle relative to the seatpost, enabling multiple configurations from a single parts set, including positive and negative offsets, to accommodate various rider preferences and terrain types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a universal saddle clamp assembly is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates as it cannot accommodate different riders and terrain requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of assembliesVSAvoidsaddle geometry adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The saddle clamp assembly incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration of saddle geometry. The offset adjustment mechanism enables the saddle to be positioned at different horizontal distances from the seatpost centerline, while the pitch adjustment mechanism allows independent rotation of the saddle rails to change the saddle's angle. This dynamic adjustability provides multiple saddle configurations from a single assembly, resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If saddle position is fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but rider comfort deteriorates due to inability to adjust for different riders

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment mechanismsVSAvoidrider comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system transforms the fixed saddle position into a dynamic, adjustable configuration through offset and pitch adjustment mechanisms. These mechanisms enable riders to customize saddle location and orientation to their anatomical requirements and riding preferences, significantly improving rider comfort without requiring multiple pre-configured assemblies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple saddle configurations are provided, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases requiring multiple assemblies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesaddle configurationsVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The saddle clamp assembly is designed as a universal, multi-functional unit that can produce multiple saddle configurations through its adjustment mechanisms. Rather than requiring separate assemblies for different configurations, this single assembly can accommodate various offset values and pitch angles, effectively providing multiple saddle setups without multiplying the number of physical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Manufacturing precision

If saddle orientation is fixed, then manufacturing precision is simplified, but rider stability deteriorates on different terrains

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesaddle orientationVSAvoidrider stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The pitch adjustment mechanism transforms the saddle orientation from a fixed manufacturing specification to a dynamic parameter that can be adjusted by the rider. This allows the saddle angle to be optimized for different riding conditions and terrains, improving rider stability and control without requiring multiple precision-manufactured assemblies with different fixed orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11919591B2Seatpost assembly having a reversible saddle clamp
Publication Date: 2024.03.05 FOX FACTORY INC
  • US11919591B2 patent drawing
  • US11919591B2 patent drawing
  • US11919591B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A seatpost assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes a housing fixedly coupled to a seatpost, the housing including at least one adjustable clamp assembly retaining member. The assembly also includes a reversable saddle rail clamp assembly, the reversable saddle rail clamping assembly having a bottom saddle rail clamping member and a top saddle rail clamping member. The top saddle rail clamping member is configured to be coupled with the bottom saddle rail clamping member in a first orientation to provide a first offset position, and further configured to be coupled with the bottom saddle rail clamping member in a second orientation to provide a second offset position different from said first offset position.