Trailer Torque Support to Isolate Brake Loads From Wheel Swing Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bicycle trailers with sprung and damped wheel suspensions face instability and reduced controllability due to high torque forces acting on the wheel swing arm during braking and acceleration, leading to unintended rotation and increased wear, especially when carrying heavy loads.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a torque arm that supports the functional device directly on the chassis, bypassing the wheel swing arm, allowing forces to be predominantly transferred to the chassis while the wheel swing arm is used solely for suspension and damping, preventing torque transmission and enhancing stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the functional device is supported on the wheel swing arm, then the structure is simpler, but the wheel swing arm is subjected to high torque forces causing unintended rotation and reduced stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the force transmission path into two separate functions: the wheel swing arm handles only suspension forces, while a dedicated torque support structure handles braking and acceleration forces. This segmentation prevents torque from being transmitted to the swing arm, eliminating unintended rotation and improving handling stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque support acts as an intermediary structure between the functional device (brake/accelerator) and the chassis. It provides a separate force transmission path that bypasses the wheel swing arm, allowing torque to be transferred to the chassis without affecting the suspension system's stability.
2Device complexity
If the functional device is supported on the wheel swing arm, then fewer components are needed, but the wheel swing arm is subjected to increased stress leading to higher wear and reduced service life
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the torque transmission function from the suspension function, each component can be optimized for its specific purpose. The wheel swing arm is relieved of high torque stresses, reducing wear and extending service life, while the torque support structure is designed specifically to handle braking and acceleration forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts: the wheel swing arm is designed for suspension with appropriate damping characteristics, while the torque support structure is designed with high strength to handle torque loads. This localized optimization ensures each component performs its function reliably without being overloaded.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a torque support is introduced to bypass the wheel swing arm, then handling stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque support serves as an intermediary structure that adds minimal complexity while solving the stability problem. It provides a dedicated path for torque transmission from the functional device to the chassis, preventing torque from affecting the wheel swing arm and improving handling stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque support structure is designed to handle multiple functions: it transmits braking forces, acceleration forces, and reaction forces from the functional device to the chassis. This multi-functionality consolidates several force transmission paths into a single structural element, minimizing the increase in overall complexity.
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 results in significantly more stable and safe driving behavior, particularly during emergency braking, and extends the service life of components by allowing for optimized design of the torque arm and wheel swing arm for their respective functions.
Implementation Method 1
The swing arm can be acted upon by a spring and/or damper device
Implementation Method 2
sprung and damped wheel suspensions
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a vehicle trailer, in particular for a bicycle or a pedelec, comprising a chassis (1) and at least one wheel swing arm (2) arranged on the chassis (1), with at least one wheel, and with at least one functional device held by the wheel swing arm for braking and/or accelerating one wheel. To enable safe and comfortable handling and to reduce wear, the bicycle trailer has a torque support (14) with which the functional device can be supported on the chassis (1) bypassing the wheel swing arm (2).