Separable Steering Pivot for Tool-Free Modular Vehicle Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for converting light vehicles, such as bicycles, into modular vehicles like cargo bikes are time-consuming, require tools, and often compromise steering precision and comfort due to play between the handlebar and front wheel, making them unsuitable for frequent use.
Innovation Solution
A conversion system featuring a separable steering pivot with a female and male junction, secured to the handlebar stem and front module respectively, using a locking mechanism to ensure rapid attachment without tools, maintaining steering precision, and preventing play.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing conversion systems are used to attach a front module to a light vehicle, then the vehicle can be converted into a modular vehicle, but the conversion process is time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The steering pivot is divided into two separate parts: a first part integrated with the handlebar stem and a second part integrated with the front module. This segmentation allows each part to be independently designed and manufactured, enabling quick attachment and detachment without requiring complex tools or extensive assembly steps, thus reducing conversion time while maintaining modular versatility
Solution Approach 2:
A locking mechanism serves as an intermediary component that quickly secures the two parts of the steering pivot together. This intermediary device enables rapid connection and disconnection of the front module, eliminating the need for traditional complex attachment procedures and significantly reducing conversion time
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing conversion systems are used to attach a front module, then modular functionality is achieved, but tools are required for attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be operated directly by the user without requiring external tools. The user can independently perform the attachment and detachment operations by simply manipulating the locking mechanism, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for additional tools, thus improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism acts as a user-friendly intermediary that simplifies the attachment operation. It provides a straightforward interface for the user to quickly secure the front module without needing to understand complex assembly procedures or use specialized tools, thereby enhancing operational simplicity
3Ease of operation
If clearance is provided between the fork steerer and attachment mechanism to facilitate insertion, then assembly is easier, but play appears between the handlebar and front wheel
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is extracted as a separate functional component that handles the securing operation. It is positioned to engage with the fork steerer and front module without requiring clearance that would compromise steering precision. The locking mechanism absorbs the insertion function while maintaining tight tolerances for steering accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves as an intermediary that resolves the conflict between assembly ease and steering precision. It provides a dedicated interface for insertion and securing operations, allowing the fork steerer and front module to be firmly connected without play, while still facilitating easy assembly through the locking mechanism's user-friendly operation
4Loss of time
If the steering pivot is made separable into two parts for quick conversion, then conversion time is reduced, but the complexity of the connection mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steering pivot is segmented into two parts with standardized interfaces. This segmentation enables quick conversion by allowing independent attachment and detachment of the front module. The standardized interfaces reduce the complexity of the connection mechanism by providing consistent, pre-engineered coupling points that simplify the joining process
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed as a universal component that can be integrated into various front module configurations. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by using a single standardized locking solution across different applications, rather than requiring custom connection mechanisms for each specific front module type
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system for converting a light vehicle into a modular light vehicle and vice versa, said light vehicle comprising a rear structure and a front module connected to said rear structure by means of a steering pivot, on which a handlebar stem (110) (100) is fixed, said conversion system being characterized in that said steering pivot is in two parts, a first part forming a female junction (1000) and a second part forming a male junction (2000), each of said female (1000) and male (2000) junctions being integral with said rear structure or said front module, said male junction (2000) being inserted into said female junction (1000) and in that a locking mechanism (1300), integrated in one of said female (1000) or male (2000) junctions, makes it possible to keep said male junction (2000) integral with said female junction (1000).