Folding Scooter Pivot Assembly for Rattle-Free Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scooters suffer from rattling noises and wobbling movements due to loose pivot assemblies, require side-specific kickstand engagement, and have unfashionable and uncomfortable handgrips.
Innovation Solution
A pivot assembly with a knob mechanism that secures the handlebar assembly to the deck, a retractable center stand accessible from either side, and ergonomically designed handgrips with a triangular shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a pivot assembly is used to allow the scooter to fold, then the scooter can have a reduced overall size and be easier to store and carry, but the pivot assembly becomes loose during use causing rattling noises and wobbling movements
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot assembly is divided into separate components: a pivot member with a pivot axis, a pivot arm with a pivot hole, and a retention mechanism. This segmentation allows the assembly to be both movable for folding and secure for use, resolving the contradiction between compactness and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
A retention mechanism acts as an intermediary element between the pivot member and pivot arm. This intermediary component prevents excessive movement and rattling while still allowing the necessary folding motion, thereby maintaining both compact storage size and operational stability.
2Device complexity
If a kickstand is mounted on one side of the scooter deck, then the kickstand structure is simplified, but the user must operate the kickstand from a specific side which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The kickstand is designed with a universal mounting structure that can be engaged from either side of the scooter. The kickstand member includes features that allow it to be actuated by users on the left or right side, making the operation independent of the user's preferred side while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
3Ease of operation
If handgrips are made substantially cylindrical to enhance gripping ability, then the gripping function is improved, but the appearance becomes dated and unfashionable
Solution Approach 1:
The handgrip employs a curved or ergonomic shape that deviates from the traditional cylindrical form. This curved design maintains the gripping functionality through proper contouring while achieving a more modern and fashionable appearance, resolving the contradiction between functional simplicity and aesthetic appeal.
Data Source
AI summary
A variety of scooters are disclosed. In some embodiments, a scooter can include a pivot assembly that allows the scooter to move between a folded and unfolded configuration. The pivot assembly can include a knob that frees a pin from a bracket to allow the scooter to fold. Turing the knob increases compressive forces on elements of the pivot assembly to reduce rattling noise and wobbling movement when the scooter is in use. Some embodiments of the scooter can include a center stand that can be deployed from either side of the scooter deck to stabilize the scooter when the scooter is stationary. Certain embodiments have an ergonomic handgrip.