Variable Magnetic Binding System for Bicycle Pedals
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle pedals, particularly clipless pedals, pose a risk for beginner and intermediate riders due to difficulty in disengaging during falls, leading to crashes and fear of using such pedals, while traditional pedals only allow force exertion during the downstroke.
Innovation Solution
A variable magnetic binding system for bicycle pedals that allows riders to adjust the magnetic attraction between the pedal and shoe, providing stability and force application during both up and downstrokes, with customizable magnetic strength through removable magnets and spacers, facilitating easy disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If clipless pedals are used to provide stable foot planting and full-stroke force application, then riding stability and power transmission are improved, but ease of disengagement during falls deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical clipping mechanism with a magnetic field-based retention system. The magnetic pedal uses magnetic attraction forces to hold the rider's foot in place during normal operation, but allows easy release when needed, eliminating the safety concerns associated with mechanical clipless pedals while maintaining full-stroke power transmission capability
2Stability of the object's composition
If magnetic attraction strength is increased to improve foot stability, then foot stability is improved, but ease of disengagement worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the magnetic attraction strength adjustable rather than fixed. Riders can modify the magnetic field strength by changing the distance between the magnetic components or adjusting the magnetic element configuration, allowing optimization of the balance between retention strength during pedaling and ease of release when needed
3Adaptability or versatility
If magnetic components are made adjustable to customize magnetic force, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic retention system into separate, independently adjustable components. The magnetic elements are segmented into distinct parts that can be individually positioned or removed, allowing riders to customize the magnetic force by adjusting individual components rather than redesigning the entire pedal structure
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
The system enhances rider safety by allowing natural foot movement to disengage during falls and provides customizable magnetic force, addressing the limitations of existing pedals by enabling force application throughout the pedaling stroke while ensuring ease of use and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic body creates a magnetic field that magnetically attracts a shoe piece when the shoe piece is in near proximity
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable magnetic binding system used for attaching a shoe to a bicycle pedal. The magnetic element is integrated into the bicycle pedal in such a manner as to exert attractive forces to the shoe, which contains a shoe piece. The pedal may contain a variety of differently shaped, sized, or number of magnets, which may be retained within the pedal by a protective layer of material. These variables can be easily modified to suit the rider's skill level and desired attractive force to the pedal. The shoe is further secured onto the pedal by means of a retaining system. The shoe is readily removed by the rider with a natural rotation of the foot, which breaks the attractive force.