Shock Absorbing Grip Assembly with Elastomeric Isolators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handlebar grips either fail to provide adequate shock absorption, leading to rider fatigue, or are too stiff for comfortable motion control, and lack a design that can be easily retro-fitted to existing handlebars.
Innovation Solution
The Shock Absorbing Grip Assembly features a slotted grip end clamp with elastomeric isolator members and O-rings that create a firm but floating sensation, isolating the grip from handlebar movement, allowing for adjustable cushioning and free-floating grip action, suitable for various vehicles and tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the grip is made too soft to provide shock absorption, then comfort is improved, but motion control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grip is divided into multiple functional segments: an inner grip portion made of firm material for motion control, and an outer grip portion made of soft material for comfort and shock absorption. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specialized function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The grip assembly uses composite construction with at least two different materials having different durometers - a firmer inner material and a softer outer material. This composite structure enables the grip to simultaneously provide motion control (through the firm inner layer) and shock absorption (through the soft outer layer).
2Reliability
If the grip is made too stiff to provide motion control, then precision is improved, but comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grip is divided into multiple functional segments: an inner grip portion made of firm material for motion control, and an outer grip portion made of soft material for comfort and shock absorption. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specialized function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The grip assembly uses composite construction with at least two different materials having different durometers - a firmer inner material and a softer outer material. This composite structure enables the grip to simultaneously provide motion control (through the firm inner layer) and shock absorption (through the soft outer layer).
3Ease of operation
If the grip is made soft to absorb shock, then comfort is improved, but the grip cannot be easily retro-fitted to existing handlebars
Solution Approach 1:
The grip is divided into multiple functional segments: an inner grip portion made of firm material for motion control, and an outer grip portion made of soft material for comfort and shock absorption. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specialized function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The grip assembly is designed with universal compatibility features, including an inner grip portion that can fit various handlebar diameters and configurations. The modular two-piece construction allows the same basic design to be adapted to different handlebars, enhancing retro-fit capability while maintaining comfort features.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design effectively reduces hand and arm fatigue, joint stress, and impact by providing controlled shock absorption and motion independence, enhancing comfort and performance across different activities.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomeric isolator members are inserted into cavities in the grip assembly to provide shock absorption and vibration damping
Implementation Method 2
The elastomeric isolator members are inserted into cavities in the grip assembly to provide shock absorption and vibration damping
Implementation Method 3
The elastomeric isolator members are inserted into cavities in the grip assembly... giving the grip a firm but floating sensation
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention is directed to a shock absorbing grip assembly that has been designed to give a controlled floating action to the grip that can be adjusted by varying the different cushioning isolator mechanisms within the grip, or by varying the number of tuning washers. The shock absorbing grip assembly is comprised of one or more grip end clamps; one or more cavities in said grip end clams; a grip sleeve having one or more protruding engagement members integral to an inner grip sleeve; and optionally one or more elastomeric isolator inserts housed within each of said one or more cavities in said grip end clamps, wherein said one or more protruding engagement members mates within said grip end clamp cavities optionally housing said elastomeric isolator inserts; and an outer elastomer grip; whereby said inner grip sleeve is suspended and has torsional, rotational, linear and axial shock absorbing capacity.