Training Wheel Support Blocks for Indoor Cycling Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a training device that assists children in learning to ride bicycles with training wheels and allows bicycles with training wheels to be used as exercise equipment for indoor cycling, while being simple to use and inexpensive to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A training wheel training device comprising blocks with recesses and arcuate wheel support surfaces that securely hold training wheels, allowing the bicycle to be stationary for indoor exercises while preventing tipping, and enabling conventional pedaling for balance development.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If training wheels are mounted on a bicycle to assist children in learning to ride, then the bicycle becomes stable and prevents tipping, but the bicycle cannot be used as indoor exercise equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the support function from the bicycle itself by introducing separate blocks that independently support each training wheel. This allows the training wheels to remain attached to the bicycle for stability during outdoor use, while the blocks enable indoor stationary exercise by supporting the training wheels off the ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocks act as intermediary elements between the training wheels and the ground. They mediate the support function, allowing the training wheels to be elevated and prevented from contacting the ground during indoor exercise, while maintaining their attachment to the bicycle frame.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a bicycle stand is designed to hold the rear axle off the ground for indoor exercise, then indoor cycling is enabled, but it cannot accommodate bicycles with training wheels
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of supporting the entire bicycle or rear axle as a single unit, the device segments the support function to target only the training wheels individually. This segmentation allows the main bicycle structure and rear axle to remain free-moving for exercise while the training wheels are independently supported and elevated.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is applied locally at specific points where the training wheels contact the ground, rather than globally supporting the entire bicycle. Each block provides localized support under individual training wheels, allowing the rest of the bicycle to maintain its exercise functionality.
3Ease of manufacture
If blocks with recesses and arcuate surfaces are used to support training wheels, then the device is simple to manufacture and inexpensive, but complexity must be minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The arcuate wheel support surfaces are designed to self-align with the training wheels through geometry alone. The curved surfaces naturally guide the wheels into the correct position and orientation, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms, alignment features, or additional fastening components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing complex mechanisms to actively position and secure the training wheels, the invention inverts the approach by designing passive geometric surfaces that automatically position and hold the wheels through their shape alone, simplifying manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A training wheel training device is provided for use in connection with a bicycle having first and second training wheels mounted thereto. The training wheel device includes a block having a bottom surface engageable with a supporting surface and an upper surface spaced therefrom. The upper surface includes a recess formed therein. A wheel support surface has at least a portion spaced from the upper surface and partially defines the recess. The wheel support surface is adapted for receiving the first training wheel.