Telescoping Motorcycle Stand with Ratcheting Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional side stands for motorcycles are not adaptable to uneven terrain and varying conditions such as changes in suspension settings or cargo loads, and are prone to fouling from environmental factors like water and ice, requiring an adjustable and durable solution for stable parking.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping support stand with a ratcheting mechanism and extension spring, allowing for adjustable length and angular positioning, featuring a tilted locking plate that locks in any position without fixed adjustment points, and bushings to prevent rotation, made from durable materials like tempered or stainless steel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length side stand is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but it cannot adapt to uneven terrain or varying vehicle heights
Solution Approach 1:
The side stand is divided into multiple telescoping segments (outer tube and inner tube) that can extend and retract relative to each other, enabling length adjustment to adapt to different terrain conditions and vehicle heights while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The side stand transitions from a fixed-length static structure to a dynamically adjustable length structure through the telescoping mechanism with ratcheting locking, allowing the stand to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements
2Ease of operation
If a traditional adjustment mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but it requires tools and cannot be adjusted while balancing the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The ratcheting mechanism allows the inner tube to be manually extended and locked at any position without requiring tools, enabling the operator to adjust the stand length while balancing the vehicle by simply applying force to overcome the ratchet engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism transitions from a static, tool-dependent system to a dynamic, tool-free system where the stand can be quickly adjusted during vehicle operation through the ratcheting design
3Manufacturing precision
If a fixed adjustment mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot lock in any position along the length of travel
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into the ratcheting mechanism with teeth engagement, allowing the inner tube to be locked at any position along its travel range rather than at fixed predetermined positions, providing continuous incremental positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from fixed-position locking to continuous-position locking through the ratcheting design, enabling the stand to be secured at any point along the telescoping range while maintaining mechanical simplicity
4Reliability
If traditional materials are used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the stand is prone to fouling from water, dirt and ice
Solution Approach 1:
The side stand components are manufactured from tempered steel or stainless steel, which provide enhanced resistance to environmental fouling from water, dirt, and ice while maintaining manufacturability through standard metalworking processes
Solution Approach 2:
The material properties are changed through heat treatment (tempering) or alloy selection (stainless steel) to improve resistance to environmental fouling and mechanical durability while keeping the manufacturing process relatively simple
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
Enables stable parking on uneven terrain with quick length adjustment and resistance to environmental fouling, providing infinite incremental positioning and secure locking under varying loads, maintaining stability and durability.
Implementation Method 1
an extension spring that is fit within the hollow interior of the outer telescoping member and the hollow interior of the inner support member, wherein the extension spring includes an upper end which is attached at a point at the top portion of the outer telescoping member and a lower end attached at a point at the bottom portion of the lower telescoping assembly and wherein the extension spring allows the inner support member to extend and retract relative to the outer telescoping member
Implementation Method 2
a ratcheting mechanism positioned within a clutch body housing for locking the inner support member with respect to the outer telescoping member, wherein the ratcheting mechanism is lockable in any position along a length of travel between the outer telescoping member and the inner support member
Implementation Method 3
an outer telescoping member having a hollow interior attached to a vehicle frame via a pivot point and a fastener which allows for angular movement of the support stand with respect to the vehicle along the pivot point
Data Source
AI summary
An extendable and retractable support stand for holding a parked vehicle such as a motorcycle, bicycle or similar vehicle which is otherwise unstable in an upright position. The support stand has the ability to be locked into place without the need for fixed locking positions by means of a tilted plate locking mechanism that can be operated by the operator using only one foot irrespective of the orientation of the support stand. The support members may include an outer telescoping member pivotally attach to the vehicle frame, an inner support member, a support pad, a running clutch mechanism that automatically locks the telescoping members, and a refraction spring to automatically return the stand to the minimum length when the clutch mechanism is disengaged.