Variable-trim Fork for Mountain Bikes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mountain bikes require a frame that allows for easy and rapid adjustment of the steering tube's angle to accommodate varying terrain, as a greater inclination improves control on downhill runs but becomes uncomfortable on flat terrain, necessitating a versatile and reliable solution for angle adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A variable-trim frame with a fork that connects the handlebar to the front wheel hub, featuring a tubular sleeve with a spherical joint hinge and regulating means to adjust the angle of the fork relative to the ground, allowing for precise and easy inclination changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the steering tube has a greater inclination angle for downhill control, then control stability is improved, but comfort and handlebar usability on flat terrain deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a variable inclination angle system that allows the steering tube to dynamically change its angle relative to the frame. The fork assembly can be adjusted between multiple predetermined angles (e.g., 70°, 73°, 76°, 79°) using regulating means, enabling the rider to optimize the steering geometry for different terrain conditions - steeper angles for downhill control and shallower angles for flat terrain comfort
2Reliability
If the steering tube inclination is fixed for a specific terrain, then performance for that terrain is optimized, but adaptability to varying terrain deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transforms the fixed inclination design into a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The fork assembly incorporates regulating means with blocking means that enable the rider to select from multiple predetermined inclination angles, providing adaptability to various terrain types while maintaining optimized performance for each specific condition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the steering tube inclination angle from a fixed value to a variable parameter. By providing multiple predetermined angles (70°, 73°, 76°, 79°), the system allows riders to adjust the fork assembly to match different terrain requirements, thereby achieving both terrain-specific optimization and overall versatility
3Adaptability or versatility
If the steering tube inclination is adjusted frequently for different terrains, then adaptability is improved, but adjustment complexity and time required deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables rapid adjustment between multiple predetermined inclination angles through a straightforward regulating mechanism. The blocking means allow the rider to quickly lock the fork assembly at the desired angle without complex procedures, minimizing adjustment time while maintaining full adaptability to different terrains
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides multiple predetermined inclination angles (70°, 73°, 76°, 79°) that have been pre-calculated and optimized for specific terrain conditions. This eliminates the need for complex real-time calculations or adjustments, allowing riders to simply select the appropriate pre-set angle for their current terrain, thereby reducing adjustment time and 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
Enables users to effortlessly adjust the steering tube's angle to suit different terrains, enhancing control and comfort by allowing the fork to be positioned at various inclinations without compromising stability, ensuring reliable performance across diverse riding conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a first spherical joint hinge, arranged at the lower end of the sleeve and enabling the shaft to oscillate in a longitudinal plane and at the same time to rotate about a fulcrum point
Data Source
AI summary
A variable-trim frame for two-wheeled vehicles has a fork able to connect a handlebar to a hub of a front wheel of the vehicle. A regulating element is provided to rotatably couple the lower portion of the shaft of the handlebar with respective portions of the blades of the fork and destined to make the fork assume a predetermined position in which it is inclined by a relative angle with respect to a perpendicular plane to the ground. A blocking device stabilizes the fork in the predetermined position.