Scooter Neck Assembly Dual-Step Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scooter designs face challenges in collapsing or reconfiguring for storage while maintaining a robust and secure design, particularly for the steering column and seat, leading to joints and locking mechanisms prone to failure.
Innovation Solution
A scooter assembly with a reconfigurable neck assembly and seat assembly that allows the steering column to be extended and retracted securely, using a dual-step locking mechanism with a neck latch and pivot throat latch system, and a seat pivot assembly that adjusts for user comfort and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional folding mechanisms are used along the footboard or deck, then the scooter can be collapsed for storage, but the mechanisms are prone to accidental activation and take up space on the deck
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism is segmented into distinct components: a folding lever, a folding cam, and a folding slot. The folding cam is positioned away from the deck in a folding cam position, separating the collapsing function from the deck area. This segmentation prevents accidental activation while maintaining the ability to collapse the scooter for storage.
2Device complexity
If a single locking mechanism is used for the steering column, then the design is simple, but the joint is prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism employs local quality through differentiated locking features: a folding slot with locking protrusions for the folding joint, and a separate pivot slot with locking protrusions for the steering column pivot joint. Each joint has its own specialized locking structure, providing enhanced reliability without excessive overall complexity.
3Device complexity
If the steering column is rotated about a single pivot point, then the mechanism is simple, but it is prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot mechanism is segmented into a pivot slot and a pivot protrusion that rotates within it. The pivot slot is defined in the folding cam, separating the pivot function from the traditional single pivot point on the deck. This segmentation allows for better load distribution and reduced stress on any single point, enhancing reliability.
4Volume of moving object
If a reconfigurable seat is implemented, then the scooter can be collapsed for storage, but the mechanism is cumbersome when the user stands on the deck
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly is made dynamic through the folding mechanism, allowing it to transition between a deployed position (providing seating) and a collapsed position (reducing storage volume). The folding slot and locking protrusions enable the seat to be securely positioned in either configuration, accommodating both seated and standing user positions without being cumbersome.
Data Source
AI summary
A scooter apparatus and methods of use are disclosed where the scooter comprises a locking assembly generally having a neck latch cam having an elongate member and an angled member configured to rotate relative to a first pivot and a pivot throat latch positioned in proximity to the angled member and configured to rotate relative to a second pivot when actuated via the angled member. The locking assembly further includes a neck latch configured to rotate relative to a third pivot and a neck latch receiving member configured to lock a position of the neck latch when rotated about the third pivot upon actuation of the neck latch cam when rotated about the first pivot and the pivot throat latch when rotated about the second pivot.